Every journey through the vast and mysterious world of *Elden Ring* begins with a crucial choice: your starting class. With 10 different options available, each with unique stats and equipment, selecting the right one can significantly influence your early game experience. Here, I'll rank all the starting classes from worst to best, helping you navigate this critical decision.
Table of contents
- Best Elden Ring Starting Classes, Ranked
- Bandit
- Confessor
- Prisoner
- Warrior
- Prophet
- Hero
- Samurai
- Astrologer
- 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 best starting classes are the Vagabond and the Wretch. However, there are compelling arguments for a couple of others to break into the top spots. Each class has its own advantages, and they are all ranked below.
10. Bandit
The Bandit class is often considered the least favorable due to its low starting level of 5 and primary focus on Dexterity, a stat that can be challenging to leverage effectively early on. Coupled with subpar equipment, the Bandit struggles to make a strong case for itself.
9. Confessor
Confessors offer limited benefits compared to other classes. The Faith stat, which the Confessor relies on, requires specific items to become effective, and the starting equipment doesn't synergize well with early builds or enhance Faith-based damage significantly.
8. Prisoner
Similar to the Bandit, the Prisoner is a less optimal choice for those interested in Dexterity and Intelligence builds. Starting with low health and less effective weapons, players seeking to focus on these stats will find better alternatives.
7. Warrior
Among Dexterity-based options, the Warrior isn't a bad choice, starting with dual swords and the highest base Dexterity. However, other classes offer more compelling equipment and stat boosts, making the Warrior a mid-tier option at best.
6. Prophet
Faith-based classes can be tricky to work with, but the Prophet stands out as the best among them. While the starting equipment may not be the strongest, the spells provided are decent, and with the right Faith weapons, the Prophet can still shine.
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5. Hero
The Hero class shines in the second half of the rankings with its strong starting stats, including 16 Strength and a Battle Axe. The Ash of War enhances early-game damage, though the low Dexterity may hinder meeting certain weapon requirements. Despite this, it's a solid choice for Strength-focused builds.
4. Samurai
The Samurai is the top pick for essential Dexterity builds in Elden Ring. With excellent armor and the Uchigatana, a weapon known for its scaling, damage, and bleeding capabilities, the Samurai offers a strong start.
3. Astrologer
For those aiming to play a mage build or utilize Intelligence, the Astrologer is the go-to choice. Starting with 16 Intelligence at level 6, this class excels at casting early-game spells and provides the perfect equipment for mage builds. It's versatile enough to transition into Intelligence and Strength builds as well.
2. Wretch
Starting at level one with 10 points in each stat, the Wretch offers unparalleled flexibility. While the initial lack of armor and low level can be challenging for new players, it's an excellent choice for those looking to tailor their build or respec later.
1. Vagabond
The Vagabond is the best starting class in Elden Ring, suitable for both new and experienced players. With excellent stat distribution, a powerful weapon, and armor that can last throughout the journey, the Vagabond provides a solid foundation for any build. It's easy to pivot or respec, making it an ideal choice for any player.
When in doubt, the Vagabond is a safe and effective pick to ensure a successful start.
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. While certain classes like the Bandit might make the early game more challenging, you can eventually spec into your desired build. Even in PvP, a fully optimized build offers only a marginal advantage, which is hardly noticeable unless you're competing at the highest levels. So, if a class appeals to you aesthetically, feel free to choose it.
What Is the Easiest Class for Beginners?
For complete beginners, the Vagabond is the recommended class. Its straightforward melee combat allows new players to quickly grasp Elden Ring's mechanics and find their footing in the game.
Elden Ring is available now on PC, Xbox, and PlayStation.
