For conquering the Destroyer in Master Mode as a melee character, the most effective strategies often revolve around weapons that can hit multiple segments, pierce, or provide consistent area damage to deal with both the boss and its numerous Probes.
Top Melee Weapon Choices
While several melee weapons can contribute to defeating the Destroyer, two stand out for their exceptional utility and damage output in Master Mode:
- Shadowflame Knife: This weapon is a superb choice for the Destroyer. Its unique ability allows it to bounce off the Destroyer's segments, hitting the boss and its Probes multiple times with a single throw. This multi-hit potential dramatically increases damage output, making it highly efficient against the Destroyer's long body and its accompanying minions. The knife's projectiles are fast and can easily tag targets, ensuring consistent damage.
- Yoyos (with Yoyo Bag): A yoyo setup becomes incredibly powerful when combined with the Yoyo Bag accessory. The Yoyo Bag is crucial as it significantly expands the yoyo's attacking area, allowing you to hit numerous segments of the Destroyer simultaneously. Furthermore, the wide coverage provided by a yoyo with the Yoyo Bag excels at eliminating the constant stream of heart-dropping Probes without requiring direct targeting, ensuring you can maintain focus on the main boss while passively clearing the minions for critical healing and invincibility frames. Good yoyos to consider would be those available after defeating one mechanical boss or crafted from Hallowed Bars (e.g., Yelets).
Essential Melee Accessories and Strategy
Beyond the weapon itself, certain accessories and strategic considerations are paramount for melee success against the Destroyer in Master Mode:
- Yoyo Bag: (If using yoyos) As mentioned, this accessory is absolutely vital for maximizing yoyo effectiveness against the Destroyer, turning them into highly efficient crowd control and single-target damage tools.
- Melee Speed and Damage Boosts: Accessories that increase melee speed, damage, and critical strike chance (e.g., Mechanical Glove, Avenger Emblem, Warrior Emblem, Destroyer Emblem) are always beneficial.
- Defense and Mobility: Given Master Mode's difficulty, robust defense and high mobility are critical. Wings, Master Ninja Gear (for dashing), and defensive accessories like the Cross Necklace (for extended invincibility after being hit) can greatly improve survivability.
- Arena Design: A multi-layered arena with platforms can help you dodge the Destroyer's charges and manage Probe spawns more effectively. Healing sources like campfires and heart lanterns are also recommended.
- Potion Buffs: Don't underestimate the power of potions. Iron Skin Potion, Regeneration Potion, Swiftness Potion, and the melee-specific Wrath/Rage Potions (depending on your world's evil biome) are essential for maximizing your chances.
By focusing on weapons that provide multi-target damage or exceptional area coverage, supported by crucial accessories and strategic preparation, you can effectively tackle the Destroyer in Master Mode as a melee player.
