Choosing a class in Elden Ring can feel like deciding which flavor of ice cream to commit to for the rest of your life. But don’t sweat it too much. Unlike many RPGs, your class in Elden Ring is just a starting point. You’ll shape your character’s destiny as you progress. Let’s break down the best classes for both beginners and advanced players to help you find your footing in this vast and perilous world.
Best Beginner Classes
Vagabond (Melee Starter)
Think of the Vagabond as your classic knight in shining armor. This class is well-rounded with decent stats across the board, making it a great pick for those new to the game. You start with a solid shield and can use a variety of weapons and armor, making it easy to adapt to different playstyles.
Pros:
- Well-balanced stats
- Highest Vigor (15) compared to all other classes
- Good starting gear
- Versatile in weapon and armor use
Cons:
- Limited magic capabilities without significant leveling - Aracane: 7, lowest compared to all other classes
Astrologer (Magic Starter)
For those who prefer spell-slinging, the Astrologer is your go-to. This class boasts high intelligence, allowing you to use some powerful spells early on. Plus, you get a backup sword for those pesky close encounters.
Pros:
- High intelligence for powerful spells
- Highest Mind (15) and Intelligence (16) compared to all other classes
- Equipped with a sword for emergencies
- Great for pure magic builds
Cons:
- Fragile in close combat
- Requires careful mana management
- Lowest Strength (8) and Vigor (9) compared to all other classes
Prisoner (Hybrid Starter)
If you want a bit of everything, the Prisoner is a solid choice. With good strength, dexterity, and intelligence, this class allows you to wield both spells and swords effectively. It's got higher endurance and vigor, making it a bit tankier than other hybrid options.
Pros:
- Balanced for both melee and magic
- Higher endurance and vigor
- Versatile playstyle
Cons:
- Less durable than melee-focused classes
- Needs good armor early on
- Lowest Faith (8) compared to all other classes
Samurai (Dexterity Starter)
The Samurai is a fantastic pick if you want to inflict ailments and prefer a nimble playstyle. Starting with the Uchigatana and a long bow, you can deal significant damage from both melee and range right from the get-go.
Pros:
- Highest Endurance (13) compared to all other classes
- Starts with Uchigatana and long bow
- Effective at inflicting blood loss
Cons:
- Slightly weaker than Vagabond in terms of raw defense
- Requires skillful dodging and positioning
Best Advanced Classes
Hero (Strength Specialist)
The Hero is for players who love hitting hard and asking questions later. This class is all about brute strength, allowing you to wield heavy weapons and deal massive damage.
Pros:
- Highest Strength (16) of all classes for dealing the most powerful melee attacks
- Great for tanky builds
Cons:
- Lowest Dexterity (9), Intelligence (7) and Mind (9) compared to all other classes
- Less versatile in weapon choices
Warrior (Dexterity Specialist)
If you prefer a more refined melee approach, the Warrior is your class. With high dexterity, you can master complex weapons like spears and curved swords, making your combat style both stylish and deadly.
Pros:
- Highest Dexterity (16) for specialized weapons
- Agile and quick in combat
Cons:
- Requires precise timing and skill
- Less raw power than strength-focused classes
Bandit (Ranged Specialist)
The Bandit is your go-to for a ranger-like playstyle, equipped with a bow and daggers. High arcane stats make it useful for discovering hidden secrets and using unique weapons later in the game.
Pros:
- Highest Arcane (14) for unique items
- Effective with bows and stealth attacks
Cons:
- Fragile and reliant on parrying skills
- Requires strategic play to maximize effectiveness
Prophet (Faith Specialist)
For those who want to delve deep into incantations, the Prophet is ideal. This class focuses on Faith, allowing you to use powerful incantations like Flame Sling and Lightning Strike.
Pros:
- Highest Faith (16) for strong incantations
- Great for a pure caster build
Cons:
- Incantations require high-level spells found later in the game
- Limited melee capabilities
- Lowest Endurance (8) and Intelligence (7)
Wretch (Challenge Specialist)
The Wretch is for those who love a challenge. Starting with nothing but a club and at level 1, this class is a blank slate. It’s perfect for players who want to craft their own path from scratch.
Pros:
- Total flexibility in stat distribution
- Ultimate challenge for experienced players
Cons:
- Extremely difficult start (starting level 1)
- Very basic starting gear
Remember, no matter which class you pick, Elden Ring’s world is your oyster. You can grind runes, level up, and even respec your character later in the game. Choose a class that matches your initial playstyle, and don’t be afraid to experiment and evolve your character as you journey through this mysterious and challenging world. Happy adventuring!