The class system in Xenoblade Chronicles 3 offers deep customization and progression, allowing players to unlock and master 25 unique classes. Whether you want to optimize performance or simply enjoy experimenting with builds, this guide covers everything from unlocking classes to earning Class Points (CP) efficiently.
Understanding the Class System
At the beginning of the game, each character starts with a unique class. Over time, the initial six classes become available to every party member. Additional classes are unlocked by completing Hero Quests, which are often tied to question marks on the map.
Class Aptitude Tiers
Each character has an aptitude rating for each class:
- S-Rank: Instantly unlocks the class after completing its Hero Quest.
- A-Rank: Gains access with moderate CP farming.
- D-Rank: Unlocks slowly, requiring more CP than usual.
CP Gain Mechanics
- CP is awarded after battles and is influenced by the enemy’s level relative to your own.
- Fighting stronger enemies = more CP.
- Being over-leveled = drastically reduced CP gains.
Tips for Earning Class Points Quickly
- Cook CP-Boosting MealsUse Manana’s cooking at rest spots to prepare meals that increase CP gain.
- Overkill Unique Monsters
- Trigger a Chain Attack when the enemy’s HP is low to score an Overkill Bonus.
- This bonus multiplies your CP, EXP, and gold.
- Aim for enemies 2–3 levels above your party for best results.
- Use Chain Attacks EffectivelyStart chain attacks strategically to end battles with massive Overkill rewards.
- Spend Silver Nopon Coins
- Use these to level up class ranks instantly, especially on characters with low aptitude for a class.
Class Progression and Mastery
Class Rank Rewards
- Rank 5: Unlocks first Master Skill
- Rank 10: Unlocks first Master Art
- Rank 15: Unlocks second Master Skill
- Rank 20: Unlocks Talent Art and completes class progression
Master Arts and Skills
- Master Arts: Active abilities transferable between classes, but must be from the opposite nation (Agnes for Keves, and vice versa).
- Master Skills: Passive abilities that can be equipped across all classes freely.
Top Classes and Skills to Prioritize
Starting Classes
- Swordfighter (Noah): Cipher Edge increases crit rate — a must-have.
- Zephyr (Mio): Stormy Gale boosts evasion — ideal for dodge tanks.
- Medic Gunner (Uni): Eternal Formation extends field effects.
- Tactician (Tion): Ethereal Ability boosts Ether damage — key for casters.
- Ogre (Sena): Provides physical damage boosts when at high HP.
Advanced and Hero Classes
- Full Metal Jaguar: Massive damage boost when attacks don’t miss — great for Dex builds.
- Signifer: Buff-stacking powerhouse — crucial in chain attack teams.
- Martial Artist: Art canceling grants speed and damage — ideal for quick hitters.
- Strategos: Extends both buffs and debuffs — great for control playstyles.
- Troubadour: Recharge allies’ arts faster — strong utility for chain support.
Recommended Master Skills
- Critical Strike: +50% crit damage — universal for DPS.
- Capable Hands: Instantly charges Talent Arts — incredible opener.
- Essence of Ether: Boosts Ether damage — synergizes with casters.
- Universal Annihilation: +150% damage to toppled/launched enemies.
- Swift Song: Party-wide buffing — synergizes with support builds.
Class Synergy and Optimization
Fusion Arts
Combine main and master arts to enhance battle performance. Pick arts with similar recharge times to maintain rhythm and combo flow.
Strategic Class Pairing
Tailor class selection by role:
- Tanks: Focus on Zephyr, Guardian Commander, Lone Exile
- Healers: Mix Signifer, Troubadour, Lifesage
- Attackers: Pair Martial Artist, Soulhacker, and Incursor for burst setups
Final Tips and Recommendations
- Prioritize classes that match your character’s stats and party role.
- Master multiple classes to build flexible loadouts and access top-tier Master Arts and Skills.
- Don’t stress about maxing everything — focus on synergy, enjoyment, and utility.
- Revisit old areas to complete Hero Quests as new traversal options unlock.
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