Dead by Daylight, released in 2016 with a modest three killers and four survivors, has exploded in popularity. Initially a simple hide-and-seek game, it's evolved into a complex and thrilling experience, boasting 26 killers and an average of 62,000 players (as of July 2021). While the game offers a basic tutorial, mastering each killer requires practice. The lack of bot matches makes learning challenging without friends, but some killers are more beginner-friendly than others.
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 explore the existing roster. Key killers to try include iconic villains from *Dungeons & Dragons*, *Stranger Things*, and *Resident Evil*.
The Beast - The Demogorgon
From the *Stranger Things* universe (and *Dungeons & Dragons*), the Demogorgon utilizes Portals to cover ground quickly, surprising Survivors. Its "Of the Abyss" power allows it to sense Survivors near Portals, enabling swift ambushes. Six Portals can be strategically placed across the map, but Survivors can seal them. Unique Perks further enhance its Portal interactions, offering advantages like generator regression and inflicting status effects.
Effective Demogorgon gameplay involves cleverly positioning Portals near generators (but not too close!), faking Portal hops, and mastering lunges to keep Survivors off balance.
The Clown - Kenneth Chase, Jeffrey Hawk
Kenneth Chase, a.k.a. "Jeffrey," the Clown, uses noxious gas to hinder Survivors' vision and movement. His Afterpiece Tonic allows for area denial, while his Perks focus on chase efficiency and generator regression. Understanding when to engage in chases versus focusing on generator regression is crucial.
Mastering the Clown requires strategic gas deployment—purple gas for zoning and yellow antidote for pre-chase preparation—and anticipating Survivor reactions to his gas clouds.
The Mastermind - Albert Wesker
Albert Wesker, from *Resident Evil*, uses the Uroboros Virus to infect and hinder Survivors. His Virulent Bond allows charged lunge attacks, auto-vaulting over obstacles, and inflicting the Hindered status effect. His Perks enhance his ability to track and control Survivors.
Wesker's strength lies in his control of distance and punishing attacks. Effective play involves knowing when to push for kills and adapting to Survivor strategies.
The Trapper — Evan MacMillan
A classic choice for beginners, The Trapper utilizes bear traps for area denial and efficient pursuit. His straightforward kit makes him easy to learn, offering a gentle introduction to the game's mechanics. His perks further enhance his ability to control the environment and punish Survivors.
Mastering The Trapper involves strategic trap placement and understanding how to effectively use his perks to control the map and pressure Survivors.
The Nightmare — Freddy Krueger
Freddy Krueger's stealth capabilities make him an excellent choice for beginners. His Dream Demon power allows for surprise attacks, while his Perks increase his effectiveness as generators are repaired and allow him to control exit gates.
Effective Freddy gameplay relies on utilizing his stealth to ambush Survivors and strategically using his Perks to control the flow of the game.
The Cannibal — Leatherface
Leatherface's chainsaw rush allows for quick downs, but mastering his tantrum mechanic is key. While effective against new Survivors, he requires skillful management against experienced players.
Balancing Leatherface's powerful chainsaw rush with his tantrum mechanic requires careful timing and an understanding of survivor behavior.
The Deathslinger
The Deathslinger's ranged attacks require precision aiming. While his perks aren't top-tier, his unique gameplay is engaging for FPS fans. However, controller users may find his aiming mechanics challenging due to the game's sensitivity settings.
Success with the Deathslinger relies heavily on accurate shots and understanding the range of his weapon.
The Trickster
The Trickster's Showstopper ability allows for ranged attacks that build up laceration, ultimately injuring or downing Survivors. Good aim is crucial, and controller users may find the aiming mechanics challenging.
Mastering the Trickster involves precise blade throwing and strategic use of his Main Event ability to maximize damage output.
The Huntress
The Huntress's throwing hatchets offer a unique challenge, requiring accurate throws. While mastering her requires practice, her intuitive power makes her a good choice for beginners. However, controller users may find precise aiming difficult.
Effective Huntress gameplay relies on accurate hatchet throws and strategic use of her lunging attack.
Legion
Legion's high mobility makes them a unique killer. Their Feral Frenzy allows for rapid attacks and traversal of obstacles, but they cannot down Survivors while in this state. While easy to learn, they are less powerful at higher skill levels.
Legion's strength lies in their mobility and ability to quickly injure multiple Survivors. However, they must be careful not to overuse their power and leave themselves vulnerable.
The Doctor
The Doctor's Madness effect is powerful but complex. His Static Blast and Shock Therapy induce Madness, leading to various negative effects on Survivors. While challenging to master, his abilities can be devastating in the right hands.
Mastering the Doctor involves understanding the different levels of Madness and how to use his abilities to maximize their impact on Survivors.
The Pig — Amanda Young
The Pig's stealth and reverse bear traps create a unique gameplay experience. Her ability to crouch and ambush Survivors makes her a formidable opponent, but requires understanding of trap placement and survivor behavior.
Effective Pig gameplay involves strategic use of stealth and reverse bear traps to create tension and control the game.
The Hillbilly
The Hillbilly's chainsaw rush is powerful but requires precise control. While easy to understand, mastering his movement and aiming is challenging, particularly for controller users.
The Hillbilly's power is all about speed and precision. Mastering his chainsaw rush requires practice and an understanding of map layouts.
The Shape — Michael Myers
Michael Myers's power builds over time, making him a late-game threat. While his stalking mechanic is simple, effective use requires strategic timing and map awareness.
Myers' power is all about patience and strategic timing. Knowing when to unleash his tier three power is crucial for success.
The Wraith
The Wraith's cloaking ability makes him a forgiving and excellent choice for beginners. His simple yet effective power allows for surprise attacks and is easy to learn, making him a perfect introduction to the killer role.
The Wraith's strength lies in his ability to surprise and ambush Survivors using his cloaking ability.
