How do I prepare for a Goblin Army invasion in Terraria?

Preparing for a Goblin Army invasion in Terraria requires careful planning, resource management, and strategic combat preparation. The Goblin Army is a mid-game event that can occur randomly after you have broken at least one Shadow Orb or Crimson Heart and have at least 200 health. It can also be triggered manually using a Goblin Battle Standard, crafted with 10 Tattered Cloth and 5 Wood at a Loom. The invasion consists of multiple waves of Goblin enemies, including Goblin Peons, Goblin Thieves, Goblin Sorcerers, and Goblin Archers, culminating in the appearance of the Goblin Summoner, who drops valuable loot.

To prepare for the invasion, you should first ensure you have a strong base of operations. Building a fortified area with walls, platforms, and traps can help you manage the incoming waves of enemies. Create a multi-layered defense with platforms at different heights to give yourself mobility and vantage points. Place traps like Dart Traps, Spear Traps, or Super Dart Traps connected to pressure plates or timers to deal passive damage to enemies. Lava moats can also be effective, but be cautious as they can destroy dropped items.

Next, focus on your equipment and weapons. By the time the Goblin Army spawns, you should have access to at least Gold or Platinum armor, but better options like Shadow or Crimson armor are ideal. Weapons like the Minishark, Space Gun, or a strong melee weapon like the Blade of Grass or Fiery Greatsword are excellent choices. Ranged weapons are particularly effective due to their ability to hit multiple enemies from a distance. Magic users should aim for weapons like the Water Bolt or Demon Scythe, while summoners can use the Imp Staff or Slime Staff if available. Always carry healing potions, such as Lesser Healing Potions or better, and consider crafting Ironskin, Regeneration, and Swiftness potions to boost your survivability and mobility.

Resource management is crucial. Stockpile ammunition like Musket Balls or Arrows if you are using ranged weapons. Gather materials for potions and ensure you have enough coins to reforge your gear for better stats. If you are using magic, collect Mana Crystals to increase your mana pool. Additionally, set up a Nurse NPC near your battle area so you can quickly heal during the fight.

During the invasion, prioritize targeting the Goblin Sorcerers and Goblin Archers first, as they deal significant ranged damage. Use your platforms to stay mobile and avoid being overwhelmed. If you have traps set up, lure enemies into them to maximize their effectiveness. Keep an eye on your health and retreat to the Nurse if necessary. The Goblin Summoner, who appears in later waves, is a high-priority target due to her powerful attacks and valuable drops like the Shadowflame Hex Doll or Shadowflame Bow.

Common mistakes to avoid include underestimating the Goblin Army's strength and not preparing adequately. Relying solely on melee combat can be risky, as you may get swarmed. Avoid fighting in open areas without cover, as this makes you an easy target for ranged enemies. Additionally, do not forget to repair or replace traps if they break during the fight.

Advanced techniques include using heart statues or star statues wired to timers to provide health or mana regeneration during the battle. You can also create a dedicated arena with honey pools, campfires, and heart lanterns to boost your regeneration. If you have access to explosives, consider using grenades or dynamite to clear large groups of enemies quickly.

In terms of class-specific strategies, ranged characters should focus on maintaining distance and using piercing weapons like the Minishark or Molten Fury. Mages should use area-of-effect spells like the Water Bolt or Demon Scythe to handle groups. Melee fighters should use weapons with wide swings or projectiles, such as the Fiery Greatsword or Thorn Chakram. Summoners should rely on their minions to deal damage while staying mobile.

By following these steps and strategies, you can effectively prepare for and defeat the Goblin Army invasion, earning valuable rewards and progressing further in Terraria.