Ranking Criteria
We’re ranking these based on three factors: mechanical power, versatility across campaigns, and pure enjoyment at the table.
5. Samurai
The Samurai brings excellent offensive capability with Fighting Spirit, giving you advantage on all attacks for a turn. Combined with Action Surge, this creates devastating nova rounds. The ribbon features are solid too, with Wisdom save proficiency and a social skill.
4. Rune Knight
Giant’s Might is endlessly fun — becoming Large size and dealing extra damage is just cool. The rune system adds versatility that fighters typically lack, and the control options (like the Fire Rune’s restraining chain) are excellent.
3. Echo Knight
Arguably the most creative subclass in the game. Your echo gives you incredible battlefield mobility and tactical options. Unleash Incarnation adds extra attacks, and the ability to swap places with your echo opens up wild combat maneuvers.
2. Battlemaster
The classic choice for good reason. Superiority dice and maneuvers give fighters the tactical depth they crave. Trip Attack, Riposte, and Precision Attack are standouts. The subclass scales well and never feels boring.
1. Champion
Wait, really? Yes — for many tables, the Champion’s simplicity is its superpower. Improved Critical on 19-20 is satisfying every time it triggers. Remarkable Athlete fills skill gaps. And the subclass lets you focus on roleplaying instead of tracking resources.
Sometimes the best subclass is the one that gets out of your way and lets you play.