What are the best weapons for a summoner build in Terraria?

In Terraria, a summoner build focuses on using minions and sentries to deal damage while the player avoids direct combat. This playstyle requires careful planning and progression to maximize the effectiveness of your summons. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to build and optimize a summoner character.

To start, summoners rely on summon weapons, which call minions or sentries to fight for them. These weapons are unique because they donÔÇÖt require the player to attack directly. Instead, the minions automatically target enemies within their range. Summoners also benefit from armor sets and accessories that increase minion count, damage, and defense. Early in the game, summoners are limited in options, but as you progress, you gain access to powerful weapons and gear.

Early game summoners should focus on obtaining the Finch Staff, which is a starter summon weapon found in Living Wood Chests in Living Trees. This staff summons a small bird that attacks enemies. Another early option is the Slime Staff, which is rare but can drop from slimes. While these weapons are weak compared to later options, they are essential for starting your summoner journey. Pair these with basic armor like the Flinx Fur Coat, which increases minion damage.

As you progress, youÔÇÖll want to upgrade your armor. The Bee Armor, crafted from Bee Wax dropped by the Queen Bee boss, is a great mid-game option. It increases minion count and damage, making your summons more effective. For weapons, the Hornet Staff, also dropped by the Queen Bee, is a strong choice. It summons hornets that shoot stingers at enemies. Another good option is the Imp Staff, crafted from Hellstone Bars, which summons imps that fire fireballs.

In Hardmode, summoners gain access to more powerful gear. The Spider Armor, crafted from Spider Fangs dropped by Black Recluses in the Spider Caves, is a great early Hardmode set. It increases minion count and damage significantly. For weapons, the Spider Staff and Queen Spider Staff are excellent choices. The Spider Staff summons spiders that latch onto enemies, while the Queen Spider Staff summons a stationary spider that shoots webs at nearby foes.

Later in Hardmode, youÔÇÖll want to aim for the Tiki Armor, purchased from the Witch Doctor during a Blood Moon. This armor provides a substantial boost to minion count and damage. For weapons, the Pirate Staff, dropped by the Pirate Invasion, and the Optic Staff, crafted from lenses and souls, are strong options. The Pirate Staff summons pirates that attack enemies, while the Optic Staff summons twin eyes that fire lasers.

Endgame summoners should aim for the Stardust Armor, crafted from Stardust Fragments dropped by the Stardust Pillar. This armor provides the highest minion count and damage bonuses. The Stardust Dragon Staff and Stardust Cell Staff are the best summon weapons. The Stardust Dragon Staff summons a dragon that grows longer as it deals damage, while the Stardust Cell Staff summons cells that split into smaller cells upon hitting enemies.

Accessories are crucial for summoners. The Papyrus Scarab, crafted from the Hercules Beetle and Necromantic Scroll, increases minion damage and knockback. The Summoner Emblem, dropped by the Wall of Flesh, boosts summon damage. The Pygmy Necklace, purchased from the Witch Doctor, increases minion count. Other useful accessories include the Celestial Shell, which provides various stat boosts, and the Avenger Emblem, which increases overall damage.

Buff potions are also important. The Summoning Potion increases minion count, while the Bewitching Table, found in Dungeons, provides a similar effect. Other useful potions include the Wrath Potion, which increases damage, and the Endurance Potion, which reduces damage taken.

Common mistakes include neglecting defense and mobility. Summoners are fragile, so itÔÇÖs important to prioritize accessories that increase movement speed and defense, such as the Lightning Boots and Ankh Shield. Another mistake is not managing minion count effectively. Always ensure you have the maximum number of minions summoned, as this significantly increases your damage output.

Advanced techniques include using sentries alongside minions. Sentries like the Ballista Rod and Explosive Trap Rod can provide additional damage and crowd control. Combining these with minions creates a powerful defense against enemies and bosses. Another technique is using the Nurse NPC strategically during boss fights. By placing her nearby, you can quickly heal during intense battles.

Resource management is key. Always gather materials for potions and craftable items. Farming bosses like the Queen Bee and Pirate Invasion can provide essential drops for summoner gear. Preparation is crucial for boss fights, so stock up on potions, build arenas with platforms and campfires, and ensure your gear is optimized.

In summary, a summoner build in Terraria requires careful progression through armor, weapons, and accessories. Focus on increasing minion count and damage, prioritize defense and mobility, and use buffs and sentries to enhance your effectiveness. With the right preparation and strategy, a summoner can become one of the most powerful classes in the game.