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

If you're a fan of Elden Ring and enjoy the thrill of wielding massive weapons with brute strength, then the Raider class in Nightreign is tailor-made for you. This class is perfect for those who love to dominate the battlefield with posture-breaking jumping attacks and devastating heavy strikes. Let's dive into what makes the Raider an absolute offensive powerhouse in Nightreign.

Unlike the Guardian, another robust class with a focus on defense and equipped with a shield, the Raider is all about unleashing relentless attacks. While the Guardian's ultimate ability offers party-wide damage mitigation, the Raider's abilities are designed to crush enemies with sheer force.

The cornerstone of the Raider's arsenal is the Retaliate ability. At first glance, it might seem modest—just two stomps that deliver physical and poise damage. However, the true power of Retaliate lies in the Raider's passive ability, which prevents knockback during its execution. This means you can charge through enemy attacks unscathed, absorbing hits that would otherwise be devastating. The second stomp can be replaced by a powerful punch that staggers even the mightiest foes, making Retaliate a game-changer in combat.

The Raider's ultimate ability, Totem Stela, is equally formidable. With a ground-slamming move, a large totem erupts, dealing significant damage to surrounding enemies. This ultimate not only inflicts heavy damage but also provides a strategic advantage: the totem can be climbed, offering a safe haven or a vantage point for you and your teammates. Additionally, it boosts the damage output of your entire team, making it a crucial tool for coordinated assaults.

Starting with the Raider’s Greataxe, which inflicts fire damage and comes with the "Endure" skill to absorb enemy attacks, the Raider is well-equipped from the outset. However, as you progress, seeking out larger strength-scaling weapons will enhance your playstyle, allowing you to fully embrace the Raider's potential.

Among all the classes I've explored in Nightreign, the Raider stands out as the most enjoyable. It excels in one-on-one battles, fitting perfectly with its Remembrances, which involve gladiatorial one-on-one boss fights—a refreshing twist on the usual combat dynamics.

Stay tuned throughout the month for more in-depth looks at Nightreign's mechanics, developer interviews, and more as IGN First continues to cover this exciting game.