Choosing the optimal party members in *Xenoblade Chronicles X Definitive Edition* can feel daunting with its extensive roster of characters and seemingly similar classes. Our guide aims to simplify this process by highlighting the top five party members and detailing what makes them stand out.

Elma

Elma is the first ally you recruit, but don't let that fool you into thinking she's weak. As a Full Metal Jaguar, one of the game's premier classes, Elma's AI excels in utilizing this class effectively across various scenarios. Her standout skills include Ghostwalker, which creates a decoy, and Ghost Factory, which enhances the party's evasion. Prioritize leveling these skills to maximize her utility. While her position-based attacks may lead to occasional downtime, her hybrid role as a tank, support, and offensive unit is invaluable. Elma's self-buffs, including those boosting critical hit chances, and her ability to gain 1,000 TP quickly make her indispensable, especially for story missions where she's often required.

Irina

Irina stands out as the game's premier support character, outshining even those specialized in this role like Hope. Her capabilities extend beyond mere healing; she can remove debuffs and boost the party's evasion, filling in gaps if Elma's Ghost Factory isn't available. Additionally, Irina's skills like Energy Source and Last Stand generate TP for the party at the expense of her own, making her a vital TP source. While not a front-line fighter, Irina's role is to ensure the party's longevity in battle. Pair her with at least one, ideally two, strong attackers to keep fights from dragging on.

Nagi

If you're not playing as a Duelist, consider adding Nagi to your team. As one of the few Duelists in *Xenoblade X*, he's a powerhouse in terms of damage and self-sufficiency, capable of dealing with enemies at both close and long ranges, as well as utilizing area-of-effect attacks. His signature move, Blossom Dance, is particularly potent, ignoring enemy resistances and potentially downing tough foes in a few hits. To maximize Nagi's effectiveness, pair him with a support character like Irina or use Mastermind skills to debuff enemies.

Mia

Despite being a Psycorruptor, Mia embodies the versatility of a Drifter. She excels in multiple roles, from debuffing enemies to dealing significant damage with attacks like Beam Barrage and Myopic Screen, the latter of which can cause blackout. Her attacks gain power under the influence of an active aura, and she can even topple enemies. However, Mia lacks defensive and healing capabilities, making it essential to include a party member who can cover these areas.

H.B.

H.B. serves as an excellent alternative to Lin when you need enhanced defense. As a Shield Trooper+, he surpasses Lin in every aspect, from attracting enemy attention to generating TP with his taunt attack. His abilities extend to increasing debuff resistance, boosting ranged attack power, toppling enemies, inflicting debuffs, and creating a robust shield. H.B. is a top-tier defender, crucial for surviving outside the main storyline. Make sure to complete his affinity mission to recruit this valuable asset to your team.