Want to explore the vast world of *Dead Sails* and reach impressive distances without the thrill of death? You're not alone. Beyond the gear you acquire and the companions you choose, selecting the right class can significantly enhance your gameplay. To save you from endless trial and error, I've crafted the **ultimate *Dead Rails* class tier list** for your benefit. Trust me, navigating this list is far less of a hassle than figuring it out on your own.
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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
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I'm aware that this Dead Rails class tier list might stir up some debate, but it's a necessary conversation. You simply can't go wrong with the Vampire, even after numerous updates, yet the Survivalist has made a remarkable leap in recent weeks. It's disappointing to see the Zombie class still struggling and unable to utilize Snake Oil. However, teamwork plays a crucial role, and I'll factor it in, though only to a degree. Remember, the core of the game is about enjoying it with friends, not just about optimizing every detail.
S Tier Dead Rails Classes
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It's no surprise that the top tier is all about sheer damage output. The Survivalist and Vampire stand out as the premier choices, although the Ironclad makes a strong case. Here are the top contenders:
**Name** | **Cost** | **Info** |
Survivalist | 75 | The Survivalist starts with a Tomahawk and becomes increasingly formidable as your health decreases. Even at full health, you deal more damage than most—although a nerf might be looming. This class excels against tough enemies that don't go down easily, offering a punch that other classes can't match. |
Vampire | 75 | The Vampire is all about speed and aggression. Faster than a horse or even a sprinting zombie, your melee attacks are devastating—most zombies fall in three swings. The downside is vulnerability to sunlight, requiring you to stay in the shadows. You spawn with a Vampire Knife that heals on hit, making survival dependent on maintaining relentless pressure. |
A Tier Dead Rails Classes
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This section of the Dead Rails class tier list includes classes that are still excellent, though not as focused on pure survival. They offer strong damage and starting gear but are less effective in solo play. In my view, Ironclad has the most potential.
**Name** | **Cost** | **Info** |
Ironclad | 100 | The Ironclad is ready for battle, equipped with full armor that significantly increases durability. The trade-off is a slight reduction in speed—about 10%. Not ideal for solo runs, you'll want a teammate to cover your back. In team scenarios, shotguns are your best weapon, perfect for close-quarters combat. |
Cowboy | 50 | The Cowboy starts strong with a revolver, two ammo boxes, and a horse. This setup makes early fights easier and provides the speed needed to survive chaotic moments, especially during Blood Moon nights. With the Game Pass, you can sell the revolver for extra cash to start with an even better loadout. It's an affordable option with great early-game advantages. |
Priest | 75 | The Priest comes equipped with Crucifixes and Holy Water, which can't be sold but are effective against enemies. You're immune to lightning, making storms irrelevant. While not ideal for solo play, the Priest excels in larger groups where their throwables can significantly impact the battle. Consider them as spiritual support with a powerful throw. |
Arsonist | 20 | The Arsonist thrives in chaos, starting with Molotovs and a fire damage boost, perfect for quickly clearing groups. Ideal for small areas where you can control the pace, and a horse enhances the hit-and-run strategy. |
B Tier Dead Rails Classes
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These classes are specialists, excelling in specific situations. The Doctor, for example, is valuable for its price and support capabilities but isn't ideal for damage output. All three are crucial 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 securing the Train early on and holding off enemy waves. Not flashy, but highly effective under pressure. |
Doctor | 15 | The Doctor is your lifeline in emergencies, equipped with healing supplies and the ability to revive teammates at the cost of half their own health. One of the most affordable classes, it's invaluable in group play. Keep the Doctor safe—they can turn a potential wipe into a victory. Selling bandages and snake oil can give you a $40 boost. |
Miner | 15 | The Miner is perfect for resource gathering and nighttime exploration. With a helmet that lights the way and a Pickaxe that breaks ore in two swings, they're the fastest at collecting materials, especially new ore types. They come with some Coal to start. While not combat-focused, their utility is unmatched. |
C Tier Dead Rails Classes
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Similar to the previous section, these classes offer good utility but are less effective solo. The Conductor is almost essential in a full team, while the new Horse class is more of a novelty than a reliable choice.
**Name** | **Cost** | **Info** |
Conductor | 50 | The Conductor controls the Train, starting with Coal and achieving a top speed of 84, crucial for quick escapes. They lack a melee weapon at spawn, making them vulnerable early on. Ensure they're protected—they're vital for group mobility. They no longer suffer a health penalty, making them slightly less fragile. |
Horse | Unlockable through the Horsing Around gamemode | The Horse Class transforms you into a horse, unlocked during the 2025 April Fools "Horsing Around" event. It offers standard horse stats: 32 studs per second speed, no passive healing, and a large hitbox, making tight spaces challenging. You can saddle up on players but can't sit on the train or ride other horses. |
High Roller | 50 | The High Roller earns 1.5x money from bags, providing a quick cash boost. However, this also makes you a lightning magnet during storms, increasing the risk of strikes. It's high risk, high reward—ideal for those looking to gear up fast while embracing danger. |
D Tier Dead Rails Classes
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Even the best have their bottom rung. The default class, while lacking perks, also has no drawbacks, making it a solid choice 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, perfect for saving bonds and finding your preferred playstyle. Simple and effective for those learning the ropes. |
Zombie | 75 | The Zombie class feeds on corpses to heal and can slip past enemies unnoticed. You can't use Bandages or Snake Oil, but you gain stealth and sustainability in corpse-heavy areas. Unfortunately, it remains underpowered and not recommended. |
That's all for now! I hope this Dead Rails class tier list helps you break records and conquer those mobs with ease. Don't forget to check out our Dead Rails codes and learn more about Dead Rails challenges. Who knows what the next update will bring?