Vampire Survivors is an isometric action game where players purge a range of evil spirits. Beyond the frantic circle-based combat, there is room for experimentation. Choices about gear influence damage, attack style, character speed, and much more. This guide gathers the most effective builds in the game for players seeking strong, reliable setups.
In Vampire Survivors, the hero attacks enemies automatically, so the player’s task is to select weapons and support items wisely. If you’d rather not tinker, one of the builds discussed here provides a clear path to power and efficiency.
If you’re unsure how to unlock every weapon type, this guide contains a helpful primer on progression and acquisition.
Built for fighting masses of common enemies
The setup described below is designed to wipe out large waves of foes around the hero. Most attacks radiate in a circle, expanding the damage radius and letting monsters struggle to reach the character. The hero often stays safe while dealing continuous damage.
Main weapon:
- Holy Water (Santa Water) — This weapon grants an active shield that keeps ordinary monsters at bay. It synergizes well with Candelabrador and Spellbinder.
- Vandal — Earned by fusing Peachone and Ebony Wings, this weapon shines when paired with Holy Water.
- Explosive Runes (Runeracer) — Strengthens the active shield, pairing powerfully with Holy Water and Vandala.
Main extra weapon:
- Axe — When combined with Candelabrador, it amplifies attack damage.
- Laurel — Knocks back enemies, offering a helpful control option in the early and mid game.
Main accessories:
- Candlestick — Works well with the main weapon to boost overall effectiveness.
- Spell Binder — Increases the effectiveness of holy water and vandal when paired with other items.
- Empty Tome — Raises attack speed, allowing the hero to output more damage per second.
Optional accessories:
- Crown — Accelerates experience gain, benefiting the player across all stages.
- Attractorb — Speeds up gem collection, speeding weapon assembly progress.
- Duplicator — Adds extra projectiles to the main weapon, enhancing output.
Boss fight build
This configuration delivers substantial short-term damage, making it effective against tough opponents and bosses. If an enemy gets too close, the active shield still absorbs damage, helping sustain the hero through perilous engagements.
Main weapon:
- Axe — Delivers heavy blows and is best upgraded to Death Spiral with Candelabrador.
- King Bible — Forms an automated shield that keeps common enemies at a distance. Upgrade to Unholy Vespers via Spellbinder for greater reach.
- Explosive Runes (Runeracer) — Provides reliable extra damage in extended fights.
Additional weapon:
- Laurel wreath (Laurel) — Creates a shield that reduces incoming damage, enhancing survivability in tight spots.
Main accessories:
- Candlestick — Essential to transform the Axe into Death Spiral and to boost attack power in this build.
- Spell Binder — Turns King Bible into Unholy Vespers, increasing overall damage and range.
- Spinach — Significantly increases damage output, helping to finish encounters more quickly.
Optional accessories:
- Crown — Increases experience gained per monster defeated, accelerating progression.
- Empty Tome — Increases projectile speed, helping hit more targets as they spawn.
- Duplicator — Increases the number of projectiles during fights, broadening coverage.
Other guides
All Guides and Tips for Vampire Survivors → (citation: Vampire Survivors community guide)