Elden Ring's 10 Starting Classes Ranked: From Worst to Best
Every journey in Elden Ring begins with a class selection, offering 10 distinct options. These classes differ subtly in stats and equipment. This ranking assesses them from least to most desirable.
Table of Contents
- Best Elden Ring Starting Classes, Ranked
- Does Your Starting Class Matter in Elden Ring?
- What Is the Easiest Class for Beginners?
The Vagabond and Wretch consistently top the list, though other contenders offer compelling arguments. Each class possesses unique strengths, detailed below.
10. Bandit
The bottom three are largely interchangeable, but the Bandit stands out negatively. Its low starting level (5) and primary focus on Dexterity (a relatively weak stat) combined with subpar equipment render it an undesirable choice.
9. Confessor
Confessors lack the advantages of other classes. Faith is a challenging stat to develop early on, and their initial equipment doesn't synergize well with early-game Faith builds.
8. Prisoner
Similar to the Bandit, the Prisoner is an inferior version of other Dexterity/Intelligence builds. Its fragility and less-than-ideal starting weapons make it a poor choice compared to alternatives.
7. Warrior
Among Dexterity options, the Warrior isn't terrible, starting with two swords. However, superior Dexterity options exist. While possessing the highest base Dexterity, it only offers a single point advantage towards the soft cap, and its gear doesn't justify its selection. Still, it surpasses the preceding three.
6. Prophet
Faith-based classes present challenges. The Prophet, however, is the most viable option. Its spells are decent, but its equipment lags behind others. With strategic Faith weapon acquisition, it can prove effective.
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5. Hero
The top four are clearly superior. The Hero offers significant advantages: a Battle Axe, 16 Strength for early-game dominance, and a helpful Ash of War. However, low Dexterity hinders meeting minimum stat requirements, and a better Strength-focused option exists.
4. Samurai
The best essential Dexterity class. Its armor is excellent, and its starting weapon, the Uchigatana, boasts impressive scaling, damage, and bleed potential.
3. Astrologer
The ideal choice for mage builds or Intelligence-focused gameplay. Its early-game spellcasting capabilities are unmatched, starting with 16 Intelligence at level 6. Its equipment is also well-suited to the class. It can even transition into Intelligence/Strength builds.
2. Wretch
The Wretch starts at level one with 10 points in each stat and a decent club with a strong Ash of War. Its lack of armor and low level pose a significant challenge for new players, making it less desirable for those focusing on a single stat. However, its adaptability makes it ideal for those planning extensive build customization or respeccing.
1. Vagabond
For both novice and experienced players, the Vagabond is the optimal starting class. Its stat distribution excels in early-game builds, offering a fantastic weapon and armor suitable for extended use. Its stat spread facilitates easy respeccing or transitioning to other builds. The Vagabond is a consistently strong choice.
Does Your Starting Class Matter in Elden Ring?
Unless you're meticulously optimizing builds, your starting class's impact is minimal. While the Bandit might present early challenges, the long-term effect is negligible. You'll eventually invest in desired stats, achieving your intended build regardless of the initial choice. Even min-maxing, especially in PvP, offers only a slight, often imperceptible advantage unless competing against top-tier players. Choose a class that appeals aesthetically.
What Is the Easiest Class for Beginners?
For new players, the Vagabond is recommended. Its straightforward melee combat facilitates learning Elden Ring's mechanics.
Elden Ring is available now on PC, Xbox, and PlayStation.
