Top Classes to Choose in Xenoblade Chronicles X

If you're diving into Xenoblade Chronicles X Definitive Edition and feeling a bit overwhelmed by the array of classes to choose from, don't worry. It takes time to master new weapon skills, but rest assured that any class can be effective. That said, some classes shine brighter than others, though sticking with your starting class can be just as rewarding due to its versatility.

Our guide highlights the top five classes in Xenoblade Chronicles X Definitive Edition and explains why they're worth considering.

Drifter

Xenoblade Chronicles X encourages you to move on from the Drifter class once you reach rank 10, but don't be too hasty. Drifter is exceptionally versatile and remains useful throughout the game. Think of it as Shulk from the original Xenoblade Chronicles, but with a more focused skill set. Drifter offers a mix of debuff and offensive arts, including stagger and topple abilities, and even a health regeneration skill, ensuring you're not overly reliant on your party's healing.

With assault rifles for ranged damage and knives for melee attacks, Drifter is adaptable to any combat situation. Moreover, it boasts the highest number of skill slots in the game, making it an excellent class to return to after experimenting with others, allowing you to tailor it to your playstyle.

Full Metal Jaguar

Elma’s class, Full Metal Jaguar, is for those who thrive on risk and reward. Your power surges when your HP dips below 50%, and one skill ensures you'll often be in that critical state by reducing your health when you attack. The Ghost Factory skill helps allies evade attacks, while Electric Surge allows you to deal ether damage, a rarity among melee classes. Even the basic skill, Shadowstrike, packs a punch, making Full Metal Jaguar a thrilling choice for the daring player.

Duelist

Duelists are the ultimate self-sufficient attackers, excelling in close-range combat while also handling ranged attacks competently. Equipped with a longsword and an assault rifle, they're like an enhanced version of the Drifter. Their skill set includes Last Stand, which boosts the party's TP using your own, perfect for setting up powerful attacks.

Soul of the Samurai adds area-of-effect properties to basic attacks, and True Stream Edge recovers TP when your morale is high. But the standout skill is Blossom Dance, which not only staggers and sets up enemies for toppling but also ignores their resistances, making it invaluable in battle.

Mastermind

For those who prefer manipulating enemy behavior over brute force, Mastermind is the class to choose. While its arts might not match the Duelist's in raw power, they make challenging fights more manageable. Mastermind can remove enemy buffs and, at level seven, reduce enemy debuff resistance. Additionally, it boosts TP and can inflict the virus effect, requiring more strategic attention but yielding significant benefits.

Galactic Knight

Though often associated with Skell users, Galactic Knights are versatile beyond their robotic counterparts. They can remove debuffs, heal allies, and deal heavy, specialized damage. Their ability to reduce cooldowns with melee combos adds to their utility. For Skell users, they offer appendage HP restoration and direct combat power boosts, making Galactic Knight a formidable class in and out of Skells.