Destiny 2 Best Class in 2024

Guardians, welcome to the ultimate Destiny 2 class tier list for 2024. In this article, we’ll name the best classes for all types of content and activities. There are 3 main classes in the game, as you well know. However, each class has several subclasses based on the 5 elements. Each subclass has its own set of abilities and can be either OP or useless in specific activities. In this tier list, we will determine how to pick your class and subclass and when to change it to have an advantage for the content you’re about to do.

Before we start ranking the best classes in Destiny 2, we will first talk about the tiers themselves and how exactly we are going to rate the classes. We’ll go over the criteria and what each tier represents. Next, we’re going to talk about the best classes overall in great detail. This could be a somewhat controversial topic, so we want to make sure that we dedicate a good bit of our article to answering the question of what is the best class in Destiny 2. For there, we shall lay down the tier lists and then provide a more in-depth view of why each subclass belongs in its tier. Then we’re going to wrap things up with a nice conclusion where we’re gonna give you some closing thoughts on how to select the best class depending on what you’re about to play. With this plan in mind, let’s jump right into it.

 

 

Destiny 2 Class System

At first glance, the class system in the game doesn’t suggest anything complex. When you create your first character, you must have felt underwhelmed by the need to select from only 3 classes:

1. Titan - your typical big brawler who loves big guns, charges into melee, and use shields and such.
2. Hunter - more mobile yet fragile, this class loves throwing knives and weapons like hand cannons and anything that suggests power and precision. 
3. Warlocks - are local magicians who can float in the air, use all kinds of auras, etc.

These are your standard archetypes known from many other games. But once you start the game, the system gets more interesting. You see, there are different elements that impact various aspects of the game:

• Player Abilities:

Each Guardian class (Hunter, Warlock, and Titan) is equipped with multiple subclasses, each associated with one of the elemental damage types: Arc, Solar, Void, or Stasis.
Subclasses offer abilities and supers that align with their elemental type. For instance, Solar subclasses feature Solar-themed grenades, melees, and supers.

• Enemy Shields:

Many enemies in Destiny 2 are equipped with shields corresponding to elemental types such as Arc, Solar, or Void.
To efficiently break an enemy's shield, players should use weapons and abilities matching the shield's elemental type, ensuring maximum damage output.

• Weapon Damage Types:

Weapons in Destiny 2, including primary, special, and heavy types, can have elemental damage. Using a weapon with a matching elemental affinity is crucial for dealing optimal damage to shields.
Some weapons have kinetic or adaptive damage, lacking a specific elemental affinity. While effective against any shield type, they may deal less damage compared to matched elemental weapons.

The elements represent different styles and approaches in gameplay and when combined with the class archetypes, they generate 15 unique subclasses. Will this help you determine the Destiny 2 Lightfall best class? If you wish to try out the new element, this will give you the answer you’re looking for. So, let’s talk about these elements:

1. Arc: Vibrant blue energy, emphasizing high mobility and electrical damage for swift and dynamic combat situations.
2. Solar: Characterized by an orange-red color, this element focuses on high damage output and fire-themed abilities, excelling in delivering powerful, explosive attacks.
3. Void: Identified by a deep purple hue, the Void element emphasizes utility, control, and crowd control abilities, offering versatile and tactically oriented playstyles.
4. Stasis: Introduced with Beyond Light, featuring ice and frost effects, Stasis introduces freezing mechanics for crowd control and provides defensive options for a well-rounded, adaptive playstyle.
5. Strand: An elemental manifestation of the Darkness, Strand is introduced in the Lightfall expansion, parallel to Stasis. Representing a connection to the Weave, a matrix of psychic energy interlinking all things and minds in the universe, Strand allows Guardians to manipulate hidden threads that bind reality. This unique ability enables the creation, manipulation, and unraveling of matter, providing a distinct approach to combat. Striking a balance between control and relinquishing control, the Guardian flows with the threads, seamlessly integrating with the metaphysical connections of the Weave. BLOG20
6. Prismatic: combines and allows you to use abilities from Light and Darkness subclasses at the same time. This subclass allows for advanced buildcrafting possibilities by mixing and matching aspects, fragments, supers, grenades, melees, and class abilities from existing subclasses.

Therefore, each class has 5 subclasses based on each element. So before trying to find out the best class Destiny 2 2024, let’s first name the 15 unique subclasses that all come with their own set of abilities and roles:

So, this is what we’re going to be looking at moving forward with our tier list to determine the Destiny best subclasses. We will look into each class and talk about their place in the tier list.

How The Tier List Works

We are actually going to be giving you two tier lists, one for PvE and one for PvP. But since these are two completely different sides of the game, we have to approach evaluating the classes differently. Another aspect that’s worth mentioning is that there’s no point in naming just the 3 main classes and ranking them, this is simply impossible to do. Even more so, even the best subclass Destiny 2 ranking isn’t going to be very accurate, because layered on top of the subclass system is the builds system. It means that even if a subclass is S-tier it doesn’t mean that it will be the best without a proper build. So, keep these things in mind, and let’s go over this list of all Destiny 2 classes ranked from best to kind of the worst.

PvE Tier List

PvE content in Destiny 2 encompasses activities where players face off against computer-controlled enemies, typically working cooperatively in fireteams to complete various objectives. This includes story missions, strikes, raids, Nightfall strikes, dungeons, and various seasonal or expansion-specific activities. PvE challenges often require a mix of sustained damage output, crowd control, and team coordination to overcome powerful AI opponents and achieve mission objectives. Subclasses that excel in PvE are often those with strong area-of-effect (AoE) abilities, potent super abilities for clearing enemies, and support capabilities to enhance team survivability and damage output.

• Best (S Tier):

Destiny 2 best PvE class tier is considered the most powerful and effective for PvE content. They will be always in high demand for late-game PvE content such as raids and high-level versions of other co-op content. They’re also going to be your top picks for farming loot and power leveling because they’re effective at killing AI enemies.

• Strong (A Tier):

Subclasses in the "Strong" tier are solid performers in PvE but might have slight drawbacks compared to the "Best" tier. Depending on the seasonal changes and the balancing these subclasses can be top-tier, but for whatever reason they aren’t.

• Average (B Tier):

Subclasses in the "Average" tier are decent but may not outshine others in PvE scenarios. They’re good picks if you’re new in the game or just exploring new ways to play. They might be fun to play, but can’t be considered top-tier by any stretch of the imagination.

• Weak (C Tier):

Subclasses in the "Weak" tier may struggle or have limitations in PvE content. These are the classes that could use some love from the developers.

This is going to cover the Destiny classes pros and cons for the PvE side of the game. Bear in mind that these can be pretty subjective, so take it all with a grain of salt.

PvP Tier List

PvP content, involves direct competition between players or teams of players. This includes game modes like Control, Clash, Rumble, Trials of Osiris, and competitive Crucible playlists. PvP engagements focus on outsmarting and outshooting human opponents, emphasizing player skill, map awareness and strategy. Here we’re also not going to be naming only one strongest class in Destiny 2. Subclasses that shine in PvP typically have strong neutral game abilities, effective one-on-one combat capabilities, and supers that can quickly eliminate enemy players. Quick reflexes, mobility, and adaptability are crucial in PvP scenarios, and subclasses that offer advantages in these areas tend to perform well.

• Best (S Tier) subclasses are the top choices for PvP, excelling in various aspects of performance. They’re usually the preferred choices for the Trials.
• Strong (A Tier) subclasses are solid performers, although they may lack the same dominance as those in the "Best" tier.
• Average (B Tier) subclasses are decent choices but might face challenges in the current PvP meta. They’re good for casual Crucible matches and farming where stakes aren’t that high.
• Weak (C Tier) subclasses are considered less optimal and require some balancing from the devs.

This Destiny 2 tier list class 2024 provides insights into the current state of subclasses for PvP, helping you make informed decisions based on the meta trends and effectiveness of each subclass.

When ranking subclasses for PvE or PvP, considerations are made based on how well a subclass's abilities align with the demands of the specific content type. PvE-focused subclasses may prioritize sustained damage, crowd control, and team support, while PvP-focused subclasses emphasize individual combat prowess, mobility, and effective super abilities for eliminating opponents. In other words, there can’t be just one best subclass in Destiny in both types of content.

Destiny 2 Best Subclasses For PvE

This is the Destiny 2 PvE tier list  for subclasses that explains how good they are in that particular type of content.

S Tier - Best

• Dawnblade (Solar 3.0): Known for its unique movement abilities and exceptional health regeneration, Dawnblade reigns supreme in PvE. With Icarus Dash and Heat Rises facilitating enhanced vertical movement, coupled with general utility and support capabilities, Dawnblade excels in various encounters, making it a top-tier choice.
• Gunslinger (Solar 3.0): Gunslinger secures its place in the top tier with the potent Weighted Knife, offering precision hits for efficient elimination. Boasting strong supers, well-rounded abilities, and fluid gameplay, Gunslinger synergizes seamlessly with various Exotic armor options, making it a reliable choice for PvE activities.
• Berserker: The Berserker Titan emerges as a dominant force in PvE, featuring a fast-paced, in-your-face playstyle. With easy Woven Mail generation for robust damage resist and top-tier ad-clear capabilities, Strand stands out as an S Tier subclass across all PvE activities.
• Sunbreaker Titan Solar 3.0: Sunbreaker secures its spot with a powerful arsenal of Solar abilities. With effective neutral game perks, this subclass offers a balanced combination of offense and defense, making it a reliable choice for varied encounters.
• Arcstrider Hunter Arc 3.0: Featuring a dynamic playstyle, Arcstrider cements its position in the S Tier with effective Arc abilities. Swift and powerful, this subclass excels in both crowd control and single-target engagements, contributing significantly to PvE scenarios.
• Warlock Subclass Broodweaver: Broodweaver earns its place among the best with Void abilities emphasizing strategic play. The subclass stands out for its versatile toolkit, providing a balance of offense and defense crucial for successful PvE engagements.
• Prismatic Titan: S-tier for its superior crowd control and high-impact follow-ups, freezing enemies with Diamond Lance and unleashing powerful attacks like Thunderclap to efficiently eliminate threats.
• Prismatic Warlock: Dominates by summoning minions like Bleak Watchers and Threadlings to control areas, while abilities like Penumbral Blast and Feed the Void ensure sustained damage and resource regeneration​.
• Prismatic Hunter: S-tier for exceptional mobility and stealth, using grappling and leaping to reposition while Winter’s Shroud and Stylish Executioner provide debuffs and Invisibility for strategic advantages​.

A Tier - Strong

• Nightstalker Void Hunter build: Nightstalker earns its strong PvE rating with powerful neutral game abilities like Smoke and Dodge. Tether adds strategic value, suppressing enemies or controlling zones effectively. The subclass is further enhanced by solid Exotic armor options, contributing to its strong performance.
• Voidwalker Void Warlock Destiny 2: Voidwalker secures its position with strong grenades and effective neutral game perks. The impactful Nova Bomb adds substantial firepower to PvP engagements, and synergies with specific Exotic armor pieces enhance its overall effectiveness.
• Sentinel Titan Void 3.0: The Sentinel Titan cements its strong PvE presence with effective melee abilities tailored for close-quarters combat. With a potent Super boasting crowd control potential and the synergy with Synthoceps for enhanced melee and Super damage, Sentinel stands out as a reliable choice.
• Revenant Stasis Hunter build: Revenant earns its strong PvE rating with a focus on Stasis abilities. Offering a balance of crowd control and single-target damage, this subclass showcases versatility in varied encounters, complemented by effective synergies with Exotic armor options.

B Tier - Average

• Stormcaller Warlock Arc 3.0: Stormcaller secures an average rating with abilities like Ionic Blink and Pulse Grenade. While its Super is effective for clearing groups of opponents, careful positioning is required for optimal performance, placing it in the middle tier for PvE engagements.
• Hunter Subclass Threadrunner: Threadrunner lands in the average tier with a focus on manipulating the Weave. While providing grapple abilities for mobility, its impact in direct combat may fall short, requiring better synergy with Exotic armor options to enhance its effectiveness in PvP.
• Striker Titan Arc 3.0: Striker earns an average rating, offering balanced performance with versatility in abilities. While not excelling in specific areas compared to others, it maintains average effectiveness in both neutral game and Super capabilities.

C Tier - Weak

• Shadebinder Warlock Stasis: Shadebinder finds itself in the weak PvE tier due to slower Stasis abilities that lack immediate impact in fast-paced scenarios. Struggling against highly mobile opponents, Shadebinder faces challenges in providing the necessary firepower for efficient PvE engagements.
• Behemoth Titan Stasis: Behemoth lands in the weak tier for PvE, primarily due to its slower movement with Stasis. The Super may prove challenging to use effectively in competitive scenarios, requiring careful consideration for ability timing and execution.

Destiny 2 Best Subclasses for PvP

The following tier list provides a concise breakdown of the most effective subclasses for player versus player engagements, taking into account their abilities, supers, and overall performance. Keep in mind that individual playstyles and preferences may influence the effectiveness of each subclass.

Another disclaimer is in order. Tier placements are subjective and may vary based on playstyles. Experimentation with different subclasses is encouraged to find the best fit for individual preferences. Destiny 2 meta class is subject to change with updates and balancing adjustments.

S Tier - Best

• Striker (Arc 3.0): Standing as the pinnacle choice in PvP, the Striker excels with a robust neutral game featuring abilities like Seismic Strike and Ballistic Slam. Fast-charging supers, effective neutral game perks, and the Thruster ability allowing for aggressive playstyles make Striker the top pick for both casual and competitive modes.
• Dawnblade (Solar 3.0): Dawnblade earns its place in the PvP S Tier with unique movement abilities and exceptional health regeneration. Icarus Dash and Heat Rises enhance vertical movement, providing unmatched utility. Dawnblade's overall versatility, movement, and support capabilities make it a formidable force in PvP engagements.
• Gunslinger (Solar 3.0): Gunslinger cements its position in the S Tier as the best DPS class Destiny 2 with the potent Weighted Knife, offering precision hits for swift eliminations. Boasting strong supers, well-rounded abilities, and fluid gameplay, Gunslinger synergizes seamlessly with various Exotic armor options, making it a reliable choice for PvP encounters.
• Prismatic Titan: Their ability to freeze opponents with Diamond Lance and control zones with Shackle Grenade provides unparalleled crowd control, enabling Titans to dictate engagements and secure objectives effectively. The combination of high-impact abilities like Thunderclap ensures they can swiftly eliminate frozen or weakened enemies, turning the tide of battles in their favor.
• Prismatic Warlock: Warlocks dominate PvP by summoning minions like Bleak Watchers and Threadlings, creating distractions and additional targets for opponents while they focus on crucial objectives. Abilities such as Penumbral Blast not only freeze enemies but also control areas, making it challenging for adversaries to maneuver effectively. The ability to regenerate resources through Feed the Void ensures Warlocks can sustain prolonged engagements and maintain pressure on opponents.
• Prismatic Hunter: Hunters leverage their exceptional mobility and stealth capabilities to outmaneuver opponents and control engagements. Winter’s Shroud provides crucial debuffs that, when combined with Stylish Executioner’s Invisibility after defeating debuffed enemies, allow Hunters to strike from unexpected angles and escape dangerous situations. This versatility in positioning and the ability to disrupt enemy strategies make Hunters formidable opponents in PvP scenarios.

A Tier - Strong

• Voidwalker (Void): Securing its spot in the A Tier, Voidwalker brings strong grenades and effective neutral game perks to PvP engagements. The impactful Nova Bomb adds strategic firepower, and the subclass synergizes well with specific Exotic armor pieces, contributing to its strong performance.
• Nightstalker (Void): Nightstalker earns its strong PvP rating with a powerful neutral game featuring abilities like Smoke and Dodge. Tether adds strategic value for suppressing enemies or controlling zones effectively. The subclass's performance is further enhanced by solid Exotic armor options.
• Striker (Arc 3.0): Making its mark in both PvE and PvP, the Striker's effective melee abilities for close-quarters combat, coupled with a strong Super boasting good crowd control potential, position it as a strong choice in PvP scenarios. The synergy with Synthoceps enhances melee and Super damage, contributing to its A Tier placement.

B Tier - Average

• Stormcaller (Arc 3.0): Securing an average rating, Stormcaller brings abilities like Ionic Blink and Pulse Grenade to PvP encounters. While its Super is effective for clearing groups of opponents, careful positioning is essential for optimal performance, placing it in the middle tier for PvP engagements.
• Hunter Subclass Threadrunner: Threadrunner lands in the average tier with a focus on manipulating the Weave. Providing grapple abilities for mobility, its impact in direct combat may fall short, requiring better synergy with Exotic armor options to enhance its effectiveness in PvP.
• Striker (Arc 3.0): Striker maintains an average rating, offering balanced performance with versatility in abilities. While not excelling in specific areas compared to others, it remains an average performer in both neutral game and Super capabilities.

C Tier - Weak

• Shadebinder (Stasis): Shadebinder finds itself in the weak PvP tier due to slower Stasis abilities that lack immediate impact in fast-paced scenarios. Struggling against highly mobile opponents, Shadebinder faces challenges in providing the necessary firepower for efficient PvP engagements.
• Behemoth (Stasis): Behemoth lands in the weak tier for PvP, primarily due to its slower movement with Stasis. The Super may prove challenging to use effectively in competitive scenarios, requiring careful consideration for ability timing and execution.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Destiny 2 offers a diverse range of subclasses catering to different playstyles in both PvE and PvP. The tier lists provide a comprehensive overview of the current meta, including Destiny 2 highest DPS class, but it's crucial for players to consider their individual preferences and playstyles when choosing a subclass. The S Tier features standout subclasses like Striker, Dawnblade, and Gunslinger, renowned for their exceptional neutral game, versatile abilities, and strong supers, making them top choices for both casual and competitive gameplay.

But the highlight of S-tier is the latest Prismatic subclass. This is without a doubt an S-tier subclass just because it lets you play lego with abilities and Supers from all the other subclasses. This DIY subclass offers you to make an ideal class based on your preference!

The A Tier includes formidable options like Voidwalker, Nightstalker, and Striker, each excelling in specific aspects of PvP engagements. Meanwhile, the B Tier encompasses subclasses with average performance, requiring careful consideration of Exotic armor synergies to maximize effectiveness.

Finally, the C Tier highlights subclasses such as Shadebinder and Behemoth, considered weaker in PvP due to slower abilities and challenges in adapting to fast-paced scenarios. As the Destiny 2 meta evolves with updates and balancing changes, players are encouraged to experiment with different subclasses to discover their preferred playstyle and contribute to the ever-shifting landscape of the game.

F.A.Q.

What Is The Best Class To Pick On Destiny 2?

The best class in Destiny 2 depends on individual playstyle and preference. Each class (Warlock, Hunter, and Titan) offers unique abilities and subclasses, and the "best" class varies based on whether one prioritizes PvE, PvP, or a combination of both.

What Is The Most OP Class In Destiny 2 2023?

Determining the most overpowered (OP) class in Destiny 2 is subjective and can change with updates and balancing. As of 2023, classes like Striker, Dawnblade, and Gunslinger are often regarded as powerful choices, excelling in both PvE and PvP scenarios.

What Is The Most DPS Class In Destiny 2?

The class with the highest DPS (Damage Per Second) in Destiny 2 can shift with meta changes and updates. Classes like Gunslinger, Dawnblade, and certain Titan subclasses are known for delivering substantial damage output, especially when paired with optimal weapons and loadouts.

What Is The Strongest Class In Destiny 2?

The strongest class in Destiny 2 is subjective and context-dependent. Striker, Dawnblade, and Gunslinger are often considered strong due to their versatile abilities, effective supers, and solid neutral game, making them popular choices across various game modes.

What's The Most Fun Class In Destiny 2?

The most fun class in Destiny 2 is a matter of personal preference. Whether players enjoy the agile and stealthy Hunter, the powerful spellcasting Warlock, or the resilient and brute-force Titan, the enjoyment factor is subjective and tied to individual playstyles.

What Is The Highest DPS Class In Destiny 2?

Identifying the highest DPS class in Destiny 2 depends on factors like weapon choice, subclass, and specific encounters. Classes like Gunslinger with Celestial Nighthawk or Dawnblade with Well of Radiance are known for exceptional burst damage, contributing to high DPS.

Which Is Best In Destiny 2?

Determining the best class in Destiny 2 requires considering the intended activity (PvE or PvP) and personal preferences. Each class has its strengths, and the best choice depends on individual playstyle, preferred roles, and the current state of the game's meta.