Elden Ring Nightreign: Raider Class Hands-On - IGN First

One of the most thrilling aspects of Elden Ring is the wide variety of playstyles it offers, and if you're like me, you revel in the sheer power of a Strength-focused build, wielding the heaviest weapons to deliver devastating jumping attacks and charged heavy strikes. If that's your style, then you'll find the Raider class in Nightreign particularly appealing (check out the video below).

While the Guardian class, another robust option with high health and a preference for large weapons, focuses on defense with a shield and an ultimate ability that provides damage mitigation for the entire party, the Raider is crafted as a pure offensive juggernaut.

The cornerstone of the Raider's abilities is Retaliate, which might initially seem modest—just two stomps that inflict a bit of physical and poise damage. However, thanks to the Raider's passive ability, you cannot be knocked down during Retaliate. This means you have a go-to technique for absorbing damage and powering through almost any enemy or boss attack. The real kicker is that the second stomp can be upgraded to a mighty punch that staggers even the mightiest foes, provided you absorb a significant hit.

Then there's the Raider's ultimate, Totem Stela. This powerful move involves slamming the ground to summon a large totem that erupts and deals massive damage to surrounding enemies. Like all ultimates in Nightreign, it's a game-changer that can turn the tide of battle. Not only does it deal substantial damage, but the totem also serves as a climbable structure, offering a safe spot or strategic vantage point for you and your teammates. Additionally, it provides a damage buff to everyone, making it a crucial ability to coordinate with your team.

Among all the classes in Nightreign, the Raider has been the most enjoyable for me. It starts with the Raider's Greataxe, a solid weapon that inflicts fire damage and comes with the "Endure" skill, allowing you to withstand enemy attacks when Retaliate is on cooldown. However, as you progress, you'll want to upgrade to larger strength-scaling weapons that suit the Raider's playstyle perfectly.

Of all the classes I've explored in *Nightreign*, the Raider has been the most fun to play. It's ideally suited for one-on-one combat, which aligns well with its Remembrances—special challenges we'll delve into later this month—that pit you against bosses in gladiatorial arenas, offering a refreshing twist to the gameplay.

Throughout the month, stay tuned for more in-depth looks at Nightreign's mechanics, developer interviews, and more as part of IGN First.