Starting your journey in Elden Ring can feel intimidating. With its mysterious open world, punishing enemies, and deep mechanics, even seasoned gamers can feel a little lost at first. That’s why choosing the right class is a key part of getting started. In this guide, we’ll take a friendly, helpful look at the best Elden Ring classes for beginners—those that offer a smooth, forgiving introduction without sacrificing depth or enjoyment.
Why Your Starting Class Really Matters
In Elden Ring, your starting class isn’t just cosmetic. It determines your initial stats, gear, weapons, and sometimes the ease with which you’ll tackle early bosses. While the game gives you full freedom to mold your character however you like over time, your class defines your first few hours—and that makes a big difference for new players.
A good starting class can help you survive longer, understand combat more quickly, and avoid frustration in those critical first zones. Choosing wisely lets you enjoy the world rather than fight against it.
What Makes a Class Good for Beginners
Some Elden Ring classes are complex and demand deep mechanical understanding. Others are straightforward, tough, or magically gifted in ways that simplify the learning curve. For new players, the ideal class offers a mix of the following:
- High survivability – Good starting armor, strong health pool, and a reliable shield.
- Simple mechanics – Melee or magic that doesn’t overwhelm with complex timing or stamina balancing.
- Flexible stats – Room to experiment and grow into different builds later.
- Fun early tools – A strong weapon or spell that makes early-game challenges less punishing.
With that in mind, let’s explore the five best Elden Ring classes for beginners.
Vagabond – The Classic Knight
Best for: Players who like swords, shields, and taking hits
The Vagabond is one of the safest and most reliable starting classes in Elden Ring. It begins with high Vigor, Strength, and Dexterity, allowing you to use a variety of weapons and armor early on. Equipped with a straight sword, a halberd, and a sturdy shield, Vagabond lets you block attacks, strike back, and explore with confidence.
It’s ideal for learning basic melee combat, timing, and enemy patterns. If you’re not sure where to begin, Vagabond is the most balanced and forgiving class available.
Professional Note: Great choice if you want to stay in control and focus on physical combat without worrying about magic right away.
Samurai – Style and Versatility
Best for: Balanced players who want both ranged and melee options
The Samurai begins with one of the strongest starting weapons: the Uchigatana, a katana that deals fast, consistent damage and causes blood loss—a powerful mechanic even late in the game. It also comes with a longbow, giving you range options right out of the gate.
With good Dexterity and Endurance, Samurai players can dodge, roll, and attack with a blend of agility and strength. It’s a class that allows you to handle many situations effectively.
Professional Note: Perfect if you like quick strikes, a bit of archery, and a clean aesthetic without sacrificing efficiency.
Astrologer – Master of Sorcery
Best for: Long-range magic lovers who enjoy spellcasting
The Astrologer is Elden Ring’s pure magic class, starting with high Intelligence and Mind for casting powerful ranged spells. You’ll begin with Glintstone Pebble and Glintstone Arc—two spells that make short work of early enemies from a distance.
While the Astrologer has lower Vigor and Defense, its ranged capabilities can make early fights much easier, especially if you stay aware of your surroundings and manage FP (magic energy) wisely.
Professional Note: Ideal for thoughtful, strategic players who want to explore the magical side of Elden Ring from the very beginning.
Confessor – Balanced Faith and Blade
Best for: Players who want healing magic with swordplay
The Confessor is a hybrid class that combines sword-and-shield melee combat with basic Faith-based incantations like healing and damage buffs. It starts with a decent sword, shield, and spells like Urgent Heal, which helps offset early mistakes in combat.
With well-rounded stats in Faith, Strength, and Mind, the Confessor is a smooth entry point into both melee and magic without leaning too heavily in one direction. It’s one of the more adaptable beginner options.
Professional Note: Recommended for new players who want to experiment with magic but still keep their combat grounded and physical.
Hero – Strength Above All
Best for: Simple, heavy-hitting melee enthusiasts
The Hero starts with high Strength, a massive axe, and decent armor—perfect for those who like to smash enemies into the dirt. It’s straightforward, powerful, and doesn’t involve too much complexity. Just swing, dodge, and win.
This class teaches the rhythm of melee combat while keeping things fun and direct. With enough health and stamina to keep going, it’s a brute-force solution to the Lands Between.
Professional Note: Great for players who want to keep things simple and focus on raw damage.
Honorable Mention: Wretch
Best for: Veterans who want a blank slate
The Wretch is a unique class that starts at level 1, with all stats at 10, and nothing but a club. While it’s the most customizable class in the game, it’s also the hardest for beginners. You’ll need to scavenge for armor, weapons, and survive with barebones tools.
Professional Note: Only choose the Wretch if you want full control over your build and understand the game well enough to thrive with almost nothing.
Avoid These Classes as a First-Time Player
Not every class is friendly to new adventurers. While experienced players can make these classes work, beginners might struggle with the following:
- Bandit – Starts with weak gear and low defenses; relies on stealth.
- Prisoner – Has great scaling but starts with fragile gear and a tricky mix of magic and melee.
- Prophet – Excellent late-game potential, but slow early game with difficult stat allocation.
These classes offer interesting challenges, but they don’t provide the early-game comfort that new players often need.
Helpful Tips for Picking the Right Class
- There’s no wrong choice. All classes can eventually become powerful in the right hands.
- Respec is possible. You can reset your stats later in the game, so don’t stress over perfection.
- Play what interests you. Whether that’s heavy armor, blood katana, or shiny sorcery—go with what feels exciting.
- Builds evolve. Starting stats are just a launchpad. You’ll shape your own journey through leveling, weapons, and upgrades.
Final Thoughts
The world of Elden Ring is challenging but rewarding. Picking the right class doesn’t mean picking the “best” one on paper—it means choosing a class that feels right for your style of play.
Whether you’re charging in as a Vagabond, sniping enemies as a Samurai, or casting spells from the shadows as an Astrologer, each path offers something special. Your first class is just the beginning of a journey shaped by your curiosity, mistakes, victories, and imagination.
FAQ
What is the best Elden Ring class for beginners?
The Vagabond is widely considered the best class for new players due to its high health, strong starting gear, and easy-to-learn melee combat. It offers excellent survivability and flexibility.
Can I change my class later in Elden Ring?
You cannot change your class, but you can respec your character’s stats later in the game using a key item. This allows you to shift your build and explore different playstyles.
Is magic good for beginners in Elden Ring?
Yes, magic can be beginner-friendly if you choose a class like the Astrologer. Its powerful ranged attacks let you defeat enemies from a safe distance, though it requires good FP management.
Which Elden Ring class is the easiest to play?
The Samurai is one of the easiest classes to play, thanks to its versatile gear, strong katana, and early access to both melee and ranged combat. It’s great for adapting to different situations.
Is the Wretch a good starting class in Elden Ring?
The Wretch is not ideal for beginners. It starts with no armor, minimal gear, and balanced stats, offering total customization but a very challenging early game experience.
Also read :Which Monster Hunter Wilds Weapons Will Suit Your Style?
