Last Epoch Tier List: Best Leveling Masteries Ranked

After Last Epoch's full release on February 21st, 2024, players are looking for advice on optimal mastery classes to increase the levels in the campaign smoothly. Some veteran players are familiar with the complex endgame in the Monolith of Fates, but newcomers might find the various mastery options overwhelming. This tier list ranked all mastery classes from best to worst specifically for leveling through Last Epoch.

Last Epoch Leveling Masteries Tier List

We've created a tier list to help players make early decisions, ranking mastery classes from S-tier to B-tier for fast XP gain and story progression. Keep reading for our top picks and insights on masteries in Last Epoch!

S-Tier Leveling Masteries: Fastest and Smoothest Leveling

The best leveling masteries excel in campaign content, boasting high damage and speed. They don't need much gear to perform well and smoothly transition into endgame builds:

S-Tier Leveling Masteries
Falconer		Intriguing mechanics contribute to good potential, particularly when fully developed.
Warlock		Utilizes robust curse-based mechanics and takes advantage of the potent Mad Alchemist's Ladle for a powerful and effective performance.
Shaman		Summon an army with Ravens and Wolves while obliterating foes with Primal Strike and Upheaval.
Paladin		Exhibits remarkable versatility, featuring potent skills that shine in both solo and multiplayer scenarios.

A-Tier Leveling Masteries: Fast Clear Speed

While slightly slower than S-tier, A-tier masteries make steady progress through campaign acts and into mid-tier Monoliths of Fates. Some respecing may be needed for endgame.

A-Tier Leveling Masteries
Bladedancer		While lacking standout features, remains competitive, especially with shadow dagger builds.
Druid		Demonstrates excellence in both leveling and endgame stages, showcasing formidable strength through Werebear and Swarm Blade forms
Beastmaster		SBoasts reliable pet-based gameplay featuring a diverse range of powerful companions.
Necromancer		Offers good strategic depth, particularly with skeleton builds, although slightly overshadowed by other pet classes.
Marksman		Enhanced by Falconer's explosive trap, and there's potential for further improvement with upcoming updates.
Spellblade		Provides a combination of high damage output and survivability, delivering engaging gameplay experiences.
Runemaster		Would secure an S-tier spot if not for expected nerfs, reflecting its potential strength.

B-Tier Leveling Masteries: Average Leveling Speed

While B-tier picks get the job done, they lack the damage and speed to compete with top tier choices. Often have significant weaknesses like low mobility or paper-thin defenses.

B-Tier Leveling Masteries
Forge Guard		Offers less compelling gameplay and is overshadowed by other masteries.
Lich		Relies heavily on the strength of Death Seal.
Sorcerer		Struggles with class identity issues and tends to be outperformed by other classes.
Void Knight		Previously stronger but has fallen due to recent nerfs.

That is the complete tier list for leveling Masteries in Last Epoch. It's important to remember that this tier list serves as a general guide. Variations in balance changes and individual mastery can even have different results. Success with lower-tiered classes is possible, as players might excel with these based on their own distinctive playstyles or by uncovering potent build synergies.