Choosing the best classes in *Xenoblade Chronicles X Definitive Edition* can feel overwhelming due to the variety and the time it takes to master new weapon skills. However, every class in this RPG can be effective, though some stand out for their utility and versatility. If you stick with your starting class, you're in good company, as it's one of the game's most adaptable options.
Top 5 Classes in Xenoblade Chronicles X Definitive Edition
Drifter
*Xenoblade Chronicles X* encourages you to move on from the Drifter class once you reach rank 10, but it's a unique starting class that remains incredibly versatile throughout the game. If you're familiar with the original *Xenoblade Chronicles*, think of Drifter as a Shulk-like class, but with a more limited skill set. Drifters have access to a range of debuff and offensive arts, including skills that can stagger and topple enemies, and even one that regenerates health, reducing your reliance on potentially slow-healing party members.
Drifters wield assault rifles for potent ranged attacks and knives for strong melee combat, making them adaptable to any combat situation. Moreover, Drifters boast the highest number of skill slots in the game, allowing for extensive customization. Even if you experiment with other classes to master new skills, returning to Drifter is advisable for its flexibility.
Full Metal Jaguar
Full Metal Jaguar, Elma's class, is a high-risk, high-reward option. This class thrives when your HP dips below 50%, boosting your critical hit rate. A skill automatically keeps your HP low by reducing it with each attack, while another, Ghost Factory, helps allies dodge incoming attacks. Full Metal Jaguars can also deal ether damage with Electric Surge, a rarity among melee classes, and their basic skill, Shadowstrike, packs a punch.
Duelist
Duelists are self-sufficient attackers who excel in close combat but are also adept at ranged attacks. They use a longsword and an assault rifle, essentially an enhanced version of the Drifter's arsenal, and have access to a wide array of skills. Last Stand, for instance, boosts the party's TP using your own, ensuring your team can unleash their strongest attacks when needed.
The Soul of the Samurai skill adds area-of-effect damage to basic attacks, and True Stream Edge recovers TP when your morale is high. However, Blossom Dance stands out as one of the best skills, capable of staggering enemies, setting them up for toppling, and bypassing their resistances, which is particularly effective against most foes.
Mastermind
If controlling enemy behavior rather than dealing direct damage appeals to you, Mastermind is a great choice. Though its arts may not match the Duelist's in raw power, they make long fights against tough enemies more manageable. Masterminds can remove enemy buffs and, at level seven, reduce enemy debuff resistance upon landing an attack. Additionally, they can boost TP and inflict the virus effect on opponents, requiring careful attention to battle dynamics but rewarding strategic play.
Galactic Knight
While often associated with Skell users, Galactic Knights offer much more. Beyond Skell-specific bonuses, they can remove debuffs, heal allies, and deal significant, specialized damage. They can also reduce their own cooldowns with melee combos. In Skell mode, they can restore appendage HP and increase combat power without conditions, making them versatile both in and out of their giant fighting robots.
