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

Increasing summon damage in Terraria is a key focus for players who choose the summoner class, as it allows you to maximize the effectiveness of your minions and sentries. Summon damage is influenced by several factors, including armor, accessories, buffs, and weapons. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to optimize your summon damage throughout the game.

First, letÔÇÖs discuss the mechanics of summon damage. Summon damage is a stat that directly affects the damage output of your minions and sentries. It is increased by wearing summoner-specific armor, equipping accessories that boost summon damage, and using buffs or potions. Additionally, the number of minions you can summon is determined by your summon capacity, which can also be increased through armor, accessories, and buffs. Summon weapons, such as whips, also play a crucial role, as they not only deal damage but can also enhance your minionsÔÇÖ performance.

To start increasing your summon damage, focus on obtaining summoner armor sets. Early in the game, the Flinx Fur Coat is a good option, as it increases your minion capacity by one. Later, you can craft the Bee Armor after defeating Queen Bee, which further boosts summon damage and capacity. As you progress, aim for the Obsidian Armor, which is crafted using Obsidian and Silk, and provides significant summon damage and whip bonuses. In Hardmode, the Spider Armor is a strong choice, offering increased minion capacity and damage. For endgame, the Stardust Armor is the best summoner set, providing massive summon damage and the ability to summon a powerful Stardust Guardian.

Accessories are another critical component. Equip items like the Summoner Emblem, Papyrus Scarab, and Necromantic Scroll to boost summon damage and capacity. The Pygmy Necklace increases minion count, while the Hercules Beetle enhances summon damage. Reforge these accessories to Menacing for additional damage or Warding for extra defense. The Celestial Shell and Celestial Stone are also excellent choices, as they provide all-around stat boosts, including summon damage.

Buffs and potions are essential for maximizing summon damage. Use the Summoning Potion to increase your minion capacity and the Bewitching Table to temporarily boost it further. The Wrath Potion increases overall damage, while the Flask of Ichor can reduce enemy defense, making your minions more effective. Always keep these buffs active during boss fights or challenging encounters.

Whips are a unique weapon type for summoners. They not only deal damage but also apply special effects to your minions. For example, the Snapthorn increases minion attack speed, while the Firecracker causes minions to deal explosive damage. Use whips strategically to mark enemies, increasing the damage your minions deal to them. The Kaleidoscope and Morning Star are powerful endgame whips that provide significant damage and critical strike bonuses.

When preparing for boss fights or events, ensure you have the right equipment and buffs. For example, during the Pumpkin Moon or Frost Moon events, use the Stardust Dragon staff for its high damage output and multi-target capabilities. Pair it with the Kaleidoscope whip to maximize damage. Always set up a safe arena with platforms, campfires, heart lanterns, and honey pools for regeneration.

Common mistakes to avoid include neglecting defense. While summoners focus on damage, having some defense is crucial for survival. Balance your accessories between damage and defense, and consider using the Worm Scarf or Brain of Confusion for damage reduction. Another mistake is not using whips effectively. Whips are not just for damage; they enhance your minionsÔÇÖ performance, so use them frequently.

Advanced techniques include combining summoner gear with other class accessories for hybrid builds. For example, using the Celestial Emblem alongside summoner accessories can provide both magic and summon damage boosts. Additionally, using the Forbidden Armor set allows you to summon minions while also using magic weapons effectively.

Resource management is important. Gather materials like Obsidian, Spider Fangs, and Stardust Fragments early to craft the best summoner gear. Always keep an eye out for summoner-specific drops from bosses and events.

In summary, increasing summon damage involves a combination of the right armor, accessories, buffs, and weapons. Focus on summoner-specific gear, use whips strategically, and always prepare with buffs and potions. Avoid neglecting defense and experiment with hybrid builds for advanced play. With the right setup, your summoner character can dominate TerrariaÔÇÖs toughest challenges.