Could someone explain this archetype to me and am I missing something or is it just a straight up upgrade to the basic Summoner? I've been dabbling with the thought of making one and would like some advice on how the people here would go about making one as best as possible.
Yep, it's one of the more questionably balanced ACG archetypes for sure. Take it, grab the ever popular slumber hex, or a free metamagic feat, or evil eye, or channel energy... because why not? You're not really giving up anything good if your eidolon is always summoned.
It gives up it's Spelllike to summon monster as a standard for hexes. It's arguably less utility. I say it balances the summoner a bit better while giving the potential for a better supporter.
Is there any Spirit in particular that is better than others as a choice? I was contemplating Bones or Battle, Bones would be fun for having undead minions as well as my Eidolon. I like Battle as well but I dont see my caster being much of a combatant herself.
Lore, because of access to non-class spells.