Which Class Archetype is Best for Completing and Solving in Ashes of Creation?

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Ashes of Creation offers eight main archetypes to start with. Later on, you can select a second archetype to combine with your first, shaping your final class. You can also change your secondary archetype if desired. The primary archetype is one of the most vital choices during character creation because it heavily influences your gameplay and combat abilities. Here’s what you need to know about choosing the right class archetype and how adding a secondary archetype affects your character.

Primary Archetype List:

Bard
Cleric
Fighter
Mage
Ranger
Rogue
Summoner
Tank

At level 25, players can unlock and add a secondary archetype, which increases class options to a total of 64 possible combinations. This secondary archetype can be changed later by completing a quest at a village settlement, requiring you to travel back to the NPC to make the switch.

Choosing your primary archetype largely depends on your preferred play style. If you’re new to MMORPGs, there are recommended classes to help guide your choice.

The tier rankings provided are based strictly on Player versus Environment (PvE) performance, since this is the initial focus of the game:

S Tier:
These classes are the strongest overall. They are versatile and excel in multiple aspects, making them suitable for most players.

A Tier:
Great classes with some weaknesses. They perform well but aren’t quite at the top tier level.

B Tier:
Average, yet viable options. Experienced players can often turn these classes into formidable characters.

C Tier:
These are the weaker classes but still usable, especially when leveled up and played by seasoned players.

S Tier

Archetype	Description	Tier
Bard	A supportive, adaptable character that enhances group performance with buffs, debuffs, and crowd control. Useful both solo and in groups, especially for healing and speed support.	S Tier
Fighter	A straightforward damage dealer specializing in close combat. Delivers high burst damage and can sustain fighting through lifesteal at higher levels. Effective with good positioning and timing.	S Tier

Note: The Bard is a versatile support class that boosts team survivability and movement speed, making it excellent in social and solo play. The Fighter excels in melee combat, providing raw damage output for aggressive play styles.

A Tier

Archetype	Description	Tier
Cleric	A balanced healer and damage dealer perfect for group play. Can sustain allies with healing and offer decent offense, making them essential in team setups.	A Tier
Summoner	A flexible class that summons pets for healing or combat support. Ideal for tactical, solo play, especially when managing pets effectively.	A Tier

Clerics shine as the main healers in team scenarios but are also capable of holding their own offensively. Summoners are more supportive and require tactical thinking to maximize their potential.

B Tier

Archetype	Description	Tier
Rogue	Skilled in stealth and quick attacks, suitable for players who prefer mobility. Good for solo players, with the ability to avoid unnecessary fights or initiate ambushes.	B Tier
Mage	Focuses on high magic damage with a protective shield. Can freeze enemies in group fights but needs to be cautious to avoid taking damage. Better for players who understand spell coordination.	B Tier

Rogues excel at stealth and speed, making them effective for hit-and-run tactics. Mages deliver powerful spells but are fragile, requiring good positioning and timing.

C Tier

Archetype	Description	Tier
Tank	Built for absorbing damage and protecting the team. Generally slow with lower damage output but crucial during group battles. Suitable for beginners and solo play if Vigilant.	C Tier

Tanks are defenders who can take hits for the group but are less effective in dealing damage. They function best when paired with classes that can support their survivability or maximize their tanking abilities.

All Secondary Archetype Combinations

Secondary archetypes are unlocked at level 25, but only some are currently available. The feature is being tested in the Alpha 2 Phase 3 update, with more options to come. Currently, the available secondary archetypes are:

Cleric
Tank

Once all secondary archetypes are added, players will be able to revisit and explore each class’s full potential, with dedicated tier lists for each.

Changing your secondary archetype requires completing a quest at a village settlement. This means the switch isn’t instant—you’ll need to make a journey back to the NPC and work for the change.

Class	Fighter	Tank	Rogue	Ranger	Mage	Summoner	Cleric	Bard
Weapon Master	Knight	Duelist	Tellsword	Strider	Battle Mage	Wild Blade	Templar	Tellsword
Dreadnought	Guardian	Shadow Guardian	Siren	Sentinel	Spellstone	Brood Warden	Apostle	Siren
Shadowblade	Nightshield	Assassin	Trickster	Scout	Shadow Caster	Shadowmancer	Shadow Disciple	Trickster
Hunter	Warden	Predator	Pack Raptor	Hawkeye	Spell Hunter	Beast Master	Protector	Song Warden
Ranger	Falconer	Soulbow	Hawkeye	Hawkeye	Archer	Falconer	Hawkeye	Bow Singer
Mage	Archwizard	Warlock	Sorcerer	Sorcerer	Warlock	Archwizard	Sorcerer	Minstrel
Summoner	Conjurer	Necromancer	Enchanter	Enchanter	Necromancer	Conjurer	Necromancer	Minstrel
Cleric	High Priest	Scryer	Charlaton	Scryer	Scryer	High Priest	Shaman	Minstrel
Bard	Song Caller	Minstrel	Minstrel	Minstrel	Minstrel	Scryer	Minstrel	Minstrel