Home > News > Horse Class Tier List: Ultimate Dead Rails Rankings

Horse Class Tier List: Ultimate Dead Rails Rankings

Author:Kristen Update:Apr 15,2025

Want to explore the vast world of *Dead Sails* and achieve impressive distances without meeting an untimely demise? You're not alone in this quest. Beyond the gear you purchase and the companions you choose, selecting the right class is crucial. To spare you the hassle of trial and error, I've compiled the **ultimate *Dead Rails* class tier list**. I've done the legwork so you don't have to, and trust me, navigating this list is far less of a headache than figuring it out on your own.

Recommended Videos

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

dead rails class tier list

Image by Destructoid

I'm well aware that my Dead Rails class tier list might stir up some debate, but it's inevitable. You simply can't go wrong with the Vampire, even after numerous updates, but the Survivalist has surged in popularity recently. I'm still disappointed that the Zombie class remains underwhelming and can't even use Snake Oil. What's the deal? While teamwork plays a role, it's not my primary focus here. Remember, the key is to enjoy the game with your friends, not just to optimize every detail.

S Tier Dead Rails Classes

dead rails class tier list

Screenshot by Destructoid

You've probably already guessed it—these classes are all about delivering raw damage, and who better than the Survivalist with its unique effect, or the lightning-fast Vampire? While the Ironclad has its merits, I believe there are only two real contenders for the top spot:

**Name****Cost****Info**
Survivalist75The Survivalist starts with a Tomahawk and becomes increasingly lethal as your health diminishes. Even at full health, you deal more damage than others, though this advantage might be nerfed soon. It excels against tough enemies that don't go down easily, providing a punch that other classes struggle to match.
Vampire75The Vampire is all about speed and aggression. Faster than a horse or a sprinting zombie, your melee attacks are devastating—most zombies fall after three swings. The downside? Sunlight is harmful, so you must stick to the shadows. Fortunately, you spawn with a Vampire Knife that heals you with each hit, making survival dependent on constant pressure.

A Tier Dead Rails Classes

dead rails class tier list

Screenshot by Destructoid

Here, we delve into the Dead Rails class tier list where the classes are still excellent but not quite as effective for pure survival. They offer solid damage output and starting gear, though they're less effective on solo runs. In my opinion, the Ironclad holds the most potential.

**Name****Cost****Info**
Ironclad100The Ironclad arrives ready for battle, clad in full armor that significantly increases your durability. However, you're about 10% slower. Not ideal for solo play; you'll need at least one ally to watch your back. In a team setting, shotguns are your best choice, as you're built for close-quarters combat.
Cowboy50The Cowboy starts strong with a revolver, two boxes of ammo, and a horse. This setup simplifies early-game encounters and provides the speed to survive chaotic situations, particularly during intense Blood Moon nights. With the Game Pass, you can sell the revolver for extra cash to enhance your initial loadout. The cost is a bargain.
Priest75The Priest comes equipped with Crucifixes and Holy Water, which are unsellable but powerful against foes. You're also immune to lightning, making storms harmless. While not suited for solo play, the Priest excels in larger squads, where their throwables can shift the battle in your favor. Consider them your spiritual support with a strong throwing arm.
Arsonist20The Arsonist thrives in chaos, starting with Molotovs and a significant boost to fire damage. They're perfect for quickly dispatching groups or clearing towns. This class is best in smaller areas where you can control the pace, and a horse enhances the hit-and-run strategy.

B Tier Dead Rails Classes

dead rails class tier list

Screenshot by Destructoid

These classes are specialists, excelling in very specific situations. For example, the Doctor is valuable due to its affordability and support capabilities, but you wouldn't rely on it for damage output. The same applies to the others, all of which remain crucial in team settings.

**Name****Cost****Info**
The Alamo50The Alamo is designed for fortification, starting with Sheet Metal, Barbed Wire, and a helmet. It's perfect for securing the Train early on. If your team needs someone to turn the cabin into a fortress and slow down enemy waves, this is your class. Not flashy, but highly effective under pressure.
Doctor15The Doctor is your lifeline in dire situations, equipped with healing supplies and the ability to revive teammates at the cost of half their own health. It's one of the most affordable classes (tied with the Miner) and invaluable in group play. Keep your Doctor alive—they can turn a potential wipe into a comeback. I recommend selling all bandages and snake oil for a $40 boost.
Miner15The Miner is tailored for resource gathering and nighttime exploration. With a helmet that illuminates the way and a Pickaxe that breaks ore in just two swings, they're the fastest at collecting materials, especially new ore types. They also come with some Coal to kickstart your journey. While not combat-focused, their utility is unparalleled.

C Tier Dead Rails Classes

dead rails class tier list

Screenshot by Destructoid

Similar to the previous section, these classes offer great utility but lack solo value. The Conductor is nearly essential for a five-player team, and the new Horse class is more of a novelty than a reliable choice.

**Name****Cost****Info**
Conductor50The Conductor is the one driving the Train, starting with Coal and capable of reaching a top speed of 84. This is crucial for escaping danger quickly. The downside? No melee weapon at the start, making them vulnerable early on. Protect them in your group—they keep everyone moving. They no longer take a health penalty, making them slightly less fragile.
HorseUnlockable through the Horsing Around gamemodeThe 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. This can be problematic in tight spaces like doorframes and the train cab. You can even ride other players, but not the train or other horses.
High Roller50The High Roller is all about quick cash, earning 1.5x the money from bags for a strong start. However, this also makes you a lightning magnet during storms, with a higher chance of getting struck. It's a high-risk, high-reward choice, perfect for those looking to stack cash early while embracing the danger.

D Tier Dead Rails Classes

dead rails class tier list

Screenshot by Destructoid

Every tier list has its bottom, and we've reached it. The default class has no specific downsides but offers no advantages either. I appreciate it as a solid starting point for beginners to learn the ropes. On the other hand, Zombies are simply terrible, and I wouldn't recommend them to anyone.

**Name****Cost****Info**
NoneFreeThe None class is the default—you start with just a shovel and whatever you can scavenge. No perks, but no drawbacks either. It's a blank canvas, ideal for saving up bonds and figuring out your preferred playstyle before committing to a class. Simple, straightforward, and effective if used correctly.
Zombie75The Zombie thrives in chaos, healing by feeding on corpses and moving stealthily due to their undead nature. You can't use Bandages or Snake Oil, but you gain stealth and sustainability in areas with many bodies. Unfortunately, it's still a hopeless choice at the moment.

That's all for now! I hope this Dead Rails class tier list helps you break records and take down those mobs effortlessly. Don't forget to use our Dead Rails codes and explore the Dead Rails challenges. Who knows what the next update will bring?