Embarking on your *Elden Ring* adventure begins with choosing one of ten starting classes, each subtly different in stats and initial equipment. This ranking guides you from least to most effective.
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 often top the lists, several others offer compelling choices. Let's explore each class's strengths and weaknesses.
10. Bandit
The bottom three classes are fairly interchangeable, but the Bandit lags behind. Its low starting level (5) and reliance on Dexterity—a relatively weak stat—coupled with subpar equipment, make it a less-than-ideal starting point.
9. Confessor
Confessors struggle due to their limited early-game potential. Faith, their primary stat, requires significant investment and specific items to become truly effective. Their initial equipment doesn't synergize well with early-game builds or Faith-based damage.
8. Prisoner
Similar to the Bandit, the Prisoner offers a weaker version of Dexterity/Intelligence builds. Their fragility and less-than-optimal starting weapons make other options preferable for those focusing on these stats.
7. Warrior
Among Dexterity options, the Warrior isn't terrible, starting with two swords. However, superior Dexterity choices exist. While boasting the highest base Dexterity, only one point separates it from the soft cap, and the gear doesn't justify its selection. Still, it surpasses the previous three as a starting build.
6. Prophet
Faith-based starting classes present challenges. The Prophet, however, is the best of the bunch. Its starting spells are decent, but the equipment pales in comparison to others. With strategic acquisition of Faith weapons, it can prove viable.
**Related: Best Keepsake to Choose in Elden Ring**
5. Hero
The top four classes stand out. The Hero offers advantages: a Battle Axe, 16 Strength, and a useful Ash of War for early-game damage. However, low Dexterity hinders meeting minimum stat requirements, and a superior Strength option exists.
4. Samurai
This is the premier Dexterity starting class. Excellent armor and the exceptional Uchigatana—a weapon with great scaling, impressive damage, and bleed potential—make it a strong contender.
3. Astrologer
Intelligence-focused builds should begin here. The Astrologer's ability to spam early-game spells and its 16 Intelligence at level 6 are unmatched. The room for stat improvement and suitable equipment further solidify its position. It also transitions well to Intelligence/Strength builds.
2. Wretch
The Wretch starts at level one with even stat distribution and a decent club with a strong Ash of War. Its lack of armor and low level create a challenging start for beginners. While not ideal for those sticking to a single stat, it shines for those wanting build flexibility or planning to respec.
1. Vagabond
For both new and experienced players, the Vagabond is the best starting class. Its stat distribution excels in early-game builds, and its weapon and armor remain useful throughout the journey. Its versatile stat spread allows for easy respeccing and build adaptation.
Does Your Starting Class Matter in Elden Ring?
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Unless you're meticulously optimizing builds, your starting class's long-term impact is minimal. While a Bandit might present early challenges, you'll eventually invest in desired stats, reaching your intended build regardless of the initial choice. Even min-maxing, especially in PvP, yields only slight advantages unless playing against top-tier players.
Choose a class that aesthetically appeals to you.
What Is the Easiest Class for Beginners?
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For newcomers, the Vagabond is recommended. Its straightforward melee combat simplifies learning *Elden Ring*'s mechanics.
Elden Ring is available now on PC, Xbox, and PlayStation.
