How to use the Summoning Circle in Phasmophobia – What does it do?

Phasmophobia is a spooky ghost-hunting game in which players must determine the type of spirit haunting a location and gather evidence of its activities. There are many methods you can use to complete these objectives, but my personal favorite is the summoning circle. However, finding and using a summoning circle isn't terribly easy, especially for those unfamiliar with its mechanics. If you're looking to come face-to-face with a spirit, then here's how to use the Summoning Circle in Phasmophobia.

How the Summoning Circle works in Phasmophobia

In order to activate the Summoning Circle, players need to light each of the five candles, with each candle reducing the player's sanity by 16%. Once lit, the ghost will fully materialize. The only exception to this is the Shade, which appears as a transparent shadow. A lighter is the perfect tool to light all five candles for the Summoning Circle, but you can also use an already-lit candle.

The front door of the building will lock and, after five seconds of being motionless, the ghost initiates a cursed hunt on the spot. While the ghost is motionless, players can easily take photos of it; the Summoning Circle can also be photographed without activation for experience.

Once activated, the Summoning Circle cannot be activated again and typically counts as a ghost event. Activating the Summoning Circle and the cursed hunt that follows is dangerous, but leads to better rewards. I advise lighting four of the five candles and preparing yourself for the hunt before continuing. Keep in mind that a cursed hunt cannot be stopped, not even by a Crucifix.

Related: How to use the Music Box in Phasmophobia – What does it do?

How to find Summoning Circles in Phasmophobia

The Summoning Circle itself always spawns on the floor with five candles surrounding it. Bigger rooms will have a greater chance of it spawning, but it is possible for it to spawn in smaller rooms as well. Keep an eye out for a five-pointed star, though it does have a 1 in 7 chance of spawning as the chosen item for the cursed possessions on a map.

For more Phasmophobia guides, check out How to use the Haunted Mirror in Phasmophobia – What does it do? and Is Phasmophobia on Xbox? on Pro Game Guides.