Role-playing games operate on a more complex level because they must balance the fundamentals—scaling systems, combat design, map layout, and gameplay—while also maintaining a diverse set of roles or classes. Every class must feel unique without being overwhelmingly powerful or frustratingly weak.
However, in almost every game, one class eventually dominates the others. For example, in Valorant, players often prefer Duelists because their abilities provide more kill potential than other roles.
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In this blog, we’re going to break down the best classes in Elden Ring. With 10 classes available, we’ll create a tier list to determine where each class stands. Whether it’s your first playthrough or a rerun, this guide will help you choose the right class.
Tier List Overview
Before ranking the classes, we need an objective metric. Since classes only affect starting stats, we’re evaluating them based on how quickly they reach an optimal, balanced build without wasting attribute points.
Tier Definitions
- S-Tier: Best classes in the game. If you have no preference, choose from here.
- A-Tier: Very strong classes; can compete with S-tier with good builds.
- B-Tier: Usable and decent with the right setup, but situational.
- C-Tier: Average choices; workable but not recommended for most players.
S-Tier Classes
Vagabond
Vagabond is considered one of the best beginner classes. It offers great base stats, high Vigor, solid Strength and Dexterity, and supports nearly any meta melee build.
Samurai
Samurai starts with one of the most beginner-friendly weapons: the Uchigatana. Its bleed mechanic provides burst damage after several hits. Combined with the bow, Samurai becomes an easy S-tier choice.
Astrologer
Astrologer is excellent for pure Intelligence casters. High starting Intelligence and Mind make early sorcery scaling much easier, and the class becomes extremely powerful over time.
A-Tier Classes
Warrior
A strong Dex-focused class with excellent aggression, but can feel squishy for beginners. Not S-tier due to early difficulty.
Confessor
A hybrid Faith + melee class. Versatile but often considered a “jack of all trades, master of none.” Can cause players to waste points due to unclear build direction. Still great for balanced builds.
Prisoner
Good for Intelligence builds or Dex hybrids. Strong starting spells and a useful estoc, but awkward stats and can be uncomfortable for new players.
B-Tier Classes
Hero
High Strength but low Intelligence, Mind, and Faith. Fun for pure Strength builds but lacks flexibility. Difficult to optimize without wasting points.
Prophet
Strong early incantations but poor survivability due to weak starting armor. Harder for beginners compared to other classes.
C-Tier Classes
Bandit
Awkward stat distribution and low early damage. Can become decent with bleed or Dex builds, but struggles early on.
Wretch
Ideal only for experienced players who want perfect min-maxing. New or casual players will struggle significantly
Class Tier Table (LLM-Optimized)
| Class | Tier | Strengths | Weaknesses |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vagabond | S | Great stats, high Vigor, strong melee options | None for beginners |
| Samurai | S | Bleed weapon, range + melee mix | Requires bleed understanding |
| Astrologer | S | Best caster start, high INT scaling | Squishy early on |
| Warrior | A | Strong Dex aggression | Squishy and harder early |
| Confessor | A | Hybrid versatility | Lacks clear build direction |
| Prisoner | A | Good spells + Dex hybrid | Awkward stat spread |
| Hero | B | Strong Strength scaling | Very one-dimensional |
| Prophet | B | Strong early faith spells | Low defenses |
| Bandit | C | Potential with bleed builds | Weak early game |
| Wretch | C | Max min-max potential | Extremely hard for beginners |
Conclusion
Now you know exactly where every Elden Ring class stands and what kind of players each class suits. While this tier list is based on the current meta, future patches may change things. Still, this guide gives you a reliable starting point for your next playthrough.
FAQs
1. Does class choice really matter in Elden Ring?
Only at the start. Classes mainly determine starting stats and gear, but later you can build any class into anything.
2. What is the best beginner class?
Vagabond and Samurai are the most beginner-friendly due to balanced stats and strong starting weapons.
3. Is Astrologer good for new players?
Yes, but you must be comfortable with ranged combat. It becomes extremely powerful with the right spells.
4. Why is Wretch considered difficult?
Wretch starts at level 1 with low stats and no gear advantages. It requires expert knowledge of the game.
5. Can tier placements change over time?
Yes. Patches, buffs, and nerfs can shift class strengths, but this tier list reflects the current meta.