Citizen Sleeper 2: Starward Vector masterfully blends RPG elements with tabletop mechanics, and one of its most intriguing features is the ability to choose a specialized class at the start of each playthrough. This raises an important question for both newcomers and veterans: which class is best suited for each playstyle? After thorough analysis, we've reached a well-rounded conclusion.
Citizen Sleeper 2: Starward Vector Hands-On Preview
Game Rant gets a hands-on look at the early hours of Citizen Sleeper 2, a highly anticipated sequel to the tabletop-inspired indie RPG.
Before diving in, it's important to note that the best class in Citizen Sleeper 2 ultimately depends on the kind of adventure you're seeking. While we've ranked all the available classes, you're not bound to any specific choice. Consider this guide an overview to help you find the class that best fits your playstyle and expectations.
All Citizen Sleeper 2 Classes Explained
Citizen Sleeper 2 features three RPG classes: Operator, Machinist, and Extractor. Each class comes with a unique Push, which serves as its ultimate ability. Additionally, these classes are specialized, excelling in different aspects of gameplay—whether it's problem-solving, communication, intuitive reactions, or other key skills.
|
Class |
Specialty |
Push |
Weakness |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Operator |
Interface |
Reboot |
Endure |
|
Machinist |
Engineer |
Focus |
Engage |
|
Extractor |
Endure |
Rally |
Intuit |
Operator Class Overview
- Push: Reboot. Accrue stress for a chance to reroll your lowest dice.
- Personality: Cerebral and precise
The Operator class specializes in Interface, making it adept at working with computers, hacking into systems, and making analytical decisions. However, Operators come with a drawback—they are fragile, have lower stress tolerance, and struggle in high-pressure situations.
Machinist Class Overview
- Push: Focus. Accrue stress to boost your die's pip. If the outcome is positive, recover one stress point.
- Personality: Diligent, careful, structured
The Machinist class specializes in Engineer, making it ideal for repairs and modifications. However, its drawback lies in poor communication skills and a low Engage meter, making social interactions more challenging.
Extractor Class Overview
- Push: Rally. Accrue stress to boost your crew's dice rolls.
- Personality: Confident, self-sufficient, resilient
The Extractor class specializes in Endure, giving it a higher tolerance for pressure and stress. However, its drawback is a lack of intuition, making emotional decision-making difficult. Extractors tend to favor the most straightforward approach to conflicts rather than relying on instinct or nuance.
Citizen Sleeper 2 Class Tier List
|
Tier |
Class |
|---|---|
|
S |
Machinist |
|
A |
Extractor |
|
B |
Operator |
You could argue that the classes in Citizen Sleeper 2 are fairly balanced. However, with the new stress mechanic playing a crucial role in end-game content, one class stands out as the most valuable. The Machinist's ability to recover and heal stress by rolling dice is an invaluable advantage, especially on higher difficulty levels.
Conversely, the Operator is the least viable choice. Its inherent fragility against stress and pressure makes it unreliable, and its Push (Reroll) offers little to no utility in most situations, placing it at the bottom tier.
The Extractor, meanwhile, is a well-rounded class. While it may not be the strongest choice in the early game, its true potential shines in later stages. As you unlock higher levels and dive into end-game content, the endurance-focused nature of the Extractor proves to be a major asset.
The Best Class for Each Play Style
If you're looking for a balanced RPG experience with a reasonable challenge, the Machinist class is the best choice. It allows you to manage stress effectively through skill and analytical decision-making without lowering the game's difficulty.
For veteran players familiar with the franchise and seeking action-RPG gameplay, the Extractor class is ideal. This option lets you tackle challenges independently, reducing the need to recruit every crew member in Citizen Sleeper 2.
However, for beginner Citizen Sleeper 2 players and those planning to play in easy mode to focus on the story, the Operator class is the way to go. It grants access to the most character interactions and allows you to expand your crew significantly, ensuring you experience all major story content.
- Released
- January 31, 2025
- ESRB
- T For Teen Due To Violent References, Use of Alcohol And Tobacco, Drug Reference, Language
- Developer(s)
- Jump Over the Age
- Publisher(s)
- Fellow Traveller
