What are the best NPC pairings for late-game event preparation in Terraria?

In Terraria, preparing for late-game events requires careful planning, especially when it comes to NPC pairings and their happiness. The NPC happiness system directly impacts the prices of items they sell, which can be crucial for stocking up on resources before major events like the Lunar Events, Pumpkin Moon, or Frost Moon. Additionally, happy NPCs provide unique items like the Pylon network, which allows for fast travel between biomes, saving time during event preparation. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to optimize NPC pairings for late-game event preparation.

First, letÔÇÖs discuss the mechanics of NPC happiness. Each NPC has preferred biomes and neighbors. When placed in their preferred biome and near liked or loved neighbors, their happiness increases, leading to discounts on their items and access to Pylons. For example, the Arms Dealer loves the Desert biome and likes the Nurse, while the Nurse prefers the Hallow biome and likes the Arms Dealer. Pairing these two in the Desert or Hallow will maximize their happiness. On the other hand, placing NPCs with disliked or hated neighbors in the wrong biome will decrease their happiness, increasing prices and preventing Pylon sales.

To prepare for late-game events, you should focus on creating multiple Pylon networks across key biomes. This allows you to quickly gather resources, craft items, and defend your base during events. Start by identifying the NPCs you need for crafting and resource gathering. For example, the Goblin Tinkerer is essential for reforging weapons and accessories, while the Mechanic is crucial for wiring traps and defenses. Pair the Goblin Tinkerer with the Dye Trader in the Underground biome, as they like each other and prefer this biome. Similarly, place the Mechanic with the Cyborg in the Snow biome, as they like each other and thrive in this environment.

Next, consider the NPCs who provide combat-related items. The Arms Dealer and Nurse pairing is excellent for stocking up on ammunition and healing items. Place them in the Desert or Hallow biome to maximize their happiness. The Wizard, who sells useful magic items, should be paired with the Golfer in the Forest biome, as they like each other and prefer this biome. This setup ensures you have access to powerful magic weapons and accessories for late-game events.

Resource management is critical during event preparation. Stockpile materials like Chlorophyte, Luminite, and Hallowed Bars for crafting powerful weapons and armor. Use the Pylon network to quickly travel between biomes and gather resources. For example, set up a Pylon in the Jungle biome to farm Chlorophyte and Life Fruits, and another in the Ocean biome to gather Fishron drops and other aquatic resources. This saves time and ensures you have the materials needed for crafting and reforging.

Combat strategies also play a significant role in event preparation. Equip your character with the best weapons and accessories for your chosen class. For melee, the Terra Blade and Solar Eruption are excellent choices, while ranged players should use the Phantasm or Tsunami. Mages can rely on the Last Prism or Nebula Blaze, and summoners should use the Stardust Dragon or Terraprisma. Reforge your weapons and accessories to their best modifiers, such as Legendary for melee weapons or Ruthless for summon weapons. Use buff potions like Ironskin, Regeneration, and Endurance to enhance your survivability during events.

Advanced techniques include building arenas with traps, heart statues, and honey pools to maximize your combat efficiency. Use platforms and teleporters to create mobility during boss fights. For example, during the Lunar Events, build a long platform with campfires, heart lanterns, and star statues to regenerate health and mana. Place traps like spiky ball traps and flame traps to deal additional damage to enemies. Use teleporters to quickly move between sections of the arena, avoiding enemy attacks.

Common mistakes to avoid include neglecting NPC happiness, which can lead to higher prices and lack of Pylons. Avoid placing NPCs in cramped or poorly lit houses, as this can prevent them from moving in or reduce their happiness. Also, donÔÇÖt forget to stockpile resources and craft essential items before events, as running out of materials mid-event can be disastrous.

In summary, optimizing NPC pairings for late-game event preparation involves understanding the happiness system, creating Pylon networks, and strategically placing NPCs in their preferred biomes with liked neighbors. Stockpile resources, craft powerful gear, and build effective arenas to handle the challenges of late-game events. By following these strategies, youÔÇÖll be well-prepared to tackle the toughest events Terraria has to offer.