What is the best way to increase my summon attack speed in Terraria?

Increasing your summon attack speed in Terraria is a key aspect of optimizing a summoner build, as it allows your minions to deal damage more frequently, making them more effective in combat. To achieve this, you need to focus on specific mechanics, equipment, and buffs that directly or indirectly influence summon attack speed. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to maximize your summon attack speed.

First, itÔÇÖs important to understand the mechanics behind summon attack speed. Summon attack speed is influenced by several factors, including the type of minion you use, the accessories and armor you equip, and the buffs you apply. Minions have a base attack speed, but this can be enhanced through various means. The primary way to increase summon attack speed is by equipping accessories and armor that provide bonuses to minion damage and attack speed. Additionally, certain buffs and potions can further enhance your minionsÔÇÖ performance.

To start, youÔÇÖll want to focus on obtaining the right armor sets. The Obsidian Armor is one of the best early-game options for summoners, as it provides a significant boost to minion damage and attack speed. This armor set is crafted using Obsidian, Silk, and Shadow Scales or Tissue Samples, which are obtained from the Eater of Worlds or Brain of Cthulhu. Once you progress further, the Stardust Armor, obtained from the Stardust Pillar in the endgame, is the ultimate choice for summoners. It not only increases minion damage but also provides a set bonus that summons a powerful Stardust Guardian, which attacks independently and benefits from your attack speed boosts.

Next, youÔÇÖll need to equip the right accessories. The Papyrus Scarab is a must-have accessory for summoners, as it increases minion damage, knockback, and attack speed. This accessory is crafted using a Hercules Beetle and a Necromantic Scroll, both of which are obtained from the Hardmode Dungeon. Another important accessory is the Summoner Emblem, which increases minion damage and can be obtained from the Wall of Flesh. Additionally, the Pygmy Necklace, which increases the number of minions you can summon, indirectly boosts your overall attack speed by allowing more minions to attack simultaneously.

Buffs and potions are also crucial for maximizing summon attack speed. The Summoning Potion increases the number of minions you can summon, while the Bewitching Table, found in Dungeons, provides a temporary boost to your minion capacity. The Wrath Potion increases your overall damage, including minion damage, and the Flask of Ichor can be used to reduce enemy defense, making your minions more effective. Additionally, the Well Fed buff, obtained from consuming food items, provides a small but useful boost to all stats, including minion attack speed.

When it comes to minion selection, some minions naturally have faster attack speeds than others. For example, the Blade Staff, obtained from Queen Slime, has a very high attack speed and benefits greatly from attack speed boosts. The Sanguine Staff, obtained from the Dreadnautilus during a Blood Moon, is another excellent choice due to its high damage and attack speed. In the endgame, the Stardust Dragon Staff and Stardust Cell Staff are top-tier options, with the Stardust Dragon being particularly effective against single targets due to its rapid attacks.

One common mistake to avoid is neglecting your accessories and buffs. While armor and weapons are important, accessories and buffs can significantly enhance your minionsÔÇÖ performance. Make sure to always have the right accessories equipped and use buffs before engaging in tough battles. Another mistake is not upgrading your minions as you progress. Early-game minions like the Imp Staff are useful, but they become obsolete in Hardmode. Always aim to upgrade to more powerful minions as soon as possible.

Advanced techniques include combining summoner gear with other class-specific items to create a hybrid build. For example, using the Terraprisma, a powerful summon weapon obtained from defeating the Empress of Light in daylight, alongside melee or magic weapons can provide additional damage output. Additionally, using the Celestial Shell or Celestial Stone accessories can provide a boost to all stats, including minion attack speed, making them valuable additions to your loadout.

Resource requirements and preparation are also important. To craft the Obsidian Armor, youÔÇÖll need to gather Obsidian from the Underworld and Silk from Cobwebs. For the Stardust Armor, youÔÇÖll need to defeat the Stardust Pillar and collect Stardust Fragments. Accessories like the Papyrus Scarab require you to farm the Hardmode Dungeon for the necessary components. Always ensure you have enough materials and resources before attempting to craft or upgrade your gear.

In summary, increasing your summon attack speed in Terraria involves a combination of the right armor, accessories, buffs, and minion selection. Focus on obtaining the Obsidian Armor early on and upgrade to the Stardust Armor in the endgame. Equip accessories like the Papyrus Scarab and Summoner Emblem, and use buffs like the Summoning Potion and Wrath Potion. Avoid common mistakes like neglecting accessories and not upgrading minions, and consider advanced techniques like hybrid builds. With the right preparation and strategy, you can maximize your summon attack speed and become a formidable summoner in Terraria.