How do I make the Tax Collector NPC move in Terraria?

To make the Tax Collector NPC move into your world in Terraria, you need to follow a specific process involving the Underworld biome and a special item called the Tax Collector's Wallet. The Tax Collector is a unique NPC because he doesn't spawn naturally like most other NPCs. Instead, you must find and rescue him from the Underworld. Here's a detailed explanation of the mechanics, step-by-step instructions, and important tips to help you successfully bring the Tax Collector into your game.

First, you need to locate the Tax Collector in the Underworld. He appears as a Tortured Soul, a rare enemy that spawns in the Underworld biome. The Tortured Soul looks like a ghostly figure with chains, and it behaves like a standard enemy, attacking you on sight. However, unlike other enemies, you don't want to kill the Tortured Soul. Instead, you need to use a Purification Powder on it to transform it into the Tax Collector. Purification Powder can be purchased from the Dryad NPC for 75 copper coins each. Make sure you have at least one Purification Powder in your inventory before heading to the Underworld.

To prepare for this task, you should ensure you have adequate gear for exploring the Underworld. The Underworld is a dangerous biome filled with powerful enemies like Fire Imps, Bone Serpents, and Lava Slimes. It's recommended to have at least Molten-tier armor or better, as well as weapons like the Night's Edge or a ranged weapon such as the Phoenix Blaster. Additionally, bring plenty of healing potions, a good pickaxe for mining Hellstone, and accessories like Obsidian Skull or Lava Waders to protect yourself from lava. A Grappling Hook or similar tool is also useful for navigating the terrain.

Once you're ready, head to the Underworld and start searching for the Tortured Soul. This enemy is rare, so you may need to spend some time exploring and defeating other enemies while waiting for it to spawn. When you find the Tortured Soul, approach it carefully and use the Purification Powder on it. This will transform it into the Tax Collector, who will then become an NPC. The Tax Collector will thank you and immediately move into an available house in your world. If you don't have a suitable house prepared, he will wait until you build one.

It's important to note that the Tax Collector has specific housing requirements like other NPCs. He needs a room with walls, a light source, a table, a chair, and a door. Make sure you have an empty house ready before transforming the Tortured Soul to avoid delays. Additionally, the Tax Collector's happiness is influenced by his biome and neighbors. He prefers the Snow biome and likes to live near the Mechanic, Goblin Tinkerer, or Princess NPCs. Keeping him happy will reduce the prices of his services, which include collecting taxes from other NPCs to give you coins.

A common mistake players make is killing the Tortured Soul instead of using Purification Powder. If you accidentally kill it, you'll need to wait for another one to spawn, which can take time. Another mistake is not preparing adequately for the Underworld. The biome is dangerous, and without proper gear, you may struggle to survive long enough to find the Tortured Soul. Always bring healing items and defensive accessories to make the process smoother.

For advanced players, you can optimize the process by using Battle Potions and Water Candles to increase enemy spawn rates. This will make it easier to find the Tortured Soul. Additionally, you can create a small arena in the Underworld with platforms and campfires to improve your survivability while waiting for the enemy to appear. If you're playing in a multiplayer world, coordinate with friends to cover more ground and increase your chances of finding the Tortured Soul quickly.

In terms of resource requirements, you'll need at least one Purification Powder, which is cheap and easy to obtain from the Dryad. However, the real challenge lies in preparing for the Underworld. You'll need strong armor, weapons, and accessories, as well as healing potions and other consumables. If you're early in the game and haven't reached the Underworld yet, focus on progressing through the game's tiers until you're ready to tackle this biome.

In summary, to make the Tax Collector move into your world, you need to find the Tortured Soul in the Underworld, use Purification Powder on it, and provide a suitable house. Prepare adequately with strong gear and healing items, and avoid common mistakes like killing the Tortured Soul. With patience and preparation, you'll successfully recruit the Tax Collector and benefit from his tax-collecting services.