Elden Ring Starting Classes: Worst to Best Ranked

Every journey in Elden Ring kicks off with a choice of starting class, and there are 10 distinct options to consider. Each class offers unique starting stats and equipment, influencing your early gameplay experience. Here's a detailed ranking of these classes from worst to best.

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
  1. Vagabond
• Does Your Starting Class Matter in Elden Ring?
• What Is the Easiest Class for Beginners?

Best Elden Ring Starting Classes, Ranked

The top two starting classes in Elden Ring are the Vagabond and the Wretch, but other classes also have strong cases for high rankings. Below is a comprehensive ranking of all 10 classes, each with its unique strengths and weaknesses.

10. Bandit

The Bandit ranks at the bottom due to its low starting level of 5 and a focus on Dexterity, which is less impactful early on. Coupled with subpar equipment, this class struggles to make a strong impression from the start.

9. Confessor

The Confessor's reliance on Faith, a challenging stat to build early without specific items, hampers its effectiveness. The starting equipment doesn't synergize well with Faith-based builds, making it a less appealing choice.

8. Prisoner

Similar to the Bandit, the Prisoner offers a weaker version of Dexterity and Intelligence builds. Starting with limited durability and less optimal weapons, it falls short compared to other classes with similar stat focuses.

7. Warrior

While not the best Dexterity class, the Warrior starts with dual swords and the highest base Dexterity. However, the equipment doesn't justify its selection over other Dexterity options, though it remains better than the previous three classes.

6. Prophet

Among Faith-based classes, the Prophet is the most viable option. It comes with decent spells, but its equipment pales in comparison to other classes. Knowledge of Faith weapon locations can enhance its appeal.

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5. Hero

The Hero excels with a strong starting Battle Axe and high Strength, ideal for tackling early-game foes. However, its low Dexterity can hinder meeting weapon requirements, and there's a superior Strength-focused class available.

4. Samurai

The Samurai is the top Dexterity class, boasting excellent armor and the formidable Uchigatana, which offers great scaling and bleed capabilities. This class is a solid choice for Dexterity-focused players.

3. Astrologer

For those interested in mage builds or leveraging Intelligence, the Astrologer is unbeatable. With a high starting Intelligence and powerful spells, it's perfect for magic users and adaptable to Strength-Intelligence hybrid builds.

2. Wretch

Starting at level one with balanced stats, the Wretch offers flexibility for players who want to tailor their build or respec later. However, its lack of armor and low starting level make it challenging for beginners.

1. Vagabond

The Vagabond stands out as the best starting class for both new and veteran players. It offers an excellent stat distribution, a powerful weapon, and durable armor, making it versatile for various builds and easy to respec if needed.

When unsure, the Vagabond is a reliable choice to ensure a successful start in Elden Ring.

Does Your Starting Class Matter in Elden Ring?

In Elden Ring, the starting class doesn't significantly impact your long-term gameplay unless you're aiming to min-max your build. Even starting with a less optimal class like the Bandit won't hinder you in the long run, as you can eventually adjust your stats to suit your preferred build. In PvP, min-maxing offers only a marginal advantage, noticeable only at the highest levels of play. So, if a class resonates with you aesthetically, feel free to choose it.

What Is the Easiest Class for Beginners?

For complete newcomers to Elden Ring, the Vagabond is the recommended starting class. Its straightforward melee combat mechanics help new players get accustomed to the game's systems as they learn the ropes.

Elden Ring is available now on PC, Xbox, and PlayStation.