Elden Ring's 10 Starting Classes Ranked: From Worst to Best
Every journey in Elden Ring begins with a starting class, and you've got 10 distinct options to choose from. These classes differ slightly in stats and initial equipment. This ranking assesses them from least to most favorable.
Table of Contents
- Best Elden Ring Starting Classes, Ranked
- Does Your Starting Class Matter in Elden Ring?
- What Is the Easiest Class for Beginners?
10. Bandit
The bottom three classes are largely interchangeable, but the Bandit stands out negatively. Starting at a low level (5), its primary stat is Dexterity, a relatively weak attribute. Coupled with subpar equipment, this class is generally unappealing.
9. Confessor
Confessors offer limited advantages compared to other classes. Faith is a challenging stat to develop early on, requiring specific item acquisition. Furthermore, the Confessor's starting equipment doesn't synergize well with early-game builds or Faith-based damage.
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 less attractive choice. Players seeking Dexterity or Intelligence will find superior alternatives.
7. Warrior
Among Dexterity options, the Warrior isn't terrible, beginning with two swords. However, better Dexterity-focused classes exist. While possessing the highest base Dexterity, only edging closer to the soft cap by a single point, its gear doesn't justify its selection. Nevertheless, it surpasses the preceding three for starting builds.
6. Prophet
Faith-based starting classes present inherent challenges. If forced to choose, the Prophet is the preferable option. Its spells are decent, but equipment lags behind other classes. However, with strategic Faith weapon acquisition, the Prophet can prove viable.
Related: Best Keepsake to Choose in Elden Ring
5. Hero
The top four classes in this ranking are demonstrably superior. The Hero boasts significant advantages, starting with a Battle Axe and 16 Strength, ideal for overpowering early-game foes. Its Ash of War enhances damage output. However, low Dexterity hinders meeting minimum stat requirements, and a superior Strength-based class exists.
4. Samurai
This is the premier Dexterity starting class in Elden Ring. Its armor is exceptional, and its starting weapon, the Uchigatana, is among the best. The Uchigatana boasts excellent scaling, impressive damage, and effective bleed potential.
3. Astrologer
Players focused on mage builds or Intelligence should begin with the Astrologer. No other class matches its early-game spellcasting capabilities, starting with 16 Intelligence at level 6. Its ample room for stat improvement and suitable equipment make it a strong choice. It's ideal for pure mage builds and adaptable for Intelligence/Strength hybrids.
2. Wretch
The Wretch starts at level one with 10 points in each stat and a decent club with a powerful Ash of War. However, its low level and lack of armor create a difficult initial experience for new players. It's less effective for players committed to a single stat build. But for those aiming for highly customized builds or planning respecs, the Wretch is unparalleled.
1. Vagabond
For both novices and experienced players, the Vagabond is the optimal starting class in Elden Ring. Its stat distribution is excellent for early-game builds, its weapon is superb, and its armor remains useful throughout the game. Its stat spread facilitates easy respeccing or shifting to other builds.
Choosing the Vagabond ensures a strong start.
Does Your Starting Class Matter in Elden Ring?
Unless you're meticulously optimizing a build, your starting class's impact is minimal. While the Bandit might present early difficulties, ultimately, you'll invest in desired stats, achieving your intended build regardless of your initial choice. The difference from a fully optimized build might only be a few points.
Min-maxing, even in PvP, is ultimately inconsequential. A perfectly optimized build provides a slight PvP advantage, barely noticeable except among the highest-skilled players.
Therefore, if the Bandit appeals aesthetically, choose it.
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.
