Does the Corruption or Hallow Spread Faster in Terraria? A Comprehensive Guide

The question of whether the Corruption or Hallow spreads faster in Terraria is a common one, especially among players venturing into Hardmode for the first time. The simple answer is: neither. All three grass variants, including the Crimson, spread at the same rate. However, the mechanics surrounding their spread can often create the perception that one is faster than another. Let’s delve deeper into the nuances of biome spread in Terraria to fully understand how each works. While they grow at the same rate initially, the Hallow can overtake Crimson, despite them having the same spread speed initially.

Understanding Biome Spread in Terraria

Before we discuss any perceived speed differences, it’s crucial to understand the fundamental mechanics of biome spread in Terraria. In both pre-Hardmode and Hardmode, Corruption, Crimson, and Hallow biomes spread by converting nearby blocks. This process primarily involves:

• Grass: Transforming normal grass into their respective biome variants.
• Stone: Converting stone blocks into Ebonstone (Corruption), Crimstone (Crimson), or Pearlstone (Hallow).
• Sand: Changing sand into Ebonsand (Corruption), Crimsand (Crimson), or Pearlsand (Hallow).
• Ice: Transforming snow and ice into their respective biome variants (Purple Ice for Corruption, Red Ice for Crimson, and Pink Ice for Hallow).
• Mud: Spreading the respective biome to mud blocks.

Initially, before defeating the Wall of Flesh, the spread is relatively slow and mostly confined to grass and thorny bushes for Corruption and Crimson. However, upon entering Hardmode, the spread becomes incredibly aggressive. These biomes will begin to spread across many block types and at a faster rate until Plantera is defeated.

Hardmode and the Acceleration of Spread

The most significant shift in biome spread speed occurs when Hardmode is triggered by defeating the Wall of Flesh. At this point, the Corruption, Crimson, and Hallow can spread rapidly through various blocks. This includes sand, mud, stone, and even other types of grass. This is why most players have difficulty managing the world immediately after defeating the Wall of Flesh.

Plantera’s defeat introduces another critical change. It reduces the overall spread rate of these biomes by 50%, giving players an easier time managing and controlling their world.

The Hallow’s Unique Advantage

While the Corruption and Crimson spread at the same rate initially and only differ by items and aesthetics, the Hallow possesses a unique property: it can overwrite Crimson. This is an essential point when considering the speed at which biomes can spread. Although all three spread at the same speed and rate as each other, the fact that the Hallow will overtake Crimson is important to note. This makes it seem as if the Hallow is spreading more effectively. It’s not that it’s faster but its ability to take over other biome blocks makes it effective at replacing other biomes over time.

Frequently Asked Questions About Biome Spread

To give you an even better understanding of the mechanics behind biome spread, here are some frequently asked questions:

How far can Corruption and Hallow spread?

Corrupt and Crimson variants can grow 6 tiles in all directions, and spread their biome up to three blocks away. However, this spread can be contained with physical barriers like wood or clay, which they cannot convert.

Why does Corruption seem to spread so fast in Hardmode?

The increased speed of the biome spread comes when you enter Hardmode by defeating the Wall of Flesh. These biomes can now spread through various blocks. Defeating Plantera slows the overall spread speed by 50%.

Does breaking Demon Altars spread Corruption?

Yes, each time you destroy a Demon or Crimson Altar, there is a 2/3 chance that a single random stone block in the Cavern layer is converted to either Ebonstone/Crimstone or Pearlstone. This facilitates the spread of both evil and Hallow biomes in the underground.

Can NPCs live in the Hallow?

Yes, unlike the Corruption and Crimson, NPCs can happily live in Hallow biomes. It’s even a good idea to have your base in the Hallow as it can prevent the evil biomes from taking over your house.

Can the Hallow take over the desert?

Yes, the Hallow can form a Hallowed Desert. It replaces the sand with Pearlsand and normal Cacti with “hallowed” cacti. This transformation only happens in Hardmode, unless you use the Clentaminator.

How can I stop the spread of Corruption and Hallow early on?

You can dig 3-tile wide trenches on the edges of biomes. When these trenches are lined with non-corruptible tiles like wood, they create a quarantine zone. You can also use the Clentaminator in Hardmode to purify corrupted blocks.

Is it possible to have 0 Corruption in Terraria?

Yes, but it takes a lot of time and effort, especially in Hardmode. The Clentaminator is a powerful tool to remove these biomes.

Do sunflowers stop the Corruption?

Yes, sunflowers prevent biome spread on the two tiles directly beneath them. They also reduce a given area’s Corruption by 5 tiles.

Is Crimson better than Corruption?

It is subjective. Corruption is generally considered easier, while the Crimson is harder but offers stronger benefits and gear, especially in Hardmode.

Will the Hallow take over the Crimson?

Yes, the Hallow can overwrite Crimson blocks, giving the perception of spreading faster, as both have an equal spread speed.

Do crystal shards count as Hallow?

No, crystal shards do not spread the Hallow. They only emit a small glow.

Can you stop the Hallow from spreading?

Yes, if a Hallow vein does not spread near evil biomes or has become large enough, the Hallow will not spread further.

Can the Hallow be purified?

Yes, you can use Vile Powder or Unholy Water to purify the Hallow. These items convert Hallow blocks back to their normal forms.

Do pylons work in the Hallow?

The Forest Pylon will not work in a Hallow biome. Pylons are biome-specific, meaning you can only use the respective biome-specific pylons in their respective biomes.

Can the Hallow spread through snow?

Yes, in Hardmode, these biomes can spread through the snow. They generate Purple, Red, and Pink Ice Blocks respectively, but they cannot spread through snow blocks.

Conclusion

Understanding the mechanics behind biome spread in Terraria can often seem challenging. While all three biomes spread at the same rate, the Hallow’s ability to overtake the Crimson often creates the perception that it is faster, while still spreading at the same rate as Crimson and Corruption. By properly understanding each mechanic, you’ll be more prepared for the challenges that await you in Hardmode. Remember, patience and the appropriate tools are key to managing and controlling your world’s biome spread.