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

If you're a fan of Elden Ring's diverse playstyles, particularly those centered around high Strength and wielding massive weapons to break enemy posture with jumping attacks and charged heavy strikes, then you'll find the Raider class in Nightreign to be right up your alley. Check out the video below to see the Raider in action.

While the Guardian, another robust class with substantial health and a penchant for large weapons, focuses more on defense with a shield as its starting weapon and an ultimate ability that can mitigate damage for the entire party for an extended period, the Raider is crafted as a pure offensive juggernaut.

The cornerstone ability for the Raider is Retaliate, which at first glance might seem underwhelming—just two stomps that inflict some physical and poise damage. However, the real power lies in the Raider’s passive ability, which prevents knockback during Retaliate. This effectively gives the Raider a damage-absorbing technique, allowing you to power through any enemy or boss attack. Moreover, if you manage to absorb a significant hit, the second stomp transforms into a devastating punch capable of staggering even the mightiest foes.

Then there's the Raider’s ultimate, Totem Stela. By slamming the ground, the Raider causes a large totem to emerge, dealing substantial damage to nearby enemies. Like all ultimates in Nightreign, Totem Stela can turn the tide of battle. It not only inflicts heavy damage but also provides a climbable structure for you and your teammates, offering either a safe haven or a strategic vantage point. Additionally, it boosts everyone's damage, making it a prime candidate for coordinated team strategies.

Among all the classes in Nightreign, the Raider has been the most enjoyable for me. Starting with the Raider’s Greataxe, a solid weapon that deals fire damage and comes with the "Endure" skill, which provides another way to withstand enemy attacks when Retaliate is on cooldown. As you progress, seeking out larger strength-scaling weapons will become key to maximizing the Raider’s potential.

Of all the classes I’ve experienced in Nightreign, the Raider stands out as the most fun and well-suited for one-on-one battles. This is fitting, as the Raider's Remembrances, which we'll discuss later this month, involve engaging in one-on-one boss fights within a gladiatorial arena, offering a refreshing change of pace.

That concludes our hands-on impressions of Nightreign's classes. Stay tuned throughout the month for in-depth looks at the game's mechanics, developer interviews, and more as IGN First continues its coverage.