There are 8 different Starting Classes in Dark Souls II. While the classes determine the base stats for redistribution, there are no differences in abilities between classes, and they are only a template from which you can build your character. Most weapons and armor from other classes can be obtained relatively early in the game.

Classes in Dark Souls 2

Warrior 12 15 7 11 6 5 6 5 5 5 Knight 13 11 12 8 6 9 7 3 4 6 Swordsman 12 9 4 16 8 6 4 7 6 5 Bandit 11 9 9 14 7 3 11 1 2 8

Cleric 14 11 10 5 3 4 8 4 10 12 Sorcerer 11 3 5 7 6 8 5 14 12 4 Explorer 10 6 7 6 6 12 9 5 7 5 Deprived 1 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6

Class Comparison Table

Warrior 12 7 6 6 5 15 11 5 5 5 Knight 13 12 6 7 4 11 8 9 3 6 Swordsman 12 4 8 4 6 9 16 6 7 5 Bandit 11 9 7 11 2 9 14 3 1 8 Cleric 14 10 3 8 10 11 5 4 4 12 Sorcerer 11 5 6 5 12 3 7 8 14 4 Explorer 10 7 6 9 7 6 6 12 5 5 Deprived 1 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6

Relevant Videos:

Discussion of the different classes and which is ideal for different build types, See Builds