Top Xenoblade Chronicles X Classes Revealed

If you're diving into Xenoblade Chronicles X Definitive Edition and feeling swamped by the array of classes, don't worry—this guide is here to help you navigate through the best choices. With the game's extensive range of classes and the time required to master new weapon skills, it can be challenging. However, rest assured that any class can be effective, though some stand out more than others. If you stick with the starting class, you're in good hands as it's one of the most versatile in the game.

Our Xenoblade Chronicles X Definitive Edition classes guide highlights the top five classes that are worth your time and effort.

Drifter

Xenoblade Chronicles X nudges you to move away from the Drifter class once you reach rank 10, but it's a mistake to underestimate its potential. Drifter, akin to Shulk from the original Xenoblade Chronicles, remains a powerhouse throughout the game despite having a more limited skill set. It provides access to a wide range of debuff and offensive arts, including those that can stagger and topple foes, and even heal, reducing your reliance on party members.

Drifter wields assault rifles for potent ranged attacks and knives for formidable melee combat, making it adaptable to any combat scenario. Moreover, it boasts the highest number of skill slots, which makes it an excellent choice for customization even after experimenting with other classes.

Full Metal Jaguar

Elma's class, Full Metal Jaguar, is a high-risk, high-reward option. It thrives when your HP dips below 50%, granting a boost to your critical hit rate. One skill even ensures you stay in this low-HP state by reducing your health upon attacking. The class's Ghost Factory skill helps allies dodge incoming attacks, while Electric Surge unleashes ether damage—a rarity among melee classes. Even its basic skill, Shadowstrike, packs a punch.

Duelist

Duelist is a self-sufficient class that excels in close-quarters combat but is also adept at handling ranged threats. Equipped with a longsword and an assault rifle, it's like an enhanced version of the Drifter's arsenal. Duelists gain access to a variety of useful skills, including Last Stand, which converts your TP into a party-wide TP boost, perfect for setting up powerful attacks.

The Soul of the Samurai skill enhances basic attacks with area-of-effect damage, while True Stream Edge replenishes TP at higher morale levels. But the crown jewel of Duelist's skills is Blossom Dance, which not only staggers enemies for toppling but also bypasses their resistances, making it a game-changer in combat.

Mastermind

For those who relish manipulating enemy behavior rather than just dishing out damage, Mastermind is a stellar choice. While its arts may not be as potent as those of the Duelist, they're invaluable for managing prolonged battles against formidable foes. Mastermind can strip enemies of their buffs and, at level seven, reduce their debuff resistance with every attack. It also offers abilities to boost TP and a capstone art that inflicts the virus effect. Playing Mastermind requires keen attention to the battlefield dynamics, but the payoff is significant.

Galactic Knight

Although often associated with Skell users, Galactic Knight offers much more than Skell-specific perks. It can remove debuffs, heal allies, and deal heavy, specialized damage on its own. Galactic Knights can also reduce their own cooldowns by executing melee combos. For Skell users, it provides abilities that restore appendage HP and boost combat power directly, without any conditions.

By understanding the strengths and nuances of these top classes, you can enhance your gameplay experience in Xenoblade Chronicles X Definitive Edition and tailor your strategy to your preferred playstyle.