As is the case in most dungeon crawlers, Minecraft Dungeons emphasizes chaotic battles and tough grinds. This is especially true in the super-punishing "Apocalypse Mode," which offers better rewards and experience. This mode will be unlocked following the completion of the 10 main story missions in "Adventure Mode."

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This chaotic romp is meant for beefed-up characters and seasoned vets who know enemy behaviors - as the gameplay allows for few mistakes. With such an intensely tough experience, having the right build can be the difference between life and death. It could also be a tad confusing - as there's no shortage of combinations to choose from in this loot-heavy dungeon crawler. Here are 10 of the strongest, most effective builds to help increase the chances for victory in Apocalypse Mode.

10 Pet Summoner

Summoning familiars in Minecraft Dungeons can be dicey, as the animals that fight by your side can be unpredictable and tough to control. This is only amplified in the crazy grind that is Apocalypse Mode. Still, those that seek to take some of the pressure off their constantly-targetted character may want to try this out, especially in co-op.

There are a number of animals that can be summoned - and complimented with the right bow and artifacts. Equip the Tasty Bone, which summons a wolf, and the llama-conjuring Wonderful Wheat. Use the Totem of Regeneration too, as this will heal animal allies in its vicinity. Finally, the Hunter's Promise ranged weapon will direct these animals to targetted mobs. This can be effective in dealing with many mobs at once, which happens often in Apocalypse Mode.

9 The Swift Rogue

Sometimes speed can be the answer in a dungeon crawler - especially when it comes to the frenzy of MD's Apocalypse Mode. Though this type of build is more vulnerable, astute players will be able to make up for it by their evasion and speed of their attacks.

When it comes to armor here, the Spider Armor Unique set is usually the way to go. The Shock Powder and Fishing Rod incorporate well into this style, as their stuns can allow you to finish off foes before they shake it off. Rapid-fire crossbows are also a great compliment, while the Boots of Swiftness and Light Feather Artifacts further enhance these techniques.

8 Self-Sustainer/Healer

This one tends to be designed more for players teaming up in Apocalypse Mode rather than flying solo, as healing and survival is the focus over brute strength. Still, it can be effective if used under the right circumstances - whether in single or multiplayer.

Great weapons on this front are the Heartstealer (which leeches health from mobs), as well as the Gauntlets - which compliment the healing Radiance Enhancement. Other optimal Enchantments here are Leech and Lifesteal. Good Artifacts to use include the defense-boosting Iron Hide Amulet, the Love Medallion, and the Totem of Regeneration.

7 Close-Range Brawler

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This build will focus on high DPS from close-range while also maintaining some versatility and survivability. In this case - wielding a Claymore and Mercenary Armor is a good idea. This combo ensures some heavy hits while being fairly tanky at the same time.

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The Heavy Crossbow can complement this high damage output and wipe out foes from a distance. The Boots of Swiftness can help balance the inevitable slowness that comes from this heavy gear, while the Deathcap Mushroom will further enhance this brute strength. Finally, the Fishing Rod or Shock Powder stuns mobs, overwhelming them and often ending them before they're able to attack.

6 Elemental Archer

Damage-dealing artifacts and effective bows can make for a deadly combo in Minecraft Dungeons. Alternating between these two sources means players typically won't have to worry about running dry on arrows or Souls.

Even better, there are a number of items that can work in tandem with both these abilities - such as the Soul Crossbow and Voidcaller. These weapons effectively deal damage while also granting Souls to the player. In terms of artifacts, the Corrupted Beacon and Lightning Rod can supplement this elemental, long-range DPS output. The Soul Robe can be equipped to gather more Souls, while Fire Trail and Chilling can be affixed to armor to truly cause some elemental hurt.

5 The Human Tank

Minecraft Dungeons can often be a war of attrition, and the more tanky builds can definitely aid in survival. This is especially the case when facing bosses (like the Arch Illager) and beefier foes, which come in abundance in Apocalypse Mode. Wearing something like the Stalwart Armor or Mercenary Armor (which offers 35% damage reduction) is ideal. The healing and damage-reducing Hero's Armor is another fine choice.

Once again, the Boots of Swiftness can offset some of the clunkiness that comes from these, while a powerful melee weapon will go well with this beefier build. For an extra meatshield, use the Golem Kit, which will summon a similarly tanky pet.

4 Gauntlet Brawler (High, Frequent DPS Output)

This one relates somewhat to the warrior build mentioned earlier - but emphasizes close-range brawling, which allows the player to get in multiple hits at once. It'll effectively pump out high amounts of DPS at a fairly rapid rate. This is achieved via the Gauntlets, which produce combos of 4 alternating punches when used. To further enhance this unique attack, use the Cool Down Enchantments along with the Evocation Robe and the Death Cap Mushroom. This will maximize the output of damage by triggering this boosting Mushroom quicker and more frequently.

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On the long-range front, use rapid-fire and Scatter Crossbows, along with Firework Arrows. These allow for pumping out ample DPS at a distance.

3 Soul-Gathering Mage

One strategy that's proven effective in MD is to lean heavily on offensive magic, along with buffs/debuffs, and damage over time. This can be especially wise to use in Apocalypse Mode, where there will be far more spellcasters that you'll want to answer with powers of your own.

As with most on our list, there's isn't a specific piece of gear required for every slot here. But as a general rule - melee weapons like the Soul Knife and Soulbow (which siphon Souls when used), are ideal, as are Enchantments like Leeching and Weakening. This can consistently feed key artifacts like the Health Synergy, and the beam-blasting Corrupted Beacon.

2 Explosive Long-Range Ranger

This build allows for some explosive power - especially when it comes to long-range attacks. It relies on heavy DPS output but focuses on range rather than melee. First, it's a good idea to use any ranged weapon that shoots multiple projectiles at a rapid rate, such as the Scatter Crossbow.

To enhance this, the Death Cap Mushroom, Firework Arrows, and Shock Powder are good options on the Artifact front. Fuse Bolt, Multishot, and Rapid Fire can make these barrages even more devastating. Cool Down and Swiftfooted can be affixed to armor to work with these traits. Meanwhile, the inevitable pile-up of approaching mobs can be staved off by large melee weapons like the Great Hammer or Claymore.

1 Elemental Damage-Over-Time And Regen Fighter

Some of MD's most effective builds are those that rely on a diversity of abilities and strengths. This includes weapons and armor that can simultaneously deal damage over time, while also buffing/healing the player and allowing them to survive more easily.

A good example can be found from this YouTuber, who showcases a deadly and versatile build with varying Enchantments. The poison-triggering Nightmare's Bite can be used, for instance, which offers both damage with the Swirling Enchantment and healing with Radiance. Meanwhile, the Light Feather can allow better movement and survivability, and the Deathcap Mushroom further rounds things out, increasing attack and movement speed.

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