One of the standout features of *Elden Ring* has always been its flexibility in playstyles, and for players who love diving into combat with raw power, stacking Strength, wielding massive weapons, and obliterating enemies with heavy-hitting moves, the Raider in *Nightreign* is an absolute dream come true. If that’s your kind of gameplay, then you’ll definitely want to check out what this powerhouse class brings to the table (see the video below).
Unlike the Guardian — another heavy-hitting class known for its durability and team support through a starting shield and a party-wide damage mitigation ultimate — the Raider is all about aggressive offense and fearless combat. This class doesn’t just take hits; it thrives on them.
The Raider's Core Ability: Retaliate
The Raider’s signature move is Retaliate, which at first glance may seem underwhelming — two stomps dealing moderate physical and poise damage. But where this ability shines is in its synergy with the Raider’s passive trait: the ability to remain standing while performing the move. This makes Retaliate not only a powerful counterattack but also a near-invincible moment where you can absorb enemy strikes without being staggered or knocked down.
Beyond just soaking damage, there’s another layer to Retaliate: if you successfully endure a strong attack during the move, the second stomp gets upgraded into a devastating punch that can stagger even the toughest foes. It’s a mechanic that rewards timing and aggression, turning defense into explosive offense in an instant.
Ultimate Power: Totem Stela
The Raider’s ultimate ability, Totem Stela, sees the character slam the ground, summoning a towering totem that erupts outward, dealing massive area-of-effect damage. This isn’t just a flashy finisher — it’s a game-changer.
Once summoned, the totem becomes a climbable structure, offering both tactical positioning and a temporary safe zone for you and your teammates. Additionally, it grants a team-wide damage boost, making it one of the most valuable ultimates to coordinate during intense boss fights or chaotic multiplayer encounters. When used strategically, Totem Stela can completely shift the momentum in your favor.
Why the Raider Stands Out
Of all the classes I’ve tested in *Nightreign*, the Raider has been the most thrilling to play. It starts off with the **Raider’s Greavtaxe**, a solid fire-damage weapon equipped with the “Endure” skill — a useful tool for absorbing enemy attacks when Retaliate is on cooldown. However, as the nights grow darker and the battles more brutal, upgrading to a larger, strength-scaling weapon will maximize the Raider’s potential.
This class excels in solo duels, making it ideal for players who enjoy one-on-one combat scenarios. The design of the Raider’s Remembrances — which feature gladiatorial-style boss arenas — fits perfectly with this style, offering a refreshing break from traditional encounters and rewarding precise, aggressive play.
If you're drawn to overwhelming force, unshakable resilience, and the thrill of overpowering your enemies head-on, the Raider in *Elden Ring: Nightreign* might just be your new favorite class.
