All Elden Ring Starting Classes, Ranked from Worst to Best

Embarking on your *Elden Ring* adventure begins with choosing one of ten starting classes, each subtly different in stats and equipment. This ranking reveals the best and worst, helping you select the perfect class for your journey.

Table of contents

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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

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While the Vagabond and Wretch consistently top the lists, other classes offer compelling reasons for consideration. Let's delve into the strengths and weaknesses of each.

10. Bandit

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

9. Confessor

The Confessor suffers from a lackluster early game. Faith, its primary stat, is challenging to develop initially, and its starting equipment doesn't synergize well with early-game Faith builds or damage output.

8. Prisoner

Similar to the Bandit, the Prisoner offers a weaker version of Dexterity/Intelligence builds. Its fragility and less-than-optimal weapon selection make it less appealing than other options.

7. Warrior

Among Dexterity-focused classes, the Warrior holds its own, starting with two swords. However, superior Dexterity options exist. While boasting the highest base Dexterity, nearing the soft cap, its gear doesn't justify its selection over stronger alternatives.

6. Prophet

Faith-based classes present a steeper early-game challenge. The Prophet, however, is the best of the bunch. Its spells are decent, though its equipment lags behind others. With strategic weapon acquisition, the Prophet can prove viable.

Related: Best Keepsake to Choose in Elden Ring

5. Hero

The top four classes clearly stand out. The Hero offers significant advantages: a Battle Axe, 16 Strength, and a helpful Ash of War, all contributing to effective early-game combat. However, low Dexterity hinders meeting minimum stat requirements, and a superior Strength option exists.

4. Samurai

The Samurai emerges as the best Dexterity-based starting class. Its excellent armor and the exceptional Uchigatana—a weapon boasting impressive scaling, damage, and bleed—make it a formidable choice.

3. Astrologer

Aspiring mages or Intelligence-focused players should begin with the Astrologer. Its unparalleled early-game spellcasting capabilities, 16 Intelligence at level 6, and suitable equipment solidify its position. Its adaptability also allows for transitions to Strength/Intelligence builds.

2. Wretch

The Wretch starts at level one with balanced stats (10 in each). Its decent club and Ash of War offer potential. However, its low level and lack of armor pose a significant challenge for new players. While not ideal for single-stat builds, it's perfect for flexible builds or respeccing later.

1. Vagabond

The Vagabond reigns supreme, regardless of player experience. Its exceptional stat distribution, fantastic weapon, and durable armor make it exceptionally well-rounded. Its versatility allows easy respeccing or adaptation to various builds. For a strong, adaptable starting class, the Vagabond is the clear winner.

Does Your Starting Class Matter in Elden Ring?

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Unless you're focused on highly optimized builds, your starting class's impact is minimal. While the Bandit might present early challenges, the long-term effect is negligible. You'll eventually allocate points to your desired stats, achieving your preferred build regardless of your initial choice. The difference between a "wrong" class and an optimal one is often just a few stat points.

Even min-maxing, including for PvP, has a limited impact. While optimized builds offer a slight advantage, this difference is barely noticeable except at the highest levels of PvP competition.

Ultimately, if a class appeals aesthetically, choose it. The game's flexibility allows for diverse playstyles.

What Is the Easiest Class for Beginners?

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For new players, the Vagabond is recommended. Its straightforward melee combat facilitates learning *Elden Ring*'s mechanics.

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