Starting Class Questions

[Connatic]

What is the point of the different starting levels for each class, and why do the Saint and Penitent start at level 1?

When you make a new class, is each Profile completely separate when it comes to progression and unlocks?

[Lyzrac]

The starting level is determined by the classes' stat total. Same number of total points = same level. It's the same way things work in Elden Ring. The Saint probably starts at level 1 in order to balance all the gear it starts with. The penitent is the "challenge mode" start that all soulslike games have for masochists. The classes all start with different gear but all gear is available to any character so there's no reason to start a new class or worry about other unlocks, just keep playing your main character and you'll unlock everything.

TL;DR: Total stat points determines level, classes aren't really classes, you're just picking your starter loadout, and everything becomes available to you regardless of what class you chose.

[Connatic]

So Penitent is "Not for beginners", just because it's low level with no gear? More like a "Wretched" class from a Souls game?

[Lyzrac]

Yep, that's it exactly.

[Connatic]

So really just pick a class with a starting weapon you have fun with? Since there doesn't seem to be "builds" that require certain stats correct?

[Proudly Toxic]

Originally posted by Connatic:

So really just pick a class with a starting weapon you have fun with? Since there doesn't seem to be "builds" that require certain stats correct?

Well, stats matter. But not for damage (mostly). Most people will tell you that anything with high witchery is good because you want to get as high cooldown reduction as possible for your spells, but that's about it.

[EmpathyandEntropy]

High stamina really helps with certain guns and play styles.

[Telzen]

Originally posted by Connatic:

So Penitent is "Not for beginners", just because it's low level with no gear? More like a "Wretched" class from a Souls game?

Penitent is what everyone started as back before the classes were introduced. I think old saves at the time were turned into Penitent and I guess they also just wanted to leave it for those that wanted a more challenging start.

[Kai Be]

Class selection has no real impact on the actual gameplay, outside of starting stats. So it'll make it easier to work with particular weapons or particular styles of play, but that is easily eroded by the time you're lvl 30 or so.