I’ve spent countless hours surviving zombie hordes in 100 Waves Later, and let me tell you – choosing the right class can make or break your entire run. After testing every single class in various scenarios, I’m ready to share my comprehensive tier list that goes beyond basic rankings. This isn’t just another copy-paste guide; I’ll show you exactly which classes dominate the meta, why they work, and how to maximize their potential.
For those new to this Roblox sensation, 100 Waves Later (formerly Zombie RNG) drops you into increasingly difficult waves of zombies with one goal: survive as long as possible. What makes it unique is the class system – each class offers distinct perks that fundamentally change how you approach the game. With over ten classes available and Scrap being incredibly valuable, making the wrong choice can set you back days of progress.
The beauty of 100 Waves Later lies in its build variety. Weapons and skills matter, but your class determines your scaling potential and overall strategy. Some classes excel at solo pushing record waves, others shine in team runs, and a few are perfect for farming resources efficiently.
What keeps me coming back to 100 Waves Later is how each class feels genuinely different. When I first started, I made the mistake of picking classes based on cool factor alone – big mistake! After wasting thousands of Scrap on underperforming classes, I learned that understanding the meta is crucial.
My favorite aspect is how certain classes completely transform the gameplay experience. Playing as a Wastelander feels completely different from running a Boxer build, and mastering multiple classes has kept the game fresh for months. The satisfaction of finally pushing past wave 50 with a perfectly optimized build is unmatched.
Based on extensive testing across solo runs, team matches, and farming sessions, here’s my definitive ranking:
These classes dominate the current meta and should be your top priority for Scrap investment.
Wastelander – The undisputed king of flexibility and scaling
Why it’s S-tier: The extra hotbar slot alone makes this class essential. Being able to carry three weapons instead of two gives you answers for every situation. I’ve found this particularly crucial in later waves when enemy variety increases dramatically.
Pathfinder – The Super Skill specialist
Why it’s S-tier: While RNG-dependent early on, Pathfinder becomes unstoppable once the build comes together. I’ve had runs where I was swimming in Super Skills by wave 20, making boss fights trivial.
Engineer – The beginner-friendly powerhouse
Why it’s S-tier: Plus, it’s completely free! Just log in for 7 consecutive days to claim it. The turret provides consistent damage without taking up your attention or resources – perfect for learning the game mechanics.
These classes excel in specific situations but aren’t quite as universally powerful as S-tier options.
Boxer – Melee master
My take: Boxer can be incredibly fun once you master the melee-only playstyle. The health regeneration makes it surprisingly tanky, but the lack of weapon variety can hurt in later waves.
Juggernaut – The ultimate tank
My take: Perfect for players who struggle with survivability. The movement speed penalty feels brutal early on, but becomes manageable with upgrades.
Pyro – Area damage specialist
My take: While fun, Pyro currently underperforms compared to other A-tier options. The fire damage needs a buff to truly compete.
Soldier – Gun-focused specialist
My take: At only 20,000 Scrap, Soldier is an excellent stepping stone while saving for S-tier classes. The gun bonuses are solid and work well with most weapon types.
These classes work well in specific scenarios but struggle outside their niche.
Sharpshooter – Pistol specialist
My take: Limited by pistol weapon choice, which aren’t top-tier in the current meta. Still fun for pistol enthusiasts.
Medic – Team support specialist
My take: Essential for coordinated teams but struggles in solo play due to limited damage output.
Boomer – Explosive damage dealer
My take: Fun for explosive builds but expensive at 100,000 Scrap. Often outclassed by cheaper alternatives.
These classes offer minimal value for their cost and should be your last priority.
Warrior – Melee-only specialist
Why it’s C-tier: Completely outclassed by Boxer in every meaningful way. No flexibility for other playstyles.
Scientist – Crowd control specialist
Why it’s C-tier: Recent nerfs destroyed this class’s effectiveness. At 120,000 Scrap, it’s an absolute waste of resources.
Scavenger – Resource farmer
Why it’s C-tier: While useful for farming, it offers zero combat benefits. You’ll struggle to survive long enough to benefit from the resource bonuses.
Here’s where my guide goes beyond the basics – these are the strategies that separate average players from wave-pushing legends.
Wastelander Main + Pathfinder Bonus Perks This is my personal favorite combination for solo record attempts. The extra hotbar slot from Wastelander combined with Pathfinder’s Super Skill bonuses creates insane scaling potential. I’ve pushed past wave 70 consistently with this setup.
Engineer Main + Wastelander Bonus Perks Perfect for newer players or stress-free farming. The turret provides consistent damage while the extra hotbar slot gives you weapon flexibility. This combination carried me through my first 50 hours of gameplay.
Based on my testing, here are the optimal weapon choices for each tier:
S-Tier Classes:
A-Tier Classes:
After watching countless players struggle, here are the mistakes I see most often:
The game has seen several significant updates in recent months that have shaken up the class meta:
Recent Buffs:
Recent Nerfs:
Current Meta Trends:
Here are some advanced tips I’ve learned through hundreds of hours:
Engineer, without question. It’s free, provides consistent damage, and teaches core game mechanics without overwhelming new players.
Absolutely not. Focus on one S-tier class first, then expand. Scrap is too valuable to spread thin.
Only if you’ve mastered all S and A-tier classes and want to experiment. For 99% of players, they’re not worth the Scrap investment.
Wastelander’s Level 1 perk (+1 hotbar slot) is universally useful for every class and playstyle.
Focus on survival rather than kills. Longer runs naturally yield more Scrap. Engineer is excellent for consistent Scrap farming.
After extensive testing across countless runs, I can confidently say that Wastelander, Pathfinder, and Engineer form the holy trinity of 100 Waves Later classes. They offer the best combination of scaling potential, versatility, and Scrap efficiency.
Remember, the “best” class ultimately depends on your playstyle and goals. If you’re pushing for record waves solo, Wastelander is your best bet. For team runs, consider bringing a Medic or Engineer. And if you’re just starting out, Engineer will carry you through the learning curve.
The meta continues to evolve with each update, so stay flexible and don’t be afraid to experiment. What works today might need adjustment tomorrow, but the fundamental principles of class selection and build optimization will always remain crucial.
