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Mastering Arachnid Extermination: A Grounded Guide to Spider-Slaying Weapons

So, you’ve found yourself face-to-face with the eight-legged terrors of the backyard in Grounded and are wondering what tool will best turn these predators into resources? The short answer: almost any weapon, when used strategically and with the right upgrades. However, some weapons are undeniably better suited for dispatching spiders than others, depending on the spider type, your skill level, and your current progression in the game. This guide will delve deep into the best options for spider extermination, providing you with the knowledge needed to conquer your arachnophobia and thrive in the miniature world of Grounded.

Understanding Spider Weaknesses and Resistances

Before diving into specific weapons, it’s crucial to understand that not all spiders are created equal. They possess different weaknesses and resistances that directly impact weapon effectiveness. Here’s a breakdown:

Orb Weavers: These common spiders are relatively weak and susceptible to most damage types, making them excellent early-game targets for practice.
Wolf Spiders: Much more aggressive and dangerous, Wolf Spiders require a more strategic approach. While not specifically weak to any damage type, their high health pool demands efficient damage dealing.
Infected Wolf Spiders: These are significantly tougher than their non-infected counterparts and require higher-tier weapons and armor.
Black Widows: The undisputed apex predators of the backyard, Black Widows possess significant resistances to most damage types and immunity to poison. Stabbing weapons are your best bet against these formidable foes.
Diving Bell Spiders: Found underwater in the Koi Pond biome, these spiders require weapons that can be effectively used in aquatic combat.

Top Weapon Choices for Spider Annihilation

Considering these variations, here’s a curated list of weapons, categorized by their effectiveness against different spider types:

Early Game Options

Spikey Sprig: An early-game option that can be used to pierce spiders, however is considered a weak choice overall.
Pebblet Spear: Another early-game option, the Pebblet Spear offers decent range and damage and is effective against Orb Weavers.
Larva Blade: While not exceptionally powerful, its poison effect can slowly whittle down the health of weaker spiders.

Mid-Game Powerhouses

Mosquito Needle: A Tier 2 rapier, the Mosquito Needle’s speed and decent damage make it a solid choice against Wolf Spiders and other medium-threat arachnids.
Spider Fang Dagger: The Spider Fang Dagger has a Tier 2 blade, with stronger damage of 12.5 damage every 3 seconds for 15 seconds.
Black Ant Sword: A reliable all-around weapon with good damage output, especially effective when paired with the right mutations.
Mint Mace: Imbued with the Fresh element, the Mint Mace is particularly useful against Infected Wolf Spiders, dealing extra damage.

Late-Game Domination

Rusty Spear: Despite its unassuming appearance, the Rusty Spear boasts surprisingly high damage and is particularly effective against Black Widows due to their vulnerability to stabbing damage.
Black Ox Crossbow: A powerful ranged weapon that can inflict significant damage from a safe distance.
Club of the Mother Demon: The ultimate melee weapon in the game, the Club of the Mother Demon delivers unparalleled damage and stun potential, making it effective against virtually any enemy, including spiders.
Tiger Mosquito Rapier: Another solid stabbing option, particularly useful against Black Widows due to their weakness against the stabbing type of damage.

Ranged vs. Melee: Choosing Your Combat Style

The decision to engage in ranged or melee combat depends largely on your play style and the specific situation.

Ranged Combat: Offers a safer approach, especially when fighting dangerous spiders like Wolf Spiders or Black Widows. Utilize high ground and ranged weapons like the Black Ox Crossbow to inflict damage from a distance.
Melee Combat: More risky but can be highly effective with the right gear and mutations. Utilize dodging, blocking, and parrying to minimize damage and maximize your offensive output.

Gear and Mutations: Enhancing Your Spider-Slaying Prowess

Your weapon is only one piece of the puzzle. Equipping the right armor and mutations can significantly enhance your effectiveness against spiders.

Armor: Consider armor sets that provide bonuses to stamina regeneration (like Spider Armor) or protection against specific damage types.
Mutations: Equip mutations that increase damage output, stamina regeneration, or poison resistance to gain an edge in combat.

Strategic Tips for Spider Encounters

Observe and Learn: Study the attack patterns of different spider types to anticipate their moves and dodge accordingly.
Exploit the Environment: Utilize the environment to your advantage. Climb rocks, use ziplines, or create barricades to gain a tactical edge.
Prepare for the Fight: Stock up on healing items, repair your weapons, and ensure your armor is in good condition before engaging in a fight.
Teamwork Makes the Dream Work: If playing with friends, coordinate your attacks and support each other to maximize your chances of success.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How many spears does it take to kill a Wolf Spider?

Early game, you’ll use more resources than ideal. Accounts vary, but some players have reported needing around 35 Pebblet Spears to take down a Wolf Spider, however this is a very costly and ineffecient way of killing the spider. It is better to avoid combat until stronger weapon options are obtained.
How many Gas Arrows does it take to kill a Wolf Spider?

Approximately 15-20 Gas Arrows can eliminate a Wolf Spider, even without direct hits, as the gas damage will inflict poison to deal the damage.
What is the hardest spider to kill in Grounded?

The Black Widow is the most challenging spider to kill due to its high health, resistance to most damage types, and immunity to poison.
Are Black Widows weak to anything in Grounded?

Black Widows are most vulnerable to stabbing damage. Weapons like the Rusty Spear, Tiger Mosquito Rapier, and Black Ox Crossbow are effective choices.
Can you outrun a Wolf Spider in Grounded?

Generally, it’s better to fight than flee if a Wolf Spider catches you on flat ground. They are very fast and difficult to outrun.
Can spiders swim in Grounded?

Yes, Diving Bell Spiders are found underwater in the Koi Pond biome and Pond Caves, and they are a major threat in those areas.
Is the Spider Fang Dagger good in Grounded?

The Spider Fang Dagger inflicts significant poison damage, making it a valuable weapon for slowly but surely taking down tougher enemies.
What does Spider Armor do in Grounded?

Spider Armor offers faster stamina regeneration and reduces the stamina cost of attacks. It’s useful for players with aggressive playstyles who want to be able to attack and move rapidly.
Should I kill Orb Weaver Spiders?

Orb Weavers are a valuable resource for early-game players. While they pose a threat, defeating them yields useful materials. However, they are relatively weak and easy to kill.
What is the best weapon against Infected Wolf Spiders in Grounded?

A Mint Mace or Fresh Toenail Scimitar, or any weapon imbued with the Fresh element, is highly effective against Infected Wolf Spiders.
Can the bird be killed in Grounded?

No, the crow cannot be attacked or killed in Grounded. It primarily serves as a source of crafting resources.
What spiders give you fangs in Grounded?

Spider Fangs are obtained by killing either Wolf Spiders or Infected Wolf Spiders.
What is the spider boss in Grounded?

The Hedge Broodmother is a boss spider found deep within the Hedge, and she is meant to be fought sometime after the Black Anthill Lab.
Does difficulty scale in Grounded?

Yes, the game’s difficulty scales based on the number of players in a session and their proximity to creatures.
What is the scariest bug in Grounded?

Many players find spiders, particularly the Orb Weaver and Hedge Broodmother, to be the scariest due to their unpredictable movements and appearance.

Conclusion

Conquering the spider population in Grounded requires a combination of the right weapons, strategic thinking, and a thorough understanding of their weaknesses. By utilizing the information provided in this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to face your fears and dominate the backyard. Remember to adapt your strategy based on the spider type you’re facing and continuously upgrade your gear to stay ahead of the curve. Happy hunting!

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What weapon kills spiders in Grounded?