Welcome to our deep dive into the Final Fantasy XIV Dawntrail 7.2 tier list, where we rank the best jobs for savage raids based on performance, utility, and meta trends. Whether you're a seasoned raider or just curious about which jobs shine in the latest patch, this guide is packed with insights to help you make informed choices. If you find this helpful, consider bookmarking our site for more FFXIV guides and visiting our store for exclusive gaming gear to enhance your experience.
Why This Tier List Matters
Patch 7.2 brings exciting changes to raid encounters, enemy designs, and job balancing. While every job can clear savage content (yes, even in week one!), some stand out due to their damage output, utility, or synergy with new mechanics. This list reflects personal insights, community data (such as FF Logs), and hands-on experience; however, always test jobs yourself to find what works. Let's break down the rankings, starting with DPS, then tanks, and finally healers.
DPS Jobs: Melee, Casters, and Ranged
Melee DPS: Viper and Samurai Lead the Pack
Melee jobs dominate the 7.2 meta, with Viper and Samurai topping the charts. Their high personal DPS and synergy with buffs from Bards and Dancers make them prime targets for early gear upgrades. Viper earns an S-tier spot for its raw power and flexibility, while Samurai follows closely at A+ for its massive burst damage. Reaper and Dragoon hold strong at A, offering solid support and consistent DPS, though they lean more on team synergy than solo output. Monk also sits at A+, with Ninja at A, but the gap between them is minimal (around 3%), so pick based on playstyle. Melee jobs are tightly balanced, so prioritize what feels fun over chasing marginal DPS gains.
Caster DPS: Black Mage Shines, Summoner Struggles
Black Mage is a standout in 7.2, thanks to improved spell timing and the removal of Umbral Ice/Fire restrictions. It's nearly as flexible as Pictomancer and boasts massive raw DPS, earning an A+ with S-tier potential as gear scales. Pictomancer, previously a meta darling, has been adjusted but remains strong at A, especially in ultimate content. However, Summoner and Red Mage lag behind at A-. Summoner's strict two-minute burst windows don't align well with new AOE phases, and Red Mage's raising tax and lack of AOE power hold it back. While both are viable for clears, they're outshined by Black Mage and Pictomancer's versatility.
Ranged DPS: Machinist Falls Behind
Ranged physical DPS jobs face challenges in 7.2. Dancer and Bard hold steady at A-, leveraging AOE potential in fights like M6S and providing valuable party buffs. However, Machinist takes a hit, landing at B. Despite decent gear, it struggles to match the DPS of even a well-played Summoner, which also brings raises and buffs. Machinist fans can still clear content, but Black Mage or Pictomancer may feel smoother. Square Enix needs to revisit the Machinist's kit to restore its competitive edge.
Tanks: Paladin and Gunbreaker Take the Lead
Tanks are well-balanced in 7.2, with minor tweaks enhancing their roles. Paladin leads with superior defensive tools and a noticeable DPS edge (7- 10k higher than others), earning an S-tier spot. Gunbreaker follows at A+, buffed for higher DPS, making it ideal for groups needing extra damage. Warrior and Dark Knight also sit at A+, with Warrior's defensive kit and Dark Knight's The Blackest Night (TBN) offering unique strengths. Dark Knight could slip to A in some scenarios, but all tanks are viable. Select options based on your group's needs and your preferred play style.
Healers: Scholar Steals the Show
Healers shine in 7.2, with Scholar taking the crown at A for its Expedient ability, which boosts movement flexibility in fast-paced fights like M8S. Its refined toolkit and strong HPS make it a meta pick. Astrologian leads in DPS at A+, with buffs that amplify Viper, Samurai, and Black Mage output. White Mage follows closely at A+, offering an easy-to-use healing kit for tricky situations. Sage also ranks at A+, complementing Scholar's shields. Every healer has strengths, so pick based on your group's composition and your comfort level.
Key Takeaways for Savage Raiders
Top Picks: Viper (S), Paladin (S), Scholar (A), Black Mage (A+).
Flexibility: Melee DPS and tanks are closely balanced—prioritise playstyle.
Underperformers: Machinist (B) and Summoner/Red Mage (A-) need buffs.
Data Caveat: FF Logs data shifts with gear scaling, so check regularly.
Play What You Love: Every job can create savage content, so enjoyment matters.
Final Fantasy XIV Dawntrail 7.2 FAQs
Which job is the best for savage raids in Dawntrail 7.2?
Viper (S-tier) leads for DPS due to its high damage and gear scaling, while Paladin (S-tier) excels for tanks, and Scholar (A) is top for healers. Select based on your role and play style.
Is Machinist worth playing in 7.2?
Machinist ranks at B-tier due to lower DPS compared to other jobs like Pictomancer or Summoner. It's still viable for clears, but different jobs may feel more rewarding.
Why is Scholar so strong in 7.2?
Scholar's Expedient ability enhances movement in fast-paced fights like M8S, and its strong HPS and shield toolkit make it a meta pick for savage raids.
Can I clear savage raids with any job?
Yes! Every job cleared savage content in week one of 7.2. Pick a job you enjoy, as skill and coordination matter more than meta rankings.
How should I utilise FF Logs to enhance job performance?
FF Logs provides objective DPS data, but it varies with gear and player skill. Check it regularly to track job performance as the patch progresses.
Thanks for Reading
This FFXIV Dawntrail 7.2 tier list provides a snapshot of the meta, but the game's balance means that your favourite job is likely viable. Stay tuned to MMOJUGG for more guides, updates, and tips to master Eorzea's challenges. Keep exploring, and we'll see you in the raids!
Buy FFXIV Gil
FFXIV Items