Fire Emblem: Fortune's Weave introduces a distinct class system compared to previous entries, with certain intermediate classes requiring specific conditions to unlock. Master-rank classes are locked behind Act 3 quests, while the highest tier, divine classes, can only be accessed late in the game through hidden shrines.
Changing Classes
Characters begin in either commoner or noble classes, gaining a unique class mastery skill. Advancing to more specialized classes requires obtaining certification licenses and passing exams. The game autosaves before exam results, preventing players from retrying until they succeed. It is advisable to wait until a character has at least a 75% chance of passing an exam, which is influenced by both skill rank and character level.
While there are likely optimal class choices for each character, experimentation is encouraged. For instance, an unrecruited Esmeralda may default to an armored knight, but transitioning her to a wing soldier can offer a more balanced stat distribution. Avoid assigning characters to roles they are not suited for, such as making Majide a shaman given his weaker magic growth.
Mastering a class before changing is situational. If a mastery skill is crucial for a character's build, it's worth waiting. However, if a new class offers superior abilities or stat growth, switching is beneficial, as players can always return to master previously held classes. Staying in a mastered class is also viable if no other options provide desired stat or skill advantages.
Beginner Classes
Beginner classes are automatically unlocked as players progress through each Flame Lord's story, though certification licenses are still needed for their exams. These classes include Gladiator, Hunter, Soldier, Ornius Rider, and Diviner, each with specific skill rank requirements and mastery skills.
Specialty Classes
Specialty classes become available at renown level four, with an ideal character level of 20. This tier includes classes like Myrmidon, Brigand, Pugilist, Archer, Rogue, Armored Knight, Light Cavalry, Charioteer, Armored Ornius Rider, Wing Soldier (female only), Shaman, and Priest. Each class has distinct skill rank prerequisites and unique mastery skills.
Advanced Classes
Advanced classes unlock at renown level eight, with an ideal level of 35. This tier features classes that may require specific quest completions or character route prerequisites. For example, the Dancer class is unlocked by completing the 'Great Dancer's Successor' request as Leda. Other advanced classes include Shido, Warrior, Blacksmith, Sniper, Forest Knight, Ranger, Guardian, Cataphract, Dreadnought, Bardinger, Caldarius, Dragoon, Ovate, Bishop, and Troubadour. Some of these are automatic unlocks, while others require specific character actions or quest fulfillment.
The guide is continually being updated with master- and divine-tier classes, which become accessible only in Act 3. Players should focus on recruiting characters, unlocking Boons of Salvation, and managing free time effectively during the early stages of the game. Early game activities also include strategic use of the Perch and Bird Time sessions.