If you're eager to explore the vast landscapes of *Dead Sails* and cover impressive distances without meeting an untimely end, you're in good company. Beyond the gear you acquire and the companions you choose, selecting the right class plays a crucial role in your journey. Dive into my **ultimate *Dead Rails* class tier list** to skip the trial-and-error phase. I've done the legwork so you can make informed choices and enjoy the game without the hassle.
Recommended Videos
Table of contents
- All Dead Rails Class Tier List
- S Tier Dead Rails Classes
- A Tier Dead Rails Classes
- B Tier Dead Rails Classes
- C Tier Dead Rails Classes
- D Tier Dead Rails Classes
All Dead Rails Class Tier List
I'm aware that this Dead Rails class tier list might stir some controversy, but it's an honest assessment. You can't go wrong with the Vampire, even after recent updates, but the Survivalist has surged ahead in the last few weeks. It's disappointing to see the Zombie class still underperforming and unable to use Snake Oil. However, teamwork is key, and while I consider it, remember that the game is about enjoying time with friends, not just about min-maxing.
S Tier Dead Rails Classes
It's no surprise that the top tier is all about sheer damage output. The Survivalist and Vampire stand out as the prime choices, though the Ironclad is a close contender. Here's a detailed look at the top performers:
| **Name** | **Cost** | **Info** |
| Survivalist | 75 | The Survivalist starts with a Tomahawk and becomes even more formidable as your health decreases. Even at full health, you deal more damage than most—although this advantage might be nerfed soon. It excels against tough enemies that are hard to take down. While other classes can manage these foes, none match the raw power the Survivalist brings to the fight. |
| Vampire | 75 | The Vampire is all about speed and aggression. You move faster than a horse or a sprinting zombie, and your melee attacks are devastating—most zombies fall in three hits. The downside is vulnerability to sunlight, necessitating a shadow-hugging strategy. However, you spawn with a Vampire Knife that heals you on each hit, making survival contingent on maintaining offensive pressure. |
A Tier Dead Rails Classes
In this tier, the classes remain strong but are less focused on solo survival. They offer solid damage and starting gear but shine more in team settings. The Ironclad, in particular, holds significant promise.
| **Name** | **Cost** | **Info** |
| Ironclad | 100 | The Ironclad is ready for battle, equipped with full armor that makes you much harder to kill. The trade-off is a 10% speed reduction, making it less ideal for solo runs. You'll want a teammate to watch your back. In a team setting, shotguns are your weapon of choice, perfect for close-quarters combat. |
| Cowboy | 50 | The Cowboy starts strong with a revolver, two ammo boxes, and a horse. This combination eases early-game fights and provides the mobility to survive chaotic situations, especially during Blood Moon nights. If you have the Game Pass, selling the revolver can net you extra cash for an upgraded loadout. It's a cost-effective choice. |
| Priest | 75 | The Priest wields divine tools like Crucifixes and Holy Water, which can't be sold but are potent against enemies. You're immune to lightning, making storms irrelevant. While not suited for solo play, the Priest excels in larger groups, where their throwables can significantly boost your team's chances. They offer spiritual support with a powerful throw. |
| Arsonist | 20 | The Arsonist thrives in chaos, equipped with Molotovs and a boost to fire damage, perfect for quickly clearing groups of enemies or towns. It's most effective in smaller areas where you can control the pace. A horse enhances the hit-and-run strategy. |
B Tier Dead Rails Classes
These classes are specialists, shining in specific scenarios. The Doctor, for example, offers great value for its price and support capabilities, though it's not ideal for direct combat. All three are invaluable in group settings.
| **Name** | **Cost** | **Info** |
| The Alamo | 50 | The Alamo is designed for defense, starting with Sheet Metal, Barbed Wire, and a helmet. It's perfect for fortifying the Train early on and slowing down enemy waves. It's not flashy, but it's highly effective under pressure. |
| Doctor | 15 | The Doctor is your lifeline in dire situations, equipped with healing supplies and the ability to revive teammates at the cost of half their own health. It's one of the most affordable classes and invaluable in group play. Keeping the Doctor alive can turn a potential wipe into a victory. Selling bandages and snake oil can give you a $40 boost. |
| Miner | 15 | The Miner is ideal for resource gathering and nighttime exploration. With a helmet that provides light and a Pickaxe that breaks ore in just two swings, they're the fastest at collecting materials, especially the new ore types. They also start with Coal. While not combat-focused, their utility is significant. |
C Tier Dead Rails Classes
Similar to the previous tier, these classes offer good utility but are less effective solo. The Conductor, for instance, is almost essential in a five-stack team. The Horse class, a novelty from the 2025 April Fools event, is more of a meme than a reliable choice.
| **Name** | **Cost** | **Info** |
| Conductor | 50 | The Conductor controls the Train's speed, starting with Coal and capable of reaching 84 speed, crucial for escaping trouble quickly. However, they lack a melee weapon at spawn, making them vulnerable initially. Ensure they're protected, as they keep the team moving. They no longer suffer health penalties, making them less fragile. |
| Horse | Unlockable through the Horsing Around gamemode | The Horse Class transforms you into a horse, unlocked through the 2025 April Fools "Horsing Around" event. It features standard horse stats: 32 studs per second speed, no passive healing, and a large hitbox, making navigation through tight spaces challenging. You can saddle up on players but not on the train or other horses. |
| High Roller | 50 | The High Roller earns 1.5x money from bags, providing a quick cash boost for early gearing. However, this also makes you a lightning rod during storms, increasing your risk of getting struck. It's a high-risk, high-reward choice for those willing to live dangerously. |
D Tier Dead Rails Classes
Even the lowest tier has its place. The default class offers no specific advantages or disadvantages, making it ideal for beginners to learn the game. The Zombie class, however, is severely underwhelming and not recommended.
| **Name** | **Cost** | **Info** |
| None | Free | The None class is the default, starting with just a shovel and whatever you can scavenge. It's a blank slate with no perks or drawbacks, perfect for saving bonds and figuring out your playstyle before choosing a class. It's simple, straightforward, and effective if you know how to use it. |
| Zombie | 75 | The Zombie thrives in chaos, healing by feeding on corpses and slipping past enemies with stealth. However, without access to Bandages or Snake Oil, it struggles. While it offers sustainability in areas with many bodies, it remains a poor choice overall. |
That's the complete Dead Rails class tier list! Use it to break records and conquer mobs with ease. Don't forget to utilize our Dead Rails codes and explore Dead Rails challenges. Stay tuned for what the next update might bring!
