The Challenger Archetype is the stereotypical melee brawler class that's surprisingly effective at fighting in close quarters. With the flexibility offered by Remnant 2's new class system, players can create their own builds using all the tools available in the game in order to make up for any possible shortcomings that an Archetype might have.

The following is a Remnant 2 build that stays true to the Challenger's core identity as a damage-dealing bruiser while solving any issues players might face when it comes to self-healing and long-range combat. Every part of this build isn't completely set in stone since hunting for specific items can be difficult, so feel free to use substitutes that achieve the same goal.

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Remnant 2 Challenger Build

First, it's important to understand that the Challenger isn't meant to take hits. Every enemy in Remnant 2 is lethal, and players will still need to dodge and use the environment to avoid attacks. The following setup makes heavy use of the Bulwark buff to mitigate incoming damage, effectively making the game more forgiving. It won't make players unkillable, but it will make cleaving through hordes of weaker enemies easier.

Nightfall is the preferred primary weapon here for its amazing damage output and lifesteal capabilities whenever its mod is active. It'll keep Remnant 2 players alive while pumping out good DPS, making it perfect for a tanky bruiser build. Twisting Wounds will increase the weapon's damage and inflict Bleeding onto targets, giving players one way to trigger Vampire Blade's damage bonus and lifesteal effect.

The Silverback Model 500 has a longer effective range than Nightfall, and it's perfect for scoring Weakspot hits with the Battery Mutator. The Blood Draw mod reels enemies into melee range while simultaneously inflicting Bleeding on them. This allows players to hit enemies with their greatsword more easily and gain Bulwark stacks from the Fae Bruiser and Guardian rings.

This loadout foregoes the Enigma in favor of a greatsword since it relies on dealing melee damage to trigger item effects. These melee weapons hit in wide swings, making them decent substitutes for the lightning-spewing Labyrinth weapon.

The Leto Mark II armor set offers the best physical protection among all sets in the game. However, it is extremely heavy and it prevents the use of dodge rolls. To counter this, use the Bright Steel Ring bought from Reggie's shop.

Gameplay-wise, engage enemies normally with Nightfall and when the fighting gets up close and personal, use Blood Draw to pull enemies in and whack them with the equipped greatsword. The damage mitigation from Bulwark and the Leto set should be enough to sustain players through chip damage. Just be careful not to get hit with hard-hitting moves or grab attacks.

Remnant 2 is available now on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S.