All Elden Ring Starting Classes, Ranked from Worst to Best

Elden Ring's 10 Starting Classes Ranked: From Worst to Best

Every Elden Ring journey begins with a class selection, and there are 10 distinct options. These classes differ subtly in stats and equipment. This ranking assesses them from least to most effective.

Table of Contents

• Best Elden Ring Starting Classes, Ranked
• Does Your Starting Class Matter in Elden Ring?
• What Is the Easiest Class for Beginners?

The Vagabond and Wretch are top contenders, though other classes present compelling arguments. Each class possesses unique strengths, detailed below.

10. Bandit

The bottom three classes are interchangeable, but the Bandit stands out negatively. Its low starting level (5) and primary focus on Dexterity (a relatively weak stat) coupled with subpar equipment make it an undesirable choice.

9. Confessor

Confessors lack the overall utility of other classes. Faith is a challenging stat to develop early on, and the 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-ideal starting weapons make it a less attractive option for those seeking a Dexterity or Intelligence-focused playstyle.

7. Warrior

Among Dexterity options, the Warrior isn't terrible, starting with two swords. However, superior Dexterity-based choices exist. While possessing the highest base Dexterity, only marginally approaching the soft stat cap, its gear doesn't justify its selection. Still, it surpasses the previous three as a starting build.

6. Prophet

Faith-based starting classes are generally difficult. If one must be chosen, the Prophet is the most viable. Its spells are decent, but the equipment lags behind others. However, with strategic acquisition of Faith weapons, the Prophet can prove effective.

Related: Best Keepsake to Choose in Elden Ring

5. Hero

The top four classes are significantly superior. The Hero offers considerable advantages: a Battle Axe, 16 Strength, and a useful Ash of War, ideal for early-game combat. However, low Dexterity hinders meeting minimum stat requirements, and a better Strength-based class exists.

4. Samurai

The best readily available Dexterity class. Its excellent armor and the Uchigatana (a high-damage, bleed-inducing weapon with great scaling) make it a strong contender.

3. Astrologer

The ideal starting point for mage builds or Intelligence-focused play. Its ability to spam early-game spells, 16 Intelligence at level 6, and suitable equipment make it a top choice. It also transitions well into Intelligence/Strength builds.

2. Wretch

The Wretch begins at level 1 with 10 points in each stat and a decent club with a strong Ash of War. Its lack of armor and low level presents a challenging start for newcomers. While suboptimal for single-stat builds, it's the best option for flexible builds or respeccing.

1. Vagabond

Regardless of experience level, the Vagabond is the optimal starting class. Its balanced stat distribution, excellent weapon, and durable armor make it exceptionally versatile. Its stat spread facilitates easy respeccing or transitioning to various builds.

Choosing the Vagabond ensures a strong foundation for success.

Does Your Starting Class Matter in Elden Ring?

Unless min-maxing is a priority, the starting class's impact is minimal. While the Bandit presents a tougher early game, long-term stat allocation allows for any desired build, regardless of initial class. The difference between a "wrong" choice and an optimized build is often negligible. Even in PvP, perfectly optimized builds offer only a minor advantage, unless competing against top-tier players. Choose the class that aesthetically appeals to you.

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.