Elden Ring Starting Classes: Worst to Best Rankings

Every run in Elden Ring begins with a choice of starting class, offering 10 different options, each with unique stats and equipment. I’ll rank them from worst to best, providing insights to help you choose the most suitable class for your playstyle.

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

10. Bandit

The Bandit ranks at the bottom due to its low starting level of 5 and a focus on Dexterity, which is less effective early on. Coupled with subpar equipment, it's a challenging choice that's best avoided for most players.

9. Confessor

The Confessor struggles to shine, primarily due to its reliance on Faith, which is difficult to leverage effectively without specific items. Its starting equipment also doesn't synergize well with early Faith builds, making it a less desirable option.

8. Prisoner

Similar to the Bandit, the Prisoner offers a weaker version of Dexterity and Intelligence builds. Starting with lower health and less optimal weapons, it's outclassed by other classes that cater to the same stats.

7. Warrior

Among Dexterity-focused classes, the Warrior stands out with its dual swords and the highest base Dexterity. However, the gear doesn't justify picking it over other options, though it's still better than the classes ranked below.

6. Prophet

Faith-based classes can be tough to start with, but the Prophet offers decent spells and is the best choice within this category. Its equipment might not be the best, but with the right Faith weapons, it can become a viable pick.

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5. Hero

The Hero boasts strong starting advantages, including a Battle Axe and 16 Strength, making it excellent for early-game combat. However, its low Dexterity can make meeting weapon requirements challenging, and there's a better Strength option available.

4. Samurai

The Samurai is the top Dexterity class, featuring excellent armor and the formidable Uchigatana. This weapon scales well, deals high damage, and can inflict bleed, making it a standout choice for Dexterity builds.

3. Astrologer

For those interested in mage builds or leveraging Intelligence, the Astrologer is unbeatable. It starts with 16 Intelligence at level 6, enabling early spell spamming and offering great equipment for mage playstyles. It's also versatile enough to transition into Strength-Intelligence builds.

2. Wretch

Starting at level one with balanced stats, the Wretch offers flexibility for tailored builds or respeccing. While its initial lack of armor and low level can be challenging, it's perfect for players who want to experiment with various builds throughout their journey.

1. Vagabond

The Vagabond is the best starting class overall, suitable for both new and veteran players. It offers balanced stats, a great weapon, and solid armor that can last you throughout the game. Its versatility makes it easy to pivot into any build you desire.

When in doubt, the Vagabond is your safest bet for a successful start in Elden Ring.

Does Your Starting Class Matter in Elden Ring?

Your starting class in Elden Ring has a minimal impact unless you're aiming for a highly optimized build. Even starting with a less favorable class like the Bandit won't hinder your progress significantly in the long run, as you'll eventually tailor your stats to your preferred build. In PvP, even min-maxing offers only a slight edge, which is hardly noticeable unless you're competing at the highest levels. Choose the class that appeals to you aesthetically or thematically.

What Is the Easiest Class for Beginners?

For complete beginners, the Vagabond is the recommended class. Its straightforward melee combat allows you to quickly grasp Elden Ring's mechanics and mechanics, easing your transition into the game.

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