Choosing the optimal class in *Xenoblade Chronicles X Definitive Edition* can feel daunting, given the variety and the time investment needed to master new weapon skills. While nearly every class can be effective in this RPG, some stand out as particularly advantageous. However, sticking with your initial class is perfectly acceptable, as it offers one of the most adaptable options in the game.
Our Top 5 Classes in *Xenoblade Chronicles X Definitive Edition*
Drifter
In *Xenoblade Chronicles X*, you're nudged to switch from the Drifter class at rank 10, but this starting class remains exceptionally versatile and useful throughout the game. Comparable to Shulk from the original *Xenoblade Chronicles*, albeit with fewer skills to master, the Drifter class provides access to a range of debuff and offensive arts. These include skills that can stagger and topple enemies, as well as one that regenerates health, reducing dependency on potentially unreliable party healers.
Drifters wield assault rifles for potent ranged damage and knives for effective melee combat, making them adaptable to any combat scenario. Moreover, Drifters boast the highest number of skill slots of any class, allowing for extensive customization. Even if you experiment with other classes, returning to Drifter to tailor it to your preferences is highly recommended.
Full Metal Jaguar
Elma's class, Full Metal Jaguar, is a high-risk, high-reward choice. It enhances your critical hit rate when your HP drops below 50 percent, and one skill ensures you maintain low HP by reducing your health with each attack. The Ghost Factory skill helps allies dodge incoming attacks, while Electric Surge inflicts ether damage, uncommon for melee classes. Even the basic skill, Shadowstrike, packs a punch, making Full Metal Jaguar a thrilling and rewarding class to master.
Duelist
The Duelist excels in close-quarters combat but is also proficient with ranged attacks. Using a longsword and an assault rifle, this class offers an evolved version of the Drifter's weapon setup. With skills like Last Stand, which boosts party TP using your own, Duelists can ensure teammates are ready for powerful attacks. Soul of the Samurai adds area-of-effect capabilities to basic attacks, and True Stream Edge recovers TP when morale is high. The standout skill, Blossom Dance, not only staggers and sets up enemies for toppling but also bypasses their resistances, making it invaluable against most foes.
Mastermind
For those who favor controlling enemy behavior over sheer damage output, the Mastermind is an excellent choice. While its arts may not match the Duelist's in strength, they simplify prolonged battles against tough adversaries. Masterminds can remove enemy buffs and, at level seven, reduce enemy debuff resistance with each attack. They also have abilities to boost TP and a capstone art that inflicts the virus effect, making Mastermind a strategic class that requires keen attention to battle dynamics.
Galactic Knight
While often linked with Skell users, the Galactic Knight class offers substantial benefits beyond Skell combat. They can dispel debuffs and heal allies while delivering heavy, specialized damage. Galactic Knights can also reduce their own cooldowns through melee combos. For Skell users, their abilities restore appendage HP and boost combat power without any prerequisites, making Galactic Knight a versatile and powerful choice.