Best Pathfinder 2E Classes For New TTRPG Players

Summary

Selecting a class is crucial in Pathfinder 2e for player progression and balanced group compositions.
Rogue, Champion, and Cleric are ideal classes for newcomers due to effectiveness and simplicity.
Barbarian, Fighter, and Sorcerer also offer simplicity and effectiveness, making them perfect for new players.

One of the most important aspects of creating a character in Pathfinder 2e is selecting the class, as much of the player's progression throughout the campaign revolves around this choice. It is a crucial moment that also requires considering what the rest of the group is choosing to ensure a balanced composition.

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By Kristy Ambrose

For those just starting, this decision is even more challenging due to the relatively wide range of options available in this tabletop RPG. However, there are certain classes in Pathfinder 2e that are ideal for newcomers, combining effectiveness in various adventure scenarios with simpler mechanics to grasp, making the initial experience straightforward and enjoyable.

8 Rogue

A Great Class With Many Skills

Initial Hit Points: 8 plus Constitution modifier
Role: Striker, Skill Expert
Key Attribute: Dexterity

Rogue is one of the most classic classes in tabletop RPGs, offering gameplay focused on stealth and striking enemies off guard, dealing massive amounts of damage. Additionally, they have access to a wide array of skills, making characters frequently sought by the group for damage rolls.

On the downside, despite being a popular gameplay class, the feats system can be a hurdle for some new players in Pathfinder 2e. This is because the system offers feats based on the skills the character is trained in, and considering the number a rogue can have, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the numerous options and not know which to choose.

7 Champion

Holy Warriors With Unique Mechanics

Initial Hit Points: 10 plus Constitution modifier
Role: Tank, Support
Key Attribute: Strength or Dexterity

Despite having a diverse playstyle focused on being one of the main tank classes in Pathfinder 2e, and also having access to various healing abilities, Champions are a good choice for new players. This is because, despite different options when creating the character, the class’s gameplay is usually straightforward and easy to understand.

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By Eduardo Ariedo

However, despite having some simpler mechanics, a Champion’s anathema can be quite restrictive for those new to this tabletop RPG, like happens in Dungeons & Dragons, though they also allow room for creativity and role-playing. So, if the player struggles to maintain them, which can be a challenge depending on the group, there are other simpler class options available.

6 Cleric

Good Magic Options And High Versatility

Tristain as a cleric in pathfinder kingmaker (1)

Initial Hit Points: 8 plus Constitution modifier
Role: Support, Healer
Key Attribute: Wisdom

Although they also have some anathema that can slightly limit the player's freedom during certain actions the character might take, Clerics remain an excellent option for newcomers to Pathfinder 2e. This is because they are a class that fits well into different compositions, so not much planning is needed when choosing them.

Moreover, Clerics in Pathfinder 2e don’t need to worry about spell progression and always choosing new ones, as all available spells for the class can be prepared before the adventure. This combination of combat and healing abilities makes the class’s gameplay intuitive, making it an excellent choice for new players.

5 Monk

Perfect Choice For Players Wanting Multiple Attacks

Initial Hit Points: 10 plus Constitution modifier
Role: Striker, Tank
Key Attribute: Dexterity or Strength

Monks are one of the best classes in Pathfinder 2e overall, not just for newcomers, because in addition to being strong, they offer a lot of versatility in the number of builds that can be created based on stances. Furthermore, compared to their counterparts in Dungeons & Dragons, this class in Pathfinder 2e is somewhat more resilient.

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By Eduardo Ariedo

Through abilities focused on agility, disarming, and dodging, they excel in combat without relying on expensive equipment or a large number of magical items. Additionally, their stances provide flexibility to adapt to different situations, allowing new players to easily experiment with various fighting styles.

4 Sorcerer

A Simpler Version For Those Interested In Spellcasting

Initial Hit Points: 6 plus Constitution modifier
Role: Spellcaster
Key Attribute: Charisma

Although classes with magical abilities, like Wizard, are somewhat more complex for beginner players in Pathfinder 2e, the Sorcerer emerges as a simpler option for those interested in magic. This is because this spellcaster has a limited selection of spells but is still effective in dealing significant damage in battles and other utilities.

However, it is important for the player, when creating a Sorcerer, to study the variety of abilities and spells the class can offer, as it’s easy to get lost among the many possibilities. Additionally, understanding how to position during combats to avoid exposing the character to enemies is also essential.

3 Ranger

A Class That Offers High Versatility For Players

Initial Hit Points: 10 plus Constitution modifier
Role: Ranged or Melee Striker, Scout
Key Attribute: Dexterity or Strength

Although somewhat more complex for players, Rangers in Pathfinder 2e are still an excellent option for new players in the tabletop RPG. This is because they are very flexible, capable of functioning both in ranged or melee combat, and also have access to some spells that can be useful in certain moments.

So, for players creating their first character in Pathfinder 2e, the Ranger can be an alternative class compared to other options geared towards newcomers. They can still be adapted to different playstyles and remain useful, perfect for those who enjoy experimenting more with the various feats the game offers.

2 Barbarian

Perfect Class For Beginners In Pathfinder 2e Who Enjoy Combat

Initial Hit Points: 12 plus Constitution modifier
Role: Striker, Tank
Key Attribute: Strength

Given the nature of tabletop RPGs like Pathfinder and Dungeons & Dragons, combat is a constant that can appear at any moment, so new players will find it easier if they choose classes focused on this element. Therefore, the Barbarian is one of the best options for those starting out, as despite having some more complex abilities, like Rage, it is easy to use.

Through these simple mechanics and also by offering gameplay that forgives possible player mistakes, Barbarians are great, in addition to providing a good amount of damage and being tanks. Moreover, they are fun and easy to role-play, making them a perfect choice for players new to the hobby.

1 Fighter

A Decent Option For All New Tabletop Rpg Players

Pathfinder 2e Adventure Path Age of Ashes cover

Initial Hit Points: 10 plus Constitution modifier
Role: Striker, Tank
Key Attribute: Strength or Dexterity

Not only in Pathfinder 2e but also in many other tabletop RPGs, Fighter is one of the best classes for players getting accustomed to the mechanics of a tabletop RPG. This is because they are a very straightforward option, focused on combat and access to different weapons and armors, perfect for players who enjoy having many options.

Additionally, since they are not as complex in other gameplay elements, like using spells or other abilities, Fighters prioritize simplicity without sacrificing effectiveness on the battlefield. Thus, it is possible to better understand the mechanics of Pathfinder 2e while still feeling integrated into the rest of the adventure.

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