If you’re asking is Werewolf worth it in Dead Rails, the answer depends on how well you can time your strategy and embrace high-risk, high-reward gameplay. Introduced in the April 11 update, Werewolf is a transformation-based melee class that thrives in darkness but struggles under the sun. It’s fast, aggressive, and powerful—but only under the right conditions.
In this guide, we’ll break down how the Werewolf class works, its pros and cons, best support synergies, and whether it’s worth the 50 Bonds investment.
What Is the Werewolf Class in Dead Rails?
Werewolf is a transformation class that offers stat shifts based on time of day. After purchasing it from the Tailor in the lobby for 50 Bonds, players can activate this class and gain access to a visually distinct wolf-headed form with time-dependent bonuses and penalties.
Starting Gear:
Basic shovel as melee weapon
No passive summons or healing abilities
Heavily reliant on stat scaling
How to Unlock:
Buy for 50 Bonds
Bonds are earned from:
Successful runs
Completing challenges
Exploring high-tier areas like Town of Sterling
Werewolf Nighttime Buff – Unleashing the Beast
At night, the Werewolf becomes one of the strongest melee classes in the game thanks to the following massive buffs:
2x Speed – Greatly enhanced movement and agility
2x Health – Increased survivability in close quarters
2x Damage Output – Melee attacks deal double base damage
These buffs make the Werewolf a deadly force in nighttime runs, capable of outmaneuvering enemies, rushing objectives, or turning the tide in PvE encounters. It’s especially powerful in swarm situations or when covering large areas quickly.
🛈 Pro Tip: Use nighttime phases to chase down enemies, clean up vault areas, or dominate boss fights before dawn.
Daytime Debuff – The Tradeoff for Power
Unfortunately, sunlight is not a friend to Werewolves.
During daytime, the class experiences a 10% reduction across all major stats:
Speed -10%
Health -10%
Damage -10%
This makes daytime combat more challenging, particularly for solo players or those without healing support. While still usable, the Werewolf becomes less efficient and must play more cautiously during daylight hours.
🛈 Tip: Save high-risk fights or boss engagements for nighttime if possible, and stick with your team during the day.
Pros of Playing Werewolf
✅ Massive Power Spike at Night
Few classes can match the raw stat increases of the Werewolf during nighttime. It’s an ideal pick for fast-paced, high-pressure moments.
✅ Enhanced Speed for Map Control
The double movement speed makes Werewolf one of the best classes for repositioning, kiting, or escaping when overwhelmed.
✅ Strong in Team Play
In a group, Werewolf shines by playing aggressive frontliner, especially when paired with healers or buffers.
✅ High Engagement Potential
Werewolf is fun to play, dynamic, and highly rewarding for players who plan around time shifts and can handle fast-paced melee combat.
Weaknesses of the Werewolf Class
❌ Stat Drop During the Day
The 10% decrease in all stats is noticeable and puts Werewolf at a disadvantage in daytime combat. Poor timing can turn an advantage into a liability.
❌ No Ranged or Summon Options
Without access to projectiles or minions, Werewolf is a pure melee class, making it less versatile in situations that demand range or support.
❌ Requires Weapon Upgrade Early
Starting only with a shovel, you’ll need to find a stronger weapon quickly to maximize the class’s potential.
❌ Not Beginner-Friendly
Due to its stat dependency and time-based strength, Werewolf requires strategic awareness and is best suited for experienced players.
Best Support Pairings for Werewolf
To offset its weaknesses, pairing with the right teammate can elevate Werewolf’s performance:
Medic – Keeps Werewolf alive longer, especially during the weaker daytime.
Musician – Offers buffs that synergize with the Werewolf’s already-high speed and damage.
Sharpshooter – Covers range and helps clean up enemies the Werewolf can’t reach quickly.
Werewolf vs Other Melee Classes
| Feature | Werewolf | Necromancer | Packmaster |
|---|---|---|---|
| Night Buff | Yes (2x stats) | No | No |
| Day Penalty | Yes (-10% stats) | No | No |
| Minions | None | Yes (Undead) | Yes (Wolves) |
| Solo Viability | Medium | High-risk | High |
| Starting Gear | Shovel | Shovel | Shovel |
| Strategic Depth | High (timing-based) | High (HP-based) | Moderate |
Is Werewolf Worth the 50 Bonds?
For players who enjoy timing-based power shifts, fast melee combat, and high burst windows, the Werewolf is absolutely worth 50 Bonds. Its night transformation makes it one of the strongest damage dealers in the game under the right conditions.
However, it’s not for everyone. New players, or those who prefer consistent performance across the day-night cycle, may find the stat drop too limiting. If you’re often running solo or can’t rely on good timing, a more balanced class might serve you better.
Final Thoughts
So, is Werewolf worth it in Dead Rails? If you like speed, raw damage, and the thrill of turning into a beast under the moonlight, this class delivers one of the most engaging power curves in the game. Just be ready to adjust your playstyle during the day—and bring some backup if you’re facing tough fights in the sun.
Time it right, and Werewolf could become the deadliest class in your arsenal.