How to Light a Pentagram in Phasmophobia: 1 Minute to Master the Pentagram Lighting Techniques

In Phasmophobia, lighting a pentagram is an intriguing and risky task that can significantly influence your ghost-hunting investigation. The pentagram (officially called the Summoning Circle) is a cursed possession found in several maps. When you light the pentagram correctly, it will force the ghost to appear, making it valuable for completing objectives or gathering evidence, though it comes with high risk. Here’s a step-by-step guide, infused with a designer’s perspective to enhance your gameplay atmosphere:

1. Locate the Pentagram: The Summoning Circle randomly spawns in certain locations inside houses or larger maps. Look for a large red pentagram painted on the ground, surrounded by five red candles.
2. Gather Your Tools: You’ll need a lighter. Having a camera or EMF reader is also helpful to quickly collect evidence or a photo of the ghost.
3. Team Positioning and Safety: Before lighting, coordinate with teammates. Set up strategic positions in the room to create an effective observation and escape plan—this is crucial for maximizing safety and data collection, just like planning sightlines in a functional room layout.
4. Lighting the Candles: Use the lighter to ignite each of the five candles on the pentagram. Approach a candle, press the action key (default: F on PC) while the lighter is equipped. Lighting all five will immediately summon the ghost into the center of the circle.
5. Be Prepared for the Aftermath: Once summoned, the ghost will be temporarily trapped. Take this opportunity for photos or readings. Soon after, a cursed hunt will begin, and the ghost will be able to attack. Plan escape routes—a good room layout can be the difference between survival and being caught.

As a designer, I urge you to think spatially when approaching this challenge. Consider how the room’s furniture can provide cover or create bottlenecks for the ghost—and remember, a well-thought-out approach is key in both interior design and paranormal investigations!

Tips 1:

Pre-light all candles except one, finish preparations (like crucifixes or smart hiding spots), and have someone ready to snap crucial evidence. Lighting the final candle triggers the event.

FAQ

Q: Where can the Summoning Circle appear in Phasmophobia?

A: It spawns in random locations on small and medium maps, such as basements or attics in houses like Tanglewood or Willow Street House.

Q: What happens after lighting the last candle of the pentagram?

A: The ghost is summoned and temporarily trapped, but soon afterward a cursed hunt automatically starts, so stay alert!

Q: Can you leave the house once the pentagram is active?

A: Exiting immediately after lighting it is possible, but once the cursed hunt starts, all exits are locked until the hunt is over.

Q: What equipment should I bring for this task?

A: Bring a lighter, camera (for photos), EMF reader, and smudge sticks or crucifix for safety. Consider your exit strategy just like in tight room layouts.

Q: Will lighting the pentagram always trigger a hunt?

A: Yes, it always results in a cursed hunt, so be prepared and never light it unless your team is ready!