Classes & Builds
Class roles, Specialist choices, and flexible squad builds.
12 focused guides · Updated for current playThe best first steps for this topic.
Build Specialist around one job using unlocked major and minor abilities; mixing every attractive ability produces a weaker loop than a focused control, damage or support build.
Build Specialist around one job using unlocked major and minor abilities; mixing every attractive ability produces a weaker loop than a focused control, damage or support build.
Aliens Fireteam Elite 2Classes And Builds
Aliens Fireteam Elite 2Classes And Builds
Aliens Fireteam Elite 2Classes And Builds
Aliens Fireteam Elite 2Classes And Builds
Aliens Fireteam Elite 2Classes And Builds
Aliens Fireteam Elite 2Classes And Builds
Aliens Fireteam Elite 2Classes And Builds
Aliens Fireteam Elite 2Classes And Builds
Aliens Fireteam Elite 2Classes And Builds
Aliens Fireteam Elite 2Classes And Builds
Aliens Fireteam Elite 2Classes And Builds
12 answers
A good beginner build uses the class's intended weapon access, one dependable crowd-control or survival tool, and perks that improve a loop you can repeat under pressure. Avoid copying a late-game setup with unavailable unlocks; begin with stable handling and clear ability timing, then change one slot after each test mission.
Verified guideThe best beginner class is a focused base class with one readable combat loop, a weapon range you can control, and an emergency option that does not require teammate timing. Learn that loop before moving to a Specialist hybrid. Compare the broader [Best Class](/games/aliens-fireteam-elite-2/classes-and-builds/best-class/) and build the chosen role with [Best Builds](/games/aliens-fireteam-elite-2/classes-and-builds/best-builds/).
Verified guideFor the safest all-purpose build, start with Machinist lane control; use Duelist for endgame DPS, Hunter for self-sufficient solo control, and Medic for the easiest beginner co-op setup. Match weapons, perks, and augments to that one job. Hotfix 2 changed PC performance and crashes, not class balance, so the launch build recommendations remain current.
Verified guideSpecialist ranks first for overall flexibility because it can combine major and minor abilities across the roster, but it is not automatically the easiest or highest-damage class. Pick a focused base class while learning, then rank classes by the squad job, mission range, and current Patch 1 behavior. For companion-bot play, use the separate Best Solo Class guide.
Verified guideThe best co-op class is the one that completes your four-player squad rather than duplicating a job already covered. Choose after identifying whether the team lacks control, sustain, dependable wave clear, or focused damage, then verify that the class's weapons and ability timing fit the mission and current patch.
Verified guideThe best DPS build reinforces one repeatable damage window: choose a class that can hold its range, pair complementary weapons, and use perks that improve the same ability loop. Test the setup against waves and durable targets, then check [Best DPS Class](/games/aliens-fireteam-elite-2/classes-and-builds/best-dps-class/) and [Best Weapons](/games/aliens-fireteam-elite-2/weapons-and-perks/best-weapons/) for the surrounding choices.
Verified guideThe best DPS class is the class whose abilities and weapon access create a repeatable damage window for the current mission. Do not treat a launch ranking as permanent after Patch 1 changes. Start with the overall [Best Class](/games/aliens-fireteam-elite-2/classes-and-builds/best-class/), then test one damage loop and use [Best DPS Build](/games/aliens-fireteam-elite-2/classes-and-builds/best-dps-build/) to refine it.
Verified guideA strong solo build prioritizes self-sufficient control, a weapon range you can maintain while repositioning, and one saved recovery tool when bots lose formation. Start with [Best Solo Class](/games/aliens-fireteam-elite-2/classes-and-builds/best-solo-class/), then use [Best Builds](/games/aliens-fireteam-elite-2/classes-and-builds/best-builds/) and [Perks](/games/aliens-fireteam-elite-2/weapons-and-perks/perks/) to tune one loop at a time.
Verified guideThe best solo class is the most self-sufficient class you can execute consistently: prioritize immediate crowd control, a safe recovery tool, and weapons that remain accurate while repositioning. Specialist is the flexible end goal after you understand the base-class abilities, but a focused control or sustain class is safer while learning because it does not depend on companion-bot timing.
Verified guideAliens: Fireteam Elite 2 launches with five role-focused base classes plus Specialist, a customizable class that can mix major and minor abilities from the available classes. Start with base classes to learn their jobs before building a Specialist hybrid.
Verified guideBuild Specialist around one job using unlocked major and minor abilities; mixing every attractive ability produces a weaker loop than a focused control, damage or support build.
Verified guideSpecialist is the flexible endgame class. Use it to combine major and minor abilities from classes you already understand, but give the hybrid one clear job; mixing individually strong abilities without a shared plan usually produces a weaker, harder-to-read co-op role.
Verified guide