Elden Ring: Starting Class Optimization for a Head Start

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

Every journey in Elden Ring begins with a starting class, and you've got 10 distinct options to choose from. These classes differ slightly in stats and initial equipment. This ranking lists them from least to most desirable.

Table of Contents

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

10. Bandit

The bottom three classes are fairly 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 offer limited advantages. Faith is a challenging stat to develop early on, requiring specific item acquisition. Furthermore, their starting equipment doesn't synergize well with early-game builds or Faith-based damage.

8. Prisoner

Similar to the Bandit, the Prisoner is an inferior version of other Dexterity/Intelligence builds. Its low survivability and less-than-ideal starting weapons make it a poor choice. Players seeking Dexterity or Intelligence will find superior alternatives.

7. Warrior

Among Dexterity options, the Warrior isn't terrible, starting with two swords. However, better Dexterity options exist. While boasting the highest base Dexterity, it only edges closer to the soft stat cap by a single point, and its gear doesn't justify its selection. Nevertheless, it's a better starting build than the preceding three.

6. Prophet

Faith-based starting classes are generally difficult to manage. If forced to choose one, the Prophet is the best option. Its spells are decent, but its equipment pales in comparison to others. However, with access to suitable Faith weapons, the Prophet can still be viable.

Related: Best Keepsake to Choose in Elden Ring

5. Hero

The top four classes are clearly superior. The Hero possesses significant advantages, starting with a Battle Axe and 16 Strength, ideal for overwhelming early-game foes. Its Ash of War also boosts damage. However, low Dexterity hinders meeting minimum stat requirements, and a better Strength option exists.

4. Samurai

This is the best readily available Dexterity starting class. Its excellent armor and exceptional starting weapon, the Uchigatana (with great scaling, impressive damage, and bleed potential), make it a strong contender.

3. Astrologer

Players focused on mage builds or Intelligence should begin with the Astrologer. No other class can spam early-game spells as effectively, starting with 16 Intelligence at level 6. It offers ample room for stat improvement and perfect starting equipment. It's also adaptable for Intelligence/Strength builds.

2. Wretch

The Wretch begins at level one with 10 points in each stat and a decent club with a strong Ash of War. However, its low level and lack of armor create a challenging start for new players. It's less suitable for players committed to a single stat build. However, for those aiming for a custom build or planning to respec, the Wretch is the game's best option.

1. Vagabond

Regardless of experience level, the Vagabond is Elden Ring's optimal starting class. Its stat distribution is ideal for early-game builds, boasting a fantastic weapon and armor suitable for the entire game. Its stat spread allows for easy respeccing or adaptation to various builds. Choosing the Vagabond ensures a strong start.

Does Your Starting Class Matter in Elden Ring?

Unless you're meticulously optimizing your build, your starting class's impact is minimal. While the Bandit might present initial difficulties, ultimately, you'll invest in desired stats, achieving your desired build regardless of your starting point. The difference from a perfectly optimized build might be only a few stat points.

Min-maxing isn't crucial, even in PvP. A fully optimized build offers a slight advantage, but this is only noticeable against top-tier PvP players. Choose a class that appeals to you aesthetically.

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.