Elden Ring: Best Starting Class for First Run

With the official release date of the DLC announced, players are eagerly returning to Elden Ring to hone their abilities. For those new to The Lands Between, here are the top classes for your initial playthrough in FromSoftware’s game.

Elden Ring features a variety of classes that are similar to those found in Souls games, such as magic-wielding wizards, resilient knights, spell-casting clerics, and even options for those seeking FromSoftware’s signature challenging gameplay.

While the chosen class does not necessarily limit your playstyle, it will heavily impact your initial gameplay. Therefore, it is crucial to pick a class that aligns with your preferred combat tactics and complements your other abilities in the game.

Even though we discussed the mechanics of stats in a separate guide, we still have some suggested custom builds for you to experiment with. However, for your initial playthrough, this advice should aid you in selecting the perfect build for your first journey into The Lands Between.

The paragraph below contains the same information as the original paragraph.

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Elden Ring classes
Best starting class for beginners
Best starting class for Melee build
Best starting class for Magic build

Elden Ring player overlooking map — FromSoftware

Picking the right class for your play style is one of the most important decisions to make in Elden Ring.

Classes in Elden Ring

There are 10 distinct classes in Elden Ring, each equipped with unique stats and attributes. Despite this, starting classes offer a great deal of flexibility. Being a magic user, for example, does not limit one’s ability to wield a katana. Similarly, being a knight does not prevent one from experimenting with incantations.

In the latest FromSoftware installment, players have even more freedom to get creative as the game offers the standard Dexterity builds, including bandits and rogue characters. However, this time, a samurai class has also been added for those who prefer playing with medium armor and katanas. Ultimately, there is something for every type of player.

Best Elden Ring Starting Class for Beginners: Vagabond

Elden Ring class vagabond — From Software

The classic Vagabond melee build.

Starting Equipment for Vagabonds: Longsword, Halberd, and Heater Shield.

If Elden Ring is your first Souls game, it may be beneficial to play as a character with strong combat abilities to help you learn the fundamentals. The Vagabond, a knight character in Elden Ring, is a suitable choice as it starts with heavy armor, a sword, and a shield.

While the Vagabond starting class is crucial for a Strength, Vigor, and Endurance build, it can be customized to suit your preferences. This may include allocating points to spells or any other desired attributes. The Vagabond can even be transformed into a skilled battle-mage, or continue down the path of strength and heavy weaponry.

We suggest increasing your Faith stat to effectively use incantations in combat, which can buff yourself and weaken enemies. This starting class starts at Level 9 with evenly distributed stats.

Best Elden Ring Melee Starting Class: Samurai

Elden ring class samurai — From Software

The Samurai build is brilliant for Dexterity users.

Starting Gear for Samurai: Includes an Uchigatana sword, Long Bow, Bone Arrow, Firebone Arrow, and Red Thorn Roundshield.

The Samurai is known for their expertise in close combat, but they also possess proficiency in archery, shield usage, and a variety of other weapons. In Elden Ring PVP, it is common to encounter Samurai who choose to dual-wield katanas. Additionally, this class is highly recommended for creating a powerful bleed build.

This class is ideal for experienced Souls gamers looking to construct a versatile and customizable Dexterity build. It can also be supplemented with Faith and Intelligence spells to create a well-rounded character.

Ultimately, our team believes that the Samurai stands as the optimal starting class for proficient close-range combatants. While their approach to battle may be more intricate and hazardous compared to the Vagabond, it can prove deadly with the proper expertise.

Best Elden Ring Magic Build Class: Astrologer

An Astrologer battles the Red Wolf of Radagon.

Initial Gear for an Astrologer: Staff of the Stars, Short Sword, Small Shield, Glintstone Pebble, Glintstone Arc.

If you prefer engaging in battles from a secure distance and utilizing a variety of spells while commanding Spirits Summons, then the Astrologer class may be the perfect choice for you. It is the ideal starting class for those interested in magic.

Despite starting with a base level of 6 and having lower health, the Astrologer excels in spell-casting. With high Mind, Dexterity, and Intelligence stats, your abilities will inflict maximum damage in the beginning stages of the game.

The intention behind choosing this initial class is to create a traditional wizard character who excels in long-range attacks but is vulnerable in close-range combat. As you reach the maximum level for your magic stat, you can then focus on improving your other attributes to enhance your Astrologer’s proficiency in close combat.