123Games - What are the strongest builds/classes in Final Fantasy XIV and what sets them apart from other classes/builds?

What are the strongest builds/classes in Final Fantasy XIV and what sets them apart from other classes/builds?

In Final Fantasy XIV, the strength of a class or build is often determined by its damage output, utility, and adaptability in various content. As of January 2025, several classes stand out as the strongest options for players looking to maximize their effectiveness in both PvE and PvP scenarios.

S-Tier Classes

These classes are recognized for their exceptional performance and overall effectiveness in endgame content.

1. Pictomancer

Type: Caster
Strengths: High damage per second (DPS) and solid party buffs. The ability to heal allies with spells like "Star Prism" enhances its utility significantly, making it a top choice for many players

2. Dragoon

Type: Melee
Strengths: Consistently high damage output and valuable raid buffs like "Battle Litany." Its simplified rotation makes it accessible while still being highly effective in high-pressure situations

3. Viper

Type: Melee
Strengths: Known for its great damage potential and ease of execution. While it lacks party buffs, its individual damage capabilities make it a formidable choice

4. Gunbreaker

Type: Tank
Strengths: Combines high DPS with strong mitigation abilities, making it versatile in both offensive and defensive roles. Skills like "Heart of Corundum" enhance its survivability while dealing substantial damage

5. Bard

Type: Physical Ranged
Strengths: Offers excellent utility through party buffs and solid damage output. Its ability to support teammates effectively places it among the best physical DPS options

A-Tier Classes

These classes are also strong but may not reach the same level of effectiveness as S-Tier classes.

1. Samurai

Type: Melee
Strengths: Known for high burst damage and consistent combos, making it a powerful choice in high-end content

2. Ninja

Type: Melee
Strengths: Features high burst potential and flexibility, allowing it to adapt quickly in combat situations. It also provides valuable raid buffs, enhancing team performance

3. Black Mage

Type: Caster
Strengths: Delivers raw damage output but requires careful positioning due to its stationary casting requirement. This class excels in dealing massive damage when played correctly

4. Red Mage

Type: Caster
Strengths: Balances solid damage with utility spells that can revive allies, making it a versatile option in various encounters

Key Differentiators

What sets these classes apart from others includes:

Damage Output: Classes like Pictomancer and Dragoon excel in raw DPS, allowing them to clear content efficiently.
Utility: Many top-tier classes provide essential buffs or healing capabilities that enhance overall team performance.
Adaptability: Classes such as Ninja and Gunbreaker are valued for their ability to switch between offensive and defensive roles seamlessly.

Ultimately, the choice of class can depend on personal playstyle preferences, but these S-Tier and A-Tier classes are currently recognized as the strongest builds in Final Fantasy XIV due to their unique strengths and contributions to group dynamics.