Elden Ring Starting Classes: Worst to Best Ranking

Every run in Elden Ring begins with a starting class, and there are 10 different options available, each with slight differences in stats or equipment. Here's a ranking of these classes from worst to best.

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

Screenshot by The Escapist. The two best starting classes in Elden Ring are the Vagabond and the Wretch. However, other classes also have strong arguments for top positions. Each class offers unique advantages and is ranked below.

10. Bandit

The Bandit is among the least favorable starting classes. Starting at a low level of 5 with a focus on Dexterity, which is already a weak stat, and equipped with subpar gear, the Bandit struggles to compete with other classes.

9. Confessor

The Confessor class lacks the initial impact needed to stand out. With a focus on Faith, which is challenging to develop without specific items, and equipment that doesn't boost early builds or Faith-based damage effectively, the Confessor falls short.

8. Prisoner

Similar to the Bandit, the Prisoner is a weaker version of other Dexterity and Intelligence builds. Starting off squishy and with less desirable weapons, players seeking these stats can find better starting options.

7. Warrior

While the Warrior offers a decent Dexterity option and starts with dual swords, there are superior choices for Dexterity builds. With the highest base Dexterity, it's just one point shy of the soft cap, but its gear doesn't justify choosing it over others.

6. Prophet

Faith-based classes are notoriously difficult to start with, but the Prophet stands out as the best option in this category. Its initial spells are decent, though the equipment could be better. Knowledge of where to find good Faith weapons can make the Prophet a viable choice.

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5. Hero

The Hero class starts strong with a Battle Axe and 16 Strength, ideal for smashing early-game foes. The Ash of War further enhances damage, but low Dexterity can complicate meeting minimum weapon requirements. Still, it's a solid Strength-based choice.

4. Samurai

The Samurai is the top Dexterity-based class in Elden Ring. With excellent armor and the formidable Uchigatana, which boasts great scaling and bleeding capabilities, the Samurai is a powerful starting option.

3. Astrologer

For those interested in a mage build or leveraging Intelligence, the Astrologer is the ideal choice. It can spam early-game spells effectively, starting with 16 Intelligence at level 6. The equipment supports this playstyle well, and it's versatile enough for transitioning into Intelligence and Strength builds.

2. Wretch

Starting at level one with 10 points in every stat, the Wretch offers a versatile base for any build. While its lack of armor and low starting level can be challenging for newcomers, it's perfect for players who want to customize their build or plan to respec later.

1. Vagabond

The Vagabond is the top starting class for both new and experienced players in Elden Ring. With a well-rounded stat distribution, a fantastic weapon, and solid armor, it's an excellent choice for early-game builds and easy to pivot into other builds later.

When unsure, choosing the Vagabond ensures a strong start to your journey in Elden Ring.

Does Your Starting Class Matter in Elden Ring?

Your starting class in Elden Ring doesn't significantly impact your long-term success unless you're deeply invested in min-maxing a specific build. Starting with a less optimal class like the Bandit might make the early game tougher, but you'll eventually reach your desired build. Even in PvP, min-maxing offers only a slight edge, which is barely noticeable outside of top-tier competition. If a class appeals to you aesthetically, feel free to choose it.

What Is the Easiest Class for Beginners?

For complete beginners, I recommend the Vagabond class. Its straightforward melee combat allows new players to quickly grasp Elden Ring's mechanics and find their footing in the game.

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