One of the toughest choices in any MMO comes right at the start—which class should you pick? This decision can quickly become overwhelming in the case of FF XIV as you have 20 to choose from! This article will break this impressive number of classes down for you; helping you pick the best class for you depending on the type of player you are, and the type of experience you want from the game.
Best Classes for Beginners
Some classes are fun and straightforward, while others are intricate and complex. These are three of the best classes to choose from if you’re new to MMOs or are simply looking for a fun, laid-back experience when playing.
Red Mage (DPS)
The Red Mage offers the perfect balance of accessibility and power. It’s gameplay is relatively simple, offering a straightforward but fun rotating skillset between white and black magic. While the class’s signature abilities provide seriously satisfying burst damage. The Red Mage also has self-healing, making it a forgiving DPS.
Warrior (Tank)
Warriors are robust thanks to their self-healing, making them feel a little more self-sufficient than other tank classes. Not only that, but their direct damage rotation lets you focus on the fundamentals of tanking—positioning and enemy management—instead of relying on complex buffs and mixed abilities.
White Mage (Healer)
With strong single-targe healing, and great AoE healing too, the White Mage is incredibly easy to pick up and play. While their Holy spell delivers some nice damage too.
Best Classes for Experienced Players
If you’re an MMO veteran or are simply looking for a challenge, FFXIV also has plenty of classes for you. These are two of the most enjoyable.
Ninja (DPS)
Ninja has a complex Mudra system which delivers incredible burst damage but only with the correct time-reliant execution. It may have the strongest damage potential in the game, but that potential is held behind a high skill ceiling. This toolset makes the Ninja hugely satisfying for skilled players who are ready to master its intricacies.
Gunbreaker (Tank)
The Gunbreaker plays like a DPS, but within the role of a tank. Offering a much more active and dynamic playstyle which goes far beyond the standard rotations and motions of other tanks. While this makes them tougher to play, it also makes them great for players looking for a more engaging tank playstyle.
Best Classes for Story Content
While FFXIV has many parts, story runs deep within the Final Fantasy DNA—making it one of the most widely enjoyed parts of the game. If you are playing for story, choose one of these clases:
Paladin (Tank)
The iconic knight class, the Paladin’s storyline compliments the main scenario excellently. Not only that, but its balanced toolkit make it a great solo and multiplayer class—ready to take on any and every challenge in the game.
Dragoon (DPS)
If you have more flair, the Dragoon offers great abilities and deep ties to the Heavensward expansion’s narrative. Not only that, but the class’s straightforward progression and reliable DPS make it a great choice for story content in both the main game and expansions.
Best Classes for Raid Content
Raids are a huge part of MMOs, and FFXIV is no different. These are two classes to pick if you’re going to focus on raiding. While it takes a while to get to endgame content, you can buy FFXIV gil to get you there faster.
Astrologian (Healer)
The Astrologian’s card system and ability to switch between shielding and regenerating health makes them incredibly valuable in endgame raids. Of course, this ability doesn’t come without challenge. But it’s party support and buffs will make you a sought after party member for raiding.
Summoner (DPS)
Since being reworked, the Summoner provides reliable DPS and utility in raids, along with the invaluable ability to resurrect fallen party members. This makes the Summoner a key member of most raiding squads.
