After years of anticipation, Aion 2 is finally drawing closer to release — and NCSoft has just unveiled detailed previews of the eight available classes players can choose from at launch. As someone who has played Aion for over 15 years, I’ve seen the evolution of these archetypes firsthand, and I’m excited to dive into what’s returning, what’s new, and what might surprise even long-time fans.
In this article, I’ll break down each of the eight confirmed classes — Cleric, Chanter, Spiritmaster, Sorcerer, Ranger, Assassin, Templar, and Gladiator — along with my personal insights as a veteran player.
Ranger – The Agile Marksman
Let’s start with the Ranger, the ranged physical DPS archetype of Aion 2. Wielding a longbow as its only weapon, the Ranger emphasizes fast-paced combat, fluid movement, and high area-of-effect (AoE) damage.
What’s particularly exciting is the introduction of extendable ranged weapons. In the original Aion, only melee classes had extendable gear that offered increased range, but in Aion 2, even ranged weapons like bows will have extendable versions. This change opens up new tactical opportunities for PvP and boss fights.
Ranger combat is sleek, dynamic, and visually stunning. Classic skills like Silence Arrow make a return, allowing Rangers to mute their targets and control engagements effectively. Expect fast-paced rotations, crowd-control potential, and multiple AoE options that make this class as deadly as it is beautiful in motion.
Assassin – The Deadly Shadow
Next up is the Assassin, a melee burst DPS class that uses dual daggers. Just like in the original Aion, this version of the Assassin focuses on stealth, high mobility, and massive single-target burst damage.
One of the most intriguing updates is the party stealth mechanic. In Aion 2, the Assassin can cloak not just themselves but their entire party for a short duration (around 10 seconds). This opens up entirely new strategies in both PvP and PvE scenarios.
Combat is as fast and lethal as ever — packed with stuns, ambushes, and rune-based combos. The Assassin’s ability to leap to enemies from range and strike from behind feels reminiscent of the classic version but enhanced by smoother animations and more fluid transitions. If you’re into precision, timing, and high-risk, high-reward gameplay, Assassin will feel right at home.
Spiritmaster – The Master of Spirits
The Spiritmaster returns as a magical ranged DPS class, this time wielding dual orbs as its weapon. This class remains one of the most unique and iconic in Aion, known for its fear mechanics and summoned spirits.
In Aion 2, spirits function differently — rather than fully controllable summons, they act more like turrets that assist the Spiritmaster in combat. Despite this change, the class retains its signature playstyle: fear spells (both single-target and AoE), debuffs, and sustained magical damage.
While we’ve only seen limited footage of the Spiritmaster so far, the early previews show flashy spell effects, fast-paced casting, and plenty of tactical depth. As in the original game, Spiritmasters will likely remain powerful in both PvP and PvE thanks to their disruptive control abilities.
Gladiator – The Arena Warrior
The Gladiator in Aion 2 is a melee powerhouse — but with a major twist. Instead of wielding a polearm like in the original game, the Gladiator now uses a greatsword as its sole weapon.
This change gives the class a heavier, more decisive combat feel. From the short gameplay footage released so far, Gladiators maintain their identity as high-damage brawlers capable of knockdowns, stuns, and crowd control.
Interestingly, Gladiators in Aion 2 can choose between two skill paths — one focused on knockdowns and another on HP leeching for sustain. This flexibility should make the class effective in both PvP duels and large-scale PvE encounters.
As someone who’s mained Gladiator for years, I can say the Aion 2 version looks just as ferocious, with stunning animations and heavy-hitting, satisfying combat.
Sorcerer – The Arcane Controller
The Sorcerer is a ranged magical DPS class that wields a spellbook as its weapon. While this class has always been known for its devastating burst damage, Aion 2’s Sorcerer introduces a stronger emphasis on crowd control (CC).
Players who tested Sorcerers in early Korean and Taiwanese versions reported numerous CC tools — freezes, stuns, sleeps, and slows — in addition to their traditional high-damage spells. The class appears visually spectacular, with vibrant, colorful spell effects and “curse tree” mechanics that look both beautiful and destructive.
While some testers noted that the new Sorcerer may deal slightly less raw damage than before, its control potential makes it an invaluable team asset. Expect this to be one of the most popular caster classes at launch.
Templar – The Unbreakable Shield
No Aion roster is complete without the Templar, the definitive tank class. In Aion 2, the Templar wields a sword and shield and excels at absorbing damage, protecting allies, and managing threat.
A standout new feature is the group pull ability — not just a single-target taunt, but a skill that can drag multiple enemies toward the Templar simultaneously. This makes them incredibly effective in dungeon and raid situations.
The class design and animation quality are top-notch, featuring dynamic shield effects and powerful defensive auras. Although details on the Templar’s complete skill kit remain limited, early impressions suggest it will serve as the backbone of any serious party composition, just as it did in the original Aion.
Cleric – The Devoted Healer
The Cleric remains the main healing class of Aion 2, but this time with a more offensive edge. Wielding a mace and shield, Clerics can heal and deal damage with equal flair.
According to testers, Clerics in Aion 2 feature slightly weaker heals than their Aion 1 counterparts, but compensate with stronger DPS and summoned servants. Two types of servants exist — one for healing and another for damage.
Clerics can also dispel debuffs, maintain group sustain, and contribute meaningfully in combat. The animations are smooth, impactful, and visually stunning, making this one of the most polished and fun-looking classes in the preview footage. For players who like versatility and supporting allies while still packing a punch, Cleric is a top-tier pick.
Chanter – The Empowered Support
Finally, we have the Chanter, a staff-wielding support-DPS hybrid that’s undergone major improvements in Aion 2. This time around, Chanters offer not only buffs and healing but also significantly increased damage output compared to their original incarnation.
Classic mantras return, providing party-wide buffs, and there’s at least one AoE healing ability within a 40-meter range. But what really sets the new Chanter apart is its dynamic combat style — fluid staff attacks, powerful AoE spells, and a more aggressive rhythm.
Players who tested the class noted that it feels much more satisfying to play offensively while still offering support options. Personally, I think this might end up being one of the most balanced and rewarding classes in Aion 2.
Final Thoughts
Each of the eight Aion 2 launch classes feels thoughtfully reimagined — familiar enough for returning veterans but fresh enough to excite a new generation of players. The developers’ focus on fast-paced, fluid combat, distinct weapon restrictions, and stunning visual presentation sets a high bar for modern MMORPGs.
That’s all for today’s content! If you’re gearing up for Aion 2, make sure to stick around for more. ELD.gg is your trusted source for Aion 2 Kinah and much more.