Every adventure in *Elden Ring* kicks off with choosing a starting class, and there are 10 intriguing options at your fingertips. Each class offers unique stats and gear, shaping your journey from the get-go. Let’s dive into the rankings of these starting classes from worst to best, exploring why some are better suited for your quest than others.
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
- Vagabond Does Your Starting Class Matter in Elden Ring? What Is the Easiest Class for Beginners?
Best Elden Ring Starting Classes, Ranked
Screenshot by The Escapist. The two standout starting classes in Elden Ring are the Vagabond and the Wretch, each offering distinct advantages. However, a few others could also make a strong case for the top spots. Below, we rank all 10 classes, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses.
10. Bandit
The Bandit ranks last, not just for its low starting level of 5, but also because it primarily boosts Dexterity—a stat that isn't particularly strong early on. Coupled with subpar equipment, the Bandit struggles to make a compelling case for itself.
9. Confessor
The Confessor falls short due to its reliance on Faith, a stat that's challenging to leverage effectively without specific items. Its starting gear doesn't synergize well with early Faith builds, making it less appealing for beginners.
8. Prisoner
Similar to the Bandit, the Prisoner is a less effective version of other Dexterity and Intelligence builds. Starting off quite vulnerable, players seeking these stats can find more robust options elsewhere.
7. Warrior
Among Dexterity-focused classes, the Warrior isn't the worst choice, especially since it starts with dual swords. However, better Dexterity options exist, and while it offers a high base Dexterity, the gear doesn't quite justify the pick.
6. Prophet
Faith-based classes can be tricky to start with, but the Prophet is the best of the bunch. It comes with decent spells, though its equipment lags behind other classes. If you know where to find good Faith weapons, the Prophet can still be a solid choice.
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5. Hero
The Hero class shines with its high Strength and a Battle Axe, making it a formidable choice for early-game combat. However, its low Dexterity can be a hurdle when meeting weapon requirements, and there's a better Strength-focused class available.
4. Samurai
The Samurai is the top pick for Dexterity enthusiasts in Elden Ring. With excellent armor and the powerful Uchigatana, which boasts great scaling and bleeding capabilities, it's a fantastic choice for those who love swift, deadly combat.
3. Astrologer
For players interested in mage builds or leveraging Intelligence, the Astrologer is the go-to class. It excels at casting early-game spells and starts with a solid 16 Intelligence at level 6. Its equipment is well-suited for magic users, making it ideal for those looking to master the arcane arts.
2. Wretch
Starting at level one with balanced stats across the board, the Wretch offers flexibility for those who want to tailor their build from scratch. While its low level and lack of armor make it challenging for beginners, it's perfect for players planning to respec or experiment with different builds.
1. Vagabond
The Vagabond is the ultimate starting class in Elden Ring, suitable for both newcomers and veterans. With a balanced stat distribution, a powerful weapon, and solid armor, it's an excellent choice for any build. Its versatility makes it easy to pivot into different playstyles as you progress.
When in doubt, the Vagabond is your safest bet for a successful journey through the Lands Between.
Does Your Starting Class Matter in Elden Ring?
In Elden Ring, your starting class doesn't significantly impact your long-term success unless you're aiming to min-max your build. Even starting with a less optimal class like the Bandit won't hinder you much in the grand scheme. You'll eventually allocate points to your preferred stats and can respec into any build you desire. In PvP, min-maxing offers only a slight advantage, noticeable only against top-tier players.
So, if a class like the Bandit appeals to you aesthetically, feel free to choose it without worry.
What Is the Easiest Class for Beginners?
For complete newcomers to Elden Ring, the Vagabond is the recommended starting class. Its straightforward melee combat allows you to quickly grasp the game's mechanics, making it an ideal choice for finding your footing in the expansive world of the Lands Between.
Elden Ring is available now on PC, Xbox, and PlayStation.
