How do I prepare for a Goblin Invasion in late-game Terraria?

Preparing for a Goblin Invasion in late-game Terraria requires careful planning, as the event can be overwhelming if you are not ready. The Goblin Invasion is a random event that can occur after you have defeated the Goblin Army at least once and have at least one Shadow Orb or Crimson Heart destroyed in your world. In late-game, the invasion becomes more challenging, as the enemies are stronger and more numerous. Here is a detailed guide to help you prepare effectively.

First, understand the mechanics of the Goblin Invasion. The event begins with a message stating, "A Goblin Army is approaching from the east/west!" The goblins will spawn in waves, and you must defeat them to end the invasion. The enemies include Goblin Peons, Goblin Thieves, Goblin Sorcerers, and Goblin Archers, with the Goblin Summoner being the most dangerous. The Goblin Summoner can teleport and summon Shadowflame Apparitions, making her a priority target. The invasion ends when you defeat all waves, and you will receive rewards like the Goblin Battle Standard, which can be used to summon the invasion manually.

To prepare for the invasion, start by building a strong defense. Create an arena near your base with platforms for mobility and walls to block enemy movement. Use traps like Dart Traps, Super Dart Traps, and Flame Traps to deal damage automatically. Place campfires and heart lanterns around the arena for health regeneration. If you have access to them, use heart statues wired to timers for additional healing. Lava pits can also be effective for dealing with weaker enemies, but be cautious as they can destroy dropped items.

Next, gather the necessary resources and craft powerful gear. In late-game, you should have access to high-tier weapons and armor. For melee characters, the Terra Blade or Influx Waver is ideal. Rangers should use the Tsunami or Phantasm with Chlorophyte or Luminite Arrows. Mages can rely on the Razorblade Typhoon or Nebula Blaze, while summoners should use the Stardust Dragon or Terraprisma. Equip accessories like the Ankh Shield, Celestial Shell, and Wings for mobility and defense. Use potions like Ironskin, Regeneration, and Swiftness to boost your stats.

Combat strategies are crucial during the invasion. Focus on eliminating the Goblin Summoner first, as her Shadowflame Apparitions can overwhelm you. Use ranged attacks or spells to take her out quickly. For the other enemies, prioritize the Goblin Sorcerers, as their Chaos Balls can deal significant damage. Use AoE (Area of Effect) attacks to handle groups of enemies efficiently. Stay mobile and avoid getting surrounded by using platforms and grappling hooks.

Avoid common mistakes like underestimating the Goblin Summoner or neglecting your defenses. Ensure your arena is well-lit and has enough space to maneuver. Do not rely solely on traps, as they may not be enough to handle the stronger enemies. Always keep an eye on your health and use healing items when necessary.

Advanced techniques include using minions and sentries to assist in combat. Summoners can deploy multiple minions to deal consistent damage, while other classes can use sentries like the Ballista or Explosive Trap from the Tavernkeep. Additionally, consider using the Nurse NPC for quick healing during the invasion. Place her house near your arena for easy access.

Resource requirements include materials for traps, potions, and gear. Gather wood, stone, and wire for building traps. Farm herbs for potions and mine ores for crafting weapons and armor. Ensure you have enough coins to reforge your accessories for optimal stats.

Class and equipment considerations depend on your playstyle. Melee characters should focus on high defense and close-range damage. Rangers need high mobility and precision. Mages should prioritize mana regeneration and spell damage, while summoners rely on minion count and damage.

In specific scenarios, if you are playing in Expert or Master Mode, the invasion will be even more challenging. Enemies have more health and deal more damage, so ensure your gear is fully upgraded. Use buffs like Endurance and Lifeforce potions to increase survivability.

By following these steps, you can effectively prepare for and survive a Goblin Invasion in late-game Terraria. Focus on building a strong defense, gathering resources, and using the right combat strategies to handle the event with ease.