Dead by Daylight: Top 15 Killer Guide for New Players

Dead by Daylight, launched in 2016 with a modest roster of three killers and four survivors, has exploded in popularity. Initially conceived as a simple hide-and-seek game, it's evolved into a complex and captivating experience, boasting 26 killers and an average of 62,000 players monthly (as of July 2021). While the game offers a helpful tutorial, mastering each killer requires practice and experience, especially without the option of bot matches. This guide highlights some easier-to-learn killers for beginners, paving the way for exploring the game's diverse cast.

Updated January 15, 2025, by Rhenn Taguiam: With new licensed Killer and Original Survivor releases slated for March and April 2025, newcomers have ample time to hone their skills with existing killers. This guide focuses on several must-try killers, including iconic figures from *Dungeons & Dragons*, *Stranger Things*, and *Resident Evil*.

15. The Beast - The Demogorgon

The Demogorgon, from *Stranger Things* and *Dungeons & Dragons*, arrived in Chapter 13: Stranger Things. Its ability to open and use Portals for surprise attacks across the map makes it a challenging but rewarding killer to master. Effective Demogorgon play involves strategic Portal placement near Generators, but not too close, and using feigned Portal hops and lunges to keep Survivors off-balance.

Key Perks: Cruel Limits, Mindbreaker, Surge.

14. The Clown - Kenneth Chase, Jeffrey Hawk

The Clown, a master of pursuit, utilizes Afterpiece Tonic to release noxious gas clouds, impairing Survivor vision and movement. His Perks enhance his chase capabilities, making him ideal for players who enjoy intense pursuits. Mastering the Clown requires skillful gas cloud placement and understanding when to prioritize chases versus Generator regression.

Key Perks: Bamboozle, Coulrophobia, Pop Goes The Weasel.

13. The Mastermind - Albert Wesker

Albert Wesker, from *Resident Evil*, uses the Uroboros Virus to infect and hinder Survivors. His Virulent Bond allows powerful lunge attacks and control over distance. Effective Wesker play emphasizes efficient chase completion and strategic use of his Power to maximize the Virus's debilitating effects.

Key Perks: Awakened Awareness, Superior Anatomy, Terminus.

12. The Trapper — Evan MacMillan

A classic and beginner-friendly killer, The Trapper utilizes bear traps to control the map and restrict Survivor movement. His straightforward gameplay focuses on strategic trap placement and effective pursuit, making him an excellent choice for learning the fundamentals of Killer gameplay.

11. The Nightmare — Freddy Krueger

Freddy Krueger's Dream Demon power allows for stealthy attacks, making him accessible to beginners. His ability to become briefly invisible and his Perks that increase power as generators are repaired make him a strong option for learning the game.

10. The Cannibal — Leatherface

Leatherface's chainsaw rush is powerful, but requires careful management of its charges and the "tantrum" meter. His Barbeque & Chili perk is exceptionally useful, even for other killers. While effective against newer Survivors, he becomes more challenging against experienced players.

9. The Deathslinger

The Deathslinger's ranged harpoon gun requires aim, making him a good choice for FPS fans. His ability to reel in Survivors is powerful, but misses can be costly. Controller users may find his controls challenging due to the lack of detailed sensitivity settings in Dead by Daylight.

8. The Trickster

The Trickster's Showstopper power involves throwing blades to build a laceration meter, culminating in a powerful Main Event attack. Accuracy is crucial for success, and controller users may find the lack of fine-tuned sensitivity settings challenging.

7. The Huntress

The Huntress's throwing hatchets are intuitive but require accuracy. Her power is relatively easy to learn, but mastering its precision takes practice. Her hatchets can catch Survivors off guard, making her a formidable threat.

6. Legion

Legion's Feral Frenzy offers exceptional mobility, allowing for rapid attacks and traversal of obstacles. However, they cannot down Survivors while in Feral Frenzy, requiring strategic use of the power and follow-up attacks.

5. The Doctor

The Doctor's Madness effect is powerful but complex. His Static Blast and Shock Therapy induce Madness in Survivors, leading to various negative effects. Mastering his power requires understanding its nuances and timing.

4. The Pig — Amanda Young

The Pig's stealth and reverse bear traps offer a unique playstyle. Her ability to crouch provides Undetectable status, allowing for surprise attacks. The bear traps add a strategic layer, requiring Survivors to find keys to avoid death.

3. The Hillbilly

The Hillbilly's chainsaw rush is powerful but difficult to control. Its high speed and ability to destroy obstacles make it effective, but requires precise aiming and maneuvering to avoid collisions.

2. The Shape — Michael Myers

Michael Myers's power builds over time through stalking, culminating in a powerful one-hit down state. His gameplay is less about immediate action and more about strategic stalking and timing his Tier 3 activation.

1. The Wraith

The Wraith's cloaking ability offers a forgiving and effective playstyle for beginners. His ability to cloak and then gain a speed boost when uncloaking makes him a strong choice for learning the game.