I would like to try a melee or tank class
Here are some recommendations for melee and tanking classes in Pathfinder: Wrath of the Righteous.
Beginner-friendly #1: Barbarian and Fighter – These two classes in Pathfinder: Wrath of the Righteous are very straightforward. The former uses the Rage mechanic to empower its attacks. The latter, meanwhile, can also try out ranged combat in addition to melee.
- For Barbarians, you can go with the default option, the Mad Dog archetype/subclass (grants an animal companion), or the Instinctual Warrior archetype/subclass.
- For Fighters, there are archetypes that add proficiencies or weapon boosts like Aldori Defender (dueling swords), Tower Shield Specialist, and Two-Handed Fighter. A more unique subclass, though, is the Mutation Warrior which can obtain mutagens akin to an Alchemist.
Ideal pick #1: Paladin – While not as straightforward as the two recommendations above, the Paladin class in Pathfinder: Wrath of the Righteous can be very useful throughout the campaign. This is primarily due to the types of enemies you’d encounter (i.e., undead and those with the evil alignment). You’ll be smiting all day just because you can. Oh, and it goes without saying that you’ll want to follow lawful and good ideals here, probably picking up the Angel Mythic Path later.
For the archetypes or subclasses, you could opt for the Divine Guardian (defense-oriented) or Martyr (offense-oriented). The Divine Hunter is another archetype option, but it’s a bit weird (a Paladin that focuses on ranged combat).
Note: Another option for divine-focused classes is the Cleric – Crusader. While it’s true that the Cleric class, in general, tends to stay at the back to channel spells, the Crusader subclass focuses on STR, too, so that it can fight in the frontlines.
Ideal pick #2: Slayer – The Rogue tends to be the sneaky class in most RPGs. But, the Slayer in Pathfinder: Wrath of the Righteous tends to be okay as well thanks to the Sneak Attack action. Also, similar to the Paladin, it’s got certain bonuses versus specific types of enemies. In the Slayer’s case, you’ll want the Spawn Slayer subclass. Studied Spawn options (Large, Huge, Gargantuan, and Colossal) are amazing since you’ll find yourself battling bigger foes anyway (i.e., beasts, demons, and other monstrous creatures).
Anyway, let’s go to the next part of our Pathfinder: Wrath of the Righteous best classes guide to see the optimal ranged combatant options.