How to Light the Pentagram in Phasmophobia: Fast-Track Guide to Mastering Pentagram Lighting Techniques

In Phasmophobia, lighting the pentagram (also called the Summoning Circle) is an advanced interaction that can dramatically increase the intensity and stakes of your ghost investigation. Here’s a step-by-step guide for safely and effectively lighting the pentagram in Phasmophobia:

1. Locate the Pentagram: The pentagram is most commonly found in the basement or attic of certain maps. Look for a large red circle on the floor, drawn with an occult design and surrounded by five candles.
2. Prepare Your Equipment: You’ll need a lighter (findable in the truck or inside the map) to interact with the circle. Bringing a camera is also useful, as lighting the pentagram may summon the ghost for a photo opportunity.
3. Coordinate With Teammates: Before lighting, communicate with your team. Lighting all five candles will instantly force the ghost to manifest and begin a Cursed Hunt after a short time (or immediately on Nightmare/Insanity modes), so make sure everyone is ready and has an escape plan.
4. Light the Candles: Equip the lighter, approach the pentagram, and interact with each candle one by one. As each is lit, it will glow. After the fifth candle, the ghost will be summoned to the center of the circle, become visible for a brief period (ideal for taking a ghost photo), and then initiate a hunt.
5. Escape or Hide: As soon as all candles are lit, be prepared to flee or hide. Review hiding spots and exits in advance. The hunt triggered by the pentagram is more dangerous than regular hunts.

Using the pentagram strategically can yield valuable evidence and opportunities, but it does elevate risk. As a designer, I can’t help but notice how the lighting and layout of these unique objects impact gameplay atmosphere. Staging your tools, light sources, and escape routes in an organized manner—just as you would with smart spatial planning for interiors—can make interactions much safer and more successful.

Tips 1:

Always keep a crucifix nearby to prevent accidental hunts if you’re not ready. Check your sanity; lower levels increase risk. Consider using a head-mounted camera and planning backup escape routes.

FAQ

Q: Can you relight the pentagram in Phasmophobia?

A: No, the pentagram can only be lit once per round. After use, it no longer functions.

Q: Does lighting the pentagram guarantee a ghost photo?

A: Lighting the fifth candle will make the ghost appear in the center for a short time, perfect for taking a ghost photo. Be quick!

Q: Will the pentagram always spawn in the same location?

A: No, its appearance is random and depends on the map and RNG for cursed possessions.

Q: What is the safest way to use the pentagram?

A: Prepare escape routes and hiding places in advance. Ensure team readiness before lighting the final candle.

Q: Does lighting the pentagram affect all ghost types the same way?

A: Yes, any ghost will be forced to interact and hunt if the pentagram is fully lit, although some ghosts (like Demon or Revenant) may be more dangerous during hunts.