Top Classes in Xenoblade Chronicles X Revealed

Deciding on the best Xenoblade Chronicles X Definitive Edition classes can be daunting, given the variety and the time it takes to master new weapon skills. However, almost any class can be effective in this RPG, though some stand out for their utility and versatility. If you stick with your starting class, the Drifter, you're in good company as it's one of the most versatile options available.

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Our Xenoblade Chronicles X Definitive Edition classes guide highlights the five best classes in the game and explains their unique strengths.

Drifter

Xenoblade Chronicles X encourages players to move beyond the Drifter class after reaching rank 10, but this starting class remains exceptionally versatile and useful throughout the game. For fans of the original Xenoblade Chronicles, the Drifter can be likened to Shulk, but with a more limited skill set. This class provides access to a range of debuff and offensive arts, including abilities that can stagger and topple enemies, as well as one that regenerates health, reducing reliance on potentially unreliable party healers.

The Drifter utilizes assault rifles for potent ranged attacks and knives for strong melee strikes, offering flexibility in combat styles. What makes Drifter truly stand out is its unmatched number of skill slots, allowing for extensive customization. Even after experimenting with other classes to master new skills, returning to Drifter is worthwhile for its adaptability.

Full Metal Jaguar

Elma’s class, Full Metal Jaguar, is high-risk but offers significant rewards. It boosts critical hit rates when your HP dips below 50 percent, and one skill consistently keeps your health low by reducing it upon attacking. The Ghost Factory skill enhances ally evasion, while Electric Surge delivers ether damage, uncommon among melee classes. Even the basic skill, Shadowstrike, is notably powerful, making Full Metal Jaguar a compelling choice for those who thrive on danger.

Duelist

The Duelist is a self-sufficient combatant excelling in close-range fights while adept at handling ranged encounters. Armed with a longsword and an assault rifle, it's akin to an enhanced version of the Drifter's weaponry. Duelists access a broad array of skills, including Last Stand, which boosts the party's TP using the Duelist’s own TP, facilitating powerful attacks from teammates.

Soul of the Samurai adds area-of-effect capabilities to basic attacks, while True Stream Edge recovers TP when morale is high. Blossom Dance, arguably one of the game's best skills, not only staggers and sets up enemies for toppling but also bypasses their resistances, making it invaluable against most foes.

Mastermind

For players who prefer controlling enemy behavior over sheer damage output, the Mastermind class is ideal. While its arts might not match the Duelist's in raw power, they significantly ease prolonged battles against tough adversaries. The Mastermind can remove enemy buffs and, at level seven, reduces enemy debuff resistance upon landing attacks. Additional abilities boost TP and include a capstone art that inflicts the virus effect. Mastermind demands keen attention to battle dynamics, but the payoff is well worth it.

Galactic Knight

Though often associated with Skell users, the Galactic Knight offers substantial benefits beyond piloting giant robots. They can remove debuffs, heal allies, and deliver heavy, specialized damage. Galactic Knights can also shorten their own cooldowns with melee combos. For Skell users, their abilities restore appendage HP and directly increase combat power, making the Galactic Knight a versatile choice for both ground and Skell-based combat.