Elden Ring's Ten Starting Classes: A Ranked Guide
Every journey in Elden Ring begins with a class selection, offering ten distinct options. These classes differ subtly in stats and equipment. This guide ranks them from least to most favorable.
Table of Contents
Best Elden Ring Starting Classes, Ranked | 10. Bandit | 9. Confessor | 8. Prisoner | 7. Warrior | 6. Prophet | 5. Hero | 4. Samurai | 3. Astrologer | 2. Wretch | 1. Vagabond | Does Your Starting Class Matter in Elden Ring? | What Is the Easiest Class for Beginners? | Best Elden Ring Starting Classes, Ranked
10. Bandit
The bottom three classes 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 make it an unappealing choice.
9. Confessor
Confessors offer limited advantages. Faith is a challenging stat to develop early on, and the starting 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 low survivability and less-than-ideal starting weapons make it a poor selection.
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, offering proximity to the soft stat cap, the gear doesn't justify its selection. Still, it surpasses the preceding three.
6. Prophet
Faith-based classes present challenges. The Prophet, however, is the best of the bunch. Its spells are decent, but its equipment lags behind others. With strategic Faith weapon acquisition, the Prophet becomes a viable option.
Related: Best Keepsake to Choose in Elden Ring
5. Hero
The top four classes are clearly superior. The Hero boasts advantages, starting with a Battle Axe and 16 Strength, ideal for early-game combat. Its Ash of War enhances damage. However, low Dexterity hinders meeting minimum stat requirements, and a better Strength option exists.
4. Samurai
This is the premier Dexterity starting class. Its excellent armor and starting weapon, the Uchigatana (with great scaling and bleed potential), make it a strong contender.
3. Astrologer
Players favoring mage builds or Intelligence should choose the Astrologer. Its early-game spellcasting capabilities, 16 Intelligence at level 6, and suitable equipment make it a top choice for Intelligence-focused builds, or even for those transitioning to Strength/Intelligence hybrids.
2. Wretch
The Wretch begins at level 1 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 challenge for new players. While potentially suboptimal for single-stat builds, its adaptability makes it excellent for highly customized builds or respeccing.
1. Vagabond
Regardless of experience level, the Vagabond is the best starting class. Its stat distribution is optimal for early-game builds, its weapon is excellent, and its armor remains useful throughout the game. Its versatility allows for easy respeccing or build adaptation.
Choosing the Vagabond ensures a strong start.
Does Your Starting Class Matter in Elden Ring?
Unless min-maxing is a priority, the starting class's impact is minimal. While the Bandit might present early difficulties, stat allocation ultimately determines build progression. Even with a suboptimal class choice, the difference from a fully optimized build is negligible. Min-maxing offers minimal advantages, even in PvP.
Aesthetic preference should also influence your choice.
What Is the Easiest Class for Beginners?
For newcomers, the Vagabond is recommended. Its straightforward melee combat facilitates learning Elden Ring's mechanics.
Elden Ring is available now on PC, Xbox, and PlayStation.
