All Elden Ring Starting Classes, Ranked from Worst to Best

Embarking on your *Elden Ring* journey begins with selecting one of ten starting classes, each offering unique stat distributions and equipment. This ranking explores each class, from least to most advantageous.

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

----------------------------------------

While the Vagabond and Wretch often top class rankings, several others offer compelling advantages. Let's delve into a detailed breakdown of each.

10. Bandit

The Bandit occupies the bottom tier. Its low starting level (5) and reliance on the comparatively weak Dexterity stat, coupled with subpar initial equipment, make it a less-than-ideal choice.

9. Confessor

Confessors fall short due to their limited early-game offerings. Faith, their primary stat, requires significant investment before becoming truly effective, and their starting equipment doesn't synergize well with early-game Faith builds.

8. Prisoner

Similar to the Bandit, the Prisoner is an inferior version of other Dexterity/Intelligence builds. Its fragility and less-than-optimal weaponry make it a less attractive option for players seeking these stat combinations.

7. Warrior

Among Dexterity-focused classes, the Warrior isn't terrible, starting with two swords. However, superior Dexterity options exist. While possessing the highest base Dexterity, falling just short of the soft cap, its gear doesn't fully justify its selection.

6. Prophet

Faith-based classes present challenges, but the Prophet is the most viable. Its spells offer decent utility, though its equipment pales in comparison to others. With strategic Faith weapon acquisition, it can prove useful.

Related: Best Keepsake to Choose in Elden Ring

5. Hero

The top four classes stand out, but the Hero holds its own. Its starting Battle Axe and 16 Strength offer strong early-game damage potential, enhanced by its Ash of War. However, low Dexterity hinders meeting minimum stat requirements, and a superior Strength-focused option exists.

4. Samurai

The Samurai emerges as the best Dexterity-based starting class. Its exceptional armor and the high-performing Uchigatana, boasting excellent scaling and bleed potential, make it a formidable choice.

3. Astrologer

Aspiring mages or Intelligence-focused players should choose the Astrologer. Its superior early-game spellcasting capabilities, 16 Intelligence at level 6, and well-suited equipment solidify its position.

2. Wretch

The Wretch starts at level 1 with balanced stats (10 in each). Its club and Ash of War are decent, but its lack of armor and low starting level present a challenging beginning for newcomers. While less suitable for dedicated stat builds, its flexibility makes it ideal for those who plan to respec or experiment with diverse builds.

1. Vagabond

For both seasoned and novice players, the Vagabond reigns supreme. Its well-rounded stat distribution, excellent starting weapon, and durable armor make it a consistently strong choice. Its adaptability allows for easy respeccing or transitioning into various builds.

In short, the Vagabond is an excellent starting point for a successful *Elden Ring* experience.

Does Your Starting Class Matter in Elden Ring?

Unless you're heavily focused on min-maxing, your starting class's impact is relatively minor. While classes like the Bandit might present initial difficulties, the ability to freely allocate stats later mitigates the impact of initial stat choices. Even with suboptimal initial choices, you can still build a powerful character.

Furthermore, min-maxing's advantages are often negligible, especially in PvP, unless you're competing at the highest levels.

What Is the Easiest Class for Beginners?

For newcomers, the Vagabond is the recommended starting class. Its straightforward melee combat allows players to quickly grasp *Elden Ring*'s mechanics and build confidence.

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