If you’re asking is Necromancer worth it in Dead Rails, the answer depends on your playstyle, risk tolerance, and how well you can manage HP. This unique class introduces a tactical approach to combat, allowing players to raise an army of undead from defeated enemies—but at the cost of their own health.
In this guide, we’ll break down how the Necromancer class works, how to play it effectively, and whether it’s a smart investment for 35 Bonds in the current Dead Rails meta.
What is the Necromancer Class in Dead Rails?
The Necromancer is a summoning-focused class in Dead Rails that turns slain enemies into your allies. It offers:
A 25% chance to raise an undead minion with every melee kill.
No limit to the number of minions, but each summon costs 10 HP.
You start only with a shovel, making early combat challenging.
This class can be unlocked by purchasing it from the Tailor in the lobby for 35 Bonds. After purchase, you must activate it through the Tailor menu before starting a run.
How Undead Summoning Works
Each successful melee kill rolls for a 25% chance to convert the fallen enemy into an undead ally. These undead minions assist in combat, absorbing aggro and dealing damage—turning the tide of battle, especially when enemies swarm.
But here’s the tradeoff: every summon reduces your HP by 10. If you’re careless, this can quickly lead to death, especially in high-risk game modes like Nightmare where healing is scarce.
That said, the summon system has no hard cap. As long as you have HP left to spend, you can raise a legion.
Pros and Cons of Playing Necromancer
Pros:
Crowd Control Through Summons: Undead allies make it easier to deal with large groups.
Scales Naturally: The more enemies you kill, the stronger your army becomes.
Unique Tactic: Offers a completely different gameplay feel compared to DPS or tank classes.
No Bond Cost per Run: Once unlocked, you can use it freely.
Cons:
HP Cost Can Be Deadly: Especially without healing support.
Weak Early Game: Starting only with a shovel can make the first kills difficult.
Inconsistent Summons: 25% chance per kill means RNG can fail you when you need it most.
Poor Survivability in Nightmare Mode: No passive regeneration means HP loss becomes permanent without outside aid.
Is Necromancer Good for Solo Play?
Necromancer is viable for solo runs—but not forgiving. In Normal mode, slow passive HP regeneration allows you to recover between fights, making it possible to manage summon costs over time.
However, success requires:
Careful kill timing to avoid low HP during big fights.
Prioritizing weak enemies first to increase summon chances safely.
Using terrain and minions for damage absorption.
Tip: Avoid over-summoning. Just because you can doesn’t mean you should. Focus on summoning 2–4 minions early, then wait to regenerate before adding more.
How to Use Necromancer in Nightmare Mode
In Nightmare Mode, the Necromancer’s HP loss becomes its biggest liability. There’s no passive regen, and healing relies entirely on items or teammates.
If you want to make this work:
Bring a Musician: The Musician class can heal allies, making them the best companion for Necromancer.
Carry healing items and conserve them carefully.
Use summons defensively to avoid taking direct damage.
Summon only when necessary—avoid spamming if your HP is below 50%.
Best Team Setup for Necromancer:
Necromancer + Musician: Sustain-focused duo.
Necromancer + Sharpshooter: Undead tanks, ranged cleanup.
Necromancer + Demolitionist: AoE support to wipe waves before you take damage.
Should You Buy Necromancer for 35 Bonds?
If you enjoy strategic, summoning-based combat and want a class that rewards tactical thinking, Necromancer is absolutely worth 35 Bonds. It’s one of the most unique playstyles in Dead Rails and provides great value when used well.
However, it’s not beginner-friendly and requires understanding the risks and mechanics to avoid self-destructing. If you’re a newer player or prefer aggressive, fast-paced gameplay without self-harm penalties, you may be better off with classes like Sharpshooter or Demolitionist.
Final Thoughts
So, is Necromancer worth it in Dead Rails? For players who thrive on careful planning, love building armies, and can manage their HP effectively, the answer is yes. It’s a high-risk, high-reward class that transforms the battlefield with each kill. Just don’t forget: every ally you summon comes at a cost—and it might be your own life.
Use it wisely, pair it smartly, and you’ll become a one-man undead army feared across the rails.