Dark Souls Starting Classes Compared

Every starting class in Dark Souls with its level, stats and starting gear, side by side.

• Warrior (level 4): Straightforward melee fighter with a solid sword and shield; easy for newcomers.
• Knight (level 5): Most HP and the sturdiest armor; very forgiving early on.
• Wanderer (level 3): Quick dexterity fighter with room to dip into sorcery.
• Thief (level 5): Fragile backstabber; the free Master Key leaves your gift slot open.
• Bandit (level 4): Strength brawler with high endurance; good for heavy weapons.
• Hunter (level 4): The only class with a bow at the start; balanced dex build.
• Sorcerer (level 3): Best start for a magic build, but very frail up close.
• Pyromancer (level 1): Starts at level 1 with Fireball; flexible and popular for any build.
• Cleric (level 2): Faith user with healing and a strong mace; good for miracles.
• Deprived (level 6): Even stats and nothing else; a blank slate for experienced players.