Elden Ring's Starting Classes: A Ranked Guide from Worst to Best
Every journey in Elden Ring begins with a class selection, and there are ten distinct options to choose from. These classes differ subtly in stats and starting equipment. This guide ranks them from least desirable to most.
Table of Contents
- Best Elden Ring Starting Classes, Ranked
- Does Your Starting Class Matter in Elden Ring?
- What Is the Easiest Class for Beginners?
While the Vagabond and Wretch are generally considered the top two, several other classes offer compelling reasons for consideration. Each class possesses unique strengths, detailed in the ranking below.
10. Bandit
The bottom three classes are largely interchangeable, but the Bandit stands out negatively. Its low starting level (5) and reliance on Dexterity (a relatively weak stat) coupled with subpar equipment make it an unappealing choice.
9. Confessor
Confessors lack the versatility of other classes. Faith is a challenging stat to build effectively early on, and the starting equipment doesn't synergize well with early-game Faith builds or damage output.
8. Prisoner
Similar to the Bandit, the Prisoner is an inferior version of Dexterity/Intelligence builds. Its low survivability and less-than-ideal starting weapons make it a poor choice compared to better alternatives for these stat focuses.
7. Warrior
Among Dexterity options, the Warrior isn't terrible, starting with two swords. However, superior Dexterity choices exist. While boasting the highest base Dexterity, it falls short by a single point from the soft cap, and its gear doesn't justify its selection. Still, it's a better starting point than the preceding three.
6. Prophet
Faith-based starting classes present significant challenges. If a Faith build is desired, the Prophet is the most viable option. However, its equipment pales in comparison to other classes. Its effectiveness hinges on acquiring strong Faith weapons.
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5. Hero
The top four classes are markedly superior. The Hero offers advantages, starting with a Battle Axe, 16 Strength, and a helpful Ash of War. However, low Dexterity hinders meeting minimum stat requirements, and a better Strength-focused class exists.
4. Samurai
This is the optimal Dexterity starting class. Its excellent armor and the exceptional Uchigatana (a high-damage weapon with excellent scaling and bleed potential) make it a strong contender.
3. Astrologer
Players focusing on magic or Intelligence should choose the Astrologer. Its superior early-game spellcasting capabilities, 16 Intelligence at level 6, and appropriate equipment make it ideal for mage builds or those transitioning to Intelligence/Strength builds.
2. Wretch
The Wretch begins at level one with balanced stats (10 in each). Its decent club and effective Ash of War are assets. However, its low level and lack of armor create a challenging start for new players. It's less effective for single-stat builds but excels for highly customized builds or those planning to respec.
1. Vagabond
The Vagabond is the best starting class, regardless of experience. Its excellent early-game stat distribution, superior weapon, and durable armor make it a versatile and strong choice. Its stat spread allows for easy respeccing or adaptation to various builds.
Does Your Starting Class Matter in Elden Ring?
Unless min-maxing is a priority, the starting class's impact is minimal. While the Bandit presents a tougher early game, stat allocation and build customization eventually outweigh initial differences. Even in PvP, the advantage of a fully optimized build is negligible except at the highest levels of play.
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.
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