My First Dead By Daylight Killer Or Survivor Main A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

For anyone diving into the asymmetrical horror game Dead by Daylight, one of the initial pivotal decisions is choosing a main character. The choice is between a Killer, stalking and sacrificing Survivors, or a Survivor, working collaboratively to escape the Entity's realm. Each role offers a dramatically different gameplay experience, which makes the selection of your first main character a significant step in your Dead by Daylight journey. This article delves into the fascinating world of first mains in Dead by Daylight, exploring popular choices, strategies, and the unique appeal of individual characters. As a seasoned player, reflecting on the start of my journey in this game, I want to share some insights and narratives about the significance of choosing your initial main, how this choice can shape your understanding and enjoyment of the game, and also discuss some of the popular characters that often become the first mains for many players. We will explore the diverse range of characters, from the stealthy Wraith to the altruistic Claudette Morel, and discuss the factors that make them appealing to new players. Whether you’re a new player trying to find the right fit or a veteran reminiscing about your early days, this article will provide a comprehensive overview of the Dead by Daylight experience through the lens of our first mains.

The Allure of First Mains

Choosing your first main in Dead by Daylight is more than just picking a character; it's about aligning with a playstyle and aesthetic that resonates with you. When you're new to the game, the options can be overwhelming. There’s a roster of Killers, each with unique powers and backstories, and a diverse cast of Survivors, each with their own perks and strengths. For many, the decision boils down to a character whose backstory is intriguing or whose gameplay mechanics feel intuitive. Some players are drawn to the stealth and mind games of Killers like the Wraith or the Trapper, while others prefer the collaborative and strategic gameplay of Survivors like Claudette Morel or Dwight Fairfield. The allure of a first main often lies in the initial connection a player feels with a character. This connection can be based on a character's visual design, lore, or perceived playstyle. For example, a player who enjoys horror movies might be drawn to iconic Killers like Michael Myers or Leatherface, while those who prefer a more supportive role might gravitate towards Survivors with healing or altruistic perks. This initial choice is crucial because it sets the stage for how you will learn the game’s mechanics, strategies, and overall dynamics. Your first main is often the character you use to understand the basics of looping, generator repair, chases, and map awareness. This learning curve can be steep, but the satisfaction of mastering a character and their abilities is a rewarding experience. Furthermore, the choice of a first main can significantly influence your perception of the game. Playing as a Killer, you experience the thrill of the hunt and the satisfaction of outsmarting Survivors. Playing as a Survivor, you learn the importance of teamwork, stealth, and resource management. These experiences shape your understanding of the game’s balance and the interplay between the two roles. Ultimately, the allure of a first main is about finding a character that you enjoy playing and that helps you connect with the game on a deeper level. It's about discovering your preferred playstyle and learning the ins and outs of Dead by Daylight through a character that feels like a natural fit. As you become more experienced, your main might change, but the memories and lessons learned with your first main will always hold a special place in your Dead by Daylight journey.

Popular Killer First Mains

When new players venture into the realm of Dead by Daylight, the choice of a first Killer main is a significant one. Several Killers stand out as popular choices due to their straightforward mechanics, impactful abilities, and engaging lore. These characters often provide a more accessible introduction to the Killer role, allowing players to learn the fundamentals of chasing, map control, and applying pressure. Among these popular choices, the Trapper, the Wraith, and the Hillbilly frequently top the list. These Killers offer a mix of strategic gameplay, stealth, and raw power, making them appealing to a variety of playstyles. Understanding why these Killers are favored as first mains can shed light on the elements that resonate with new players and the qualities that make a character beginner-friendly. Let’s delve into what makes each of these Killers a compelling starting point for aspiring Dead by Daylight antagonists.

The Trapper

The Trapper, one of the original Killers in Dead by Daylight, is a quintessential choice for new players due to his strategic gameplay and straightforward power. His ability, Bear Traps, allows him to place traps around the map, creating hazards that can injure or immobilize Survivors. The Trapper’s appeal lies in his ability to control areas and punish predictable Survivor behavior. For new players, this means learning to anticipate Survivor movement and strategically placing traps in high-traffic areas, such as near generators, windows, and pallets. The satisfaction of trapping a Survivor is immense, providing a tangible reward for strategic thinking and map awareness. The Trapper's gameplay encourages players to think ahead and plan their moves, which is a valuable skill in Dead by Daylight. By placing traps in strategic locations, players can disrupt Survivor progress, create diversions, and secure crucial downs. This focus on strategy makes the Trapper an excellent character for learning the importance of map control and prediction. Furthermore, the Trapper's power is relatively simple to understand, making him less overwhelming for new players. There are no complex mechanics or timing-based abilities to master; instead, the focus is on trap placement and anticipation. This simplicity allows new players to concentrate on the fundamental aspects of the Killer role, such as chasing, patrolling generators, and managing hook pressure. Despite his straightforward mechanics, the Trapper can be highly effective in the right hands. Experienced players can use advanced trap placement techniques to create intricate trap webs, effectively shutting down entire sections of the map. This depth of gameplay ensures that the Trapper remains a viable choice even as players improve their skills. Overall, the Trapper’s combination of strategic gameplay, simple mechanics, and satisfying trap-based gameplay makes him an ideal first Killer main for players looking to learn the ropes of Dead by Daylight. His ability to control the map and punish mistakes provides a rewarding experience for those who enjoy planning and executing their strategies.

The Wraith

The Wraith is another popular choice for first-time Killer mains in Dead by Daylight, known for his stealth-based gameplay and unique ability, Wailing Bell. This power allows the Wraith to cloak and uncloak, granting him near invisibility and increased movement speed while cloaked. The Wraith's appeal lies in his ability to surprise Survivors, quickly traverse the map, and apply pressure to generators. For new players, the Wraith offers a valuable introduction to the importance of stealth and map awareness in the Killer role. Cloaking allows the Wraith to approach Survivors undetected, setting up ambushes and disrupting their progress. This can be particularly effective for catching Survivors off guard while they are working on generators or healing each other. The Wraith's stealth-based gameplay also encourages players to develop a strong understanding of Survivor behavior and movement patterns. By observing how Survivors react to his presence, new players can learn to predict their actions and position themselves for successful chases. This focus on observation and prediction is a crucial skill for any Killer player. The Wraith's mobility is another significant advantage for new players. His increased movement speed while cloaked allows him to quickly traverse the map, patrolling generators and responding to Survivor activity. This mobility can be especially helpful for preventing generator rushes and maintaining pressure on the Survivors. Furthermore, the Wraith's mechanics are relatively straightforward, making him easy to pick up and play. The timing of cloaking and uncloaking is the primary skill to master, and new players can quickly learn to use this ability effectively. This simplicity allows them to focus on other aspects of the Killer role, such as chase mechanics, mind games, and hook strategies. Despite his stealth-based approach, the Wraith is a versatile Killer who can be effective in a variety of situations. Experienced players can use his cloaking ability to set up intricate ambushes, mind game Survivors at pallets and windows, and control the flow of the match. This depth of gameplay ensures that the Wraith remains a viable choice even as players become more skilled. Overall, the Wraith's combination of stealth, mobility, and straightforward mechanics makes him an excellent first Killer main for players looking to learn the fundamentals of Dead by Daylight. His ability to surprise Survivors and apply map pressure provides a rewarding experience for those who enjoy a more strategic and calculated playstyle.

The Hillbilly

The Hillbilly stands out as a popular first main for Dead by Daylight players who are drawn to high-mobility Killers with the potential for swift and devastating attacks. His signature power, the Chainsaw, allows him to sprint across the map at high speed and instantly down Survivors with a single hit. This ability makes the Hillbilly a formidable presence, capable of quickly applying pressure and controlling the flow of the game. New players often gravitate towards the Hillbilly due to the raw power and excitement of his Chainsaw. The ability to traverse the map rapidly and instantly down Survivors is incredibly appealing, providing a sense of dominance and control that can be very satisfying. However, mastering the Hillbilly's Chainsaw requires practice and precision. The Chainsaw sprint is difficult to control, especially in tight spaces, and misusing it can leave the Hillbilly vulnerable to Survivor counterplay. This learning curve can be both challenging and rewarding, as players gradually improve their control and learn to navigate the maps effectively. The Hillbilly's gameplay style encourages players to develop strong map awareness and spatial reasoning skills. To effectively use the Chainsaw, players must be able to predict Survivor movement, navigate obstacles, and execute precise turns. This focus on spatial awareness is a valuable skill in Dead by Daylight, applicable to both Killer and Survivor roles. Furthermore, the Hillbilly's Chainsaw provides a unique and engaging chase dynamic. Survivors must constantly be aware of the Hillbilly's position and anticipate his Chainsaw sprints, leading to tense and strategic encounters. This high-stakes gameplay can be incredibly thrilling, making the Hillbilly a rewarding choice for players who enjoy fast-paced action. Despite his high skill ceiling, the Hillbilly is relatively straightforward in terms of his core mechanics. The basic concept of sprinting and attacking with the Chainsaw is easy to understand, allowing new players to focus on mastering the nuances of control and timing. This simplicity, combined with the Hillbilly's raw power, makes him an accessible yet challenging first main. In summary, the Hillbilly's combination of high mobility, one-hit downs, and engaging gameplay makes him a compelling choice for new players looking to make a significant impact in their Dead by Daylight matches. His Chainsaw provides a unique and rewarding experience for those who are willing to invest the time and effort to master his abilities. The feeling of successfully maneuvering the Hillbilly's Chainsaw through a tight jungle gym or around a loop is unmatched, solidifying his place as a favorite among many first-time Killer mains.

Popular Survivor First Mains

Switching gears to the Survivor side of Dead by Daylight, the choice of a first main often reflects a player's preference for teamwork, stealth, or a combination of both. Several Survivors stand out as popular starting points, each offering a unique set of perks and playstyles that cater to different preferences. Claudette Morel, Meg Thomas, and Dwight Fairfield are frequently chosen by new players due to their accessible perks, versatile abilities, and engaging backstories. These Survivors provide a balanced introduction to the core mechanics of the Survivor role, such as generator repair, healing, and evasion. Understanding why these characters are favored as first mains can provide insight into the qualities that make a Survivor beginner-friendly and the diverse strategies that can be employed in the game. Let’s explore what makes Claudette, Meg, and Dwight compelling choices for aspiring Dead by Daylight Survivors.

Claudette Morel

Claudette Morel is a popular first main among Dead by Daylight Survivors, largely due to her emphasis on healing and support. Her unique perks, particularly Empathy and Botany Knowledge, make her an invaluable asset to her team. Empathy allows Claudette to see the auras of injured Survivors within a certain range, enabling her to quickly locate and assist teammates in need. Botany Knowledge increases healing speed, making Claudette an efficient medic. These abilities make her a natural choice for players who enjoy a supportive role and prioritize the well-being of their team. New players often gravitate towards Claudette because her perks provide a clear and impactful way to contribute to the match. Healing teammates is a straightforward objective, and Claudette's perks make her exceptionally good at it. This can be particularly reassuring for players who are still learning the game's mechanics, as they can focus on healing and avoid risky encounters with the Killer. Claudette’s playstyle emphasizes teamwork and communication, encouraging players to coordinate with their teammates and work together to survive. This collaborative aspect of gameplay can be very rewarding, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared accomplishment. By healing and supporting their teammates, Claudette players can significantly increase their team's chances of survival. Furthermore, Claudette's stealth-oriented gameplay can be beneficial for new players who are still developing their chase skills. By using her healing abilities strategically and staying out of the Killer's line of sight, Claudette can avoid unnecessary risks and contribute to the team without putting herself in danger. This stealthy approach can also help new players learn the maps and develop an understanding of Survivor movement patterns. Beyond her healing abilities, Claudette's background as a botanist adds an interesting layer to her character. Her connection to nature and her resourceful nature are reflected in her gameplay, making her a unique and engaging Survivor to play. This thematic element can further enhance the player's connection to the character, making the experience more immersive. In summary, Claudette Morel's emphasis on healing, teamwork, and stealth makes her an ideal first main for Dead by Daylight players who enjoy a supportive role. Her perks provide a clear and impactful way to contribute to the match, while her gameplay encourages collaboration and strategic thinking. For new players looking to learn the ropes of the Survivor role, Claudette offers a safe and rewarding starting point.

Meg Thomas

Meg Thomas is a favorite first main for Dead by Daylight Survivors who value speed, agility, and the thrill of the chase. Her unique perks, such as Quick & Quiet, Sprint Burst, and Adrenaline, make her a highly mobile and elusive Survivor. Quick & Quiet allows Meg to vault over obstacles and enter lockers quietly, reducing the chances of alerting the Killer. Sprint Burst provides a burst of speed when activated, enabling Meg to quickly escape from dangerous situations or cover ground efficiently. Adrenaline instantly heals Meg for one health state and grants her a speed boost when the exit gates are powered. These perks make Meg a formidable runner and a valuable asset in chase scenarios. New players often choose Meg because her perks provide immediate and noticeable benefits. Sprint Burst, in particular, is a game-changer for beginners, allowing them to escape from the Killer's grasp and avoid being caught in the early stages of the match. This can be incredibly empowering, giving new players a sense of control and confidence as they learn the game's mechanics. Meg’s playstyle encourages an aggressive and proactive approach. Her speed and agility allow her to take risks, make daring rescues, and efficiently complete objectives. This can be especially appealing to players who enjoy a high-intensity playstyle and thrive in fast-paced situations. By using her perks effectively, Meg players can outmaneuver the Killer, buy time for their teammates, and significantly contribute to the team's overall survival. Furthermore, Meg's perks are versatile and can be adapted to a variety of situations. Whether she's evading the Killer, rushing generators, or making a clutch save, Meg's abilities provide her with the tools she needs to succeed. This versatility makes her a well-rounded Survivor who can excel in any role. Beyond her gameplay abilities, Meg's background as a track star adds an interesting dimension to her character. Her athletic prowess and competitive spirit are reflected in her gameplay, making her a dynamic and engaging Survivor to play. This thematic connection can further enhance the player's investment in the character, making the experience more immersive. In summary, Meg Thomas's emphasis on speed, agility, and chase potential makes her an excellent first main for Dead by Daylight players who enjoy a high-octane playstyle. Her perks provide immediate and noticeable benefits, while her gameplay encourages an aggressive and proactive approach. For new players looking to learn the art of evasion and chase, Meg offers a thrilling and rewarding starting point.

Dwight Fairfield

Dwight Fairfield is a popular first main among Dead by Daylight Survivors, celebrated for his focus on team support and leadership abilities. His unique perks, especially Bond, Prove Thyself, and Leader, make him a valuable asset to any team, particularly for players who enjoy working collaboratively and enhancing the performance of their allies. Bond allows Dwight to see the auras of teammates within a certain range, facilitating coordination and preventing Survivors from inadvertently leading the Killer to each other. Prove Thyself increases generator repair speed when Dwight is working on a generator with other Survivors, encouraging group efforts on objectives. Leader increases the repair, healing, and sabatoge speed of teammates within a certain range of Dwight, making him a focal point for team buffs. These perks combined enable Dwight to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of his team. New players often find Dwight appealing because his perks offer clear, tangible benefits to the team, making them feel like they're making a significant contribution even while still learning the more nuanced aspects of gameplay. Using Bond, new players can avoid the Killer more effectively by being aware of their teammates' locations, and coordinating efforts on generators becomes easier with the increased repair speed from Prove Thyself. This sense of contribution can be especially rewarding for players who may feel overwhelmed by the individualistic challenges of evading the Killer alone. Dwight’s playstyle is centered around strategic teamwork and communication. He thrives in coordinated groups where his supportive abilities can be fully utilized. This makes him a natural choice for players who enjoy a more strategic, less confrontational role, preferring to buff their teammates and work on objectives rather than engage in chases with the Killer. The ability to significantly improve team performance through his presence and perks makes Dwight a powerful ally in any match. Beyond his in-game abilities, Dwight's backstory as a once timid and unassertive character who grows into a leader resonates with many players. This narrative of personal growth and leadership adds depth to his character, making him more than just a set of perks. For new players, the idea of embodying a character who can overcome fear and lead others can be particularly empowering. In summary, Dwight Fairfield's emphasis on team support, leadership, and strategic gameplay makes him an excellent choice for players new to Dead by Daylight. His perks are easy to understand and provide clear benefits to the team, fostering a sense of contribution and encouraging collaborative play. For those who prefer to support their team and strategize rather than engage in direct confrontations, Dwight offers a rewarding and effective way to learn and enjoy the game.

How Your First Main Shapes Your Gameplay

The choice of your first main in Dead by Daylight has a profound impact on how you learn and experience the game. Whether you choose a Killer or a Survivor, your first main will shape your understanding of the game's mechanics, strategies, and overall dynamics. This initial choice influences everything from your approach to chases and objectives to your perception of the game's balance and the interplay between the two roles. Understanding how your first main shapes your gameplay can help you make informed decisions about your playstyle and how to improve your skills. Your first main acts as a lens through which you view the game, affecting your understanding of its nuances and strategies. Let’s delve into the specific ways your first main can shape your gameplay experience.

Learning the Ropes

Your first main is your guide through the complex world of Dead by Daylight, helping you learn the fundamental mechanics and strategies of the game. For Killer mains, this means understanding how to patrol generators, chase Survivors effectively, and manage hook pressure. For Survivor mains, it involves learning how to repair generators, evade the Killer, and work collaboratively with teammates. The character you choose as your first main often determines the pace and style of your learning process. For example, if you choose a stealth-based Killer like the Wraith, you'll focus on learning how to approach Survivors undetected and set up ambushes. This will teach you the importance of map awareness, sound cues, and predicting Survivor movement. On the other hand, if you choose a high-mobility Killer like the Hillbilly, you'll focus on mastering chase mechanics and using your power to quickly traverse the map. This will teach you how to navigate the maps efficiently and control the flow of the game. Similarly, for Survivor mains, your first main will influence your learning priorities. If you choose a healing-focused Survivor like Claudette Morel, you'll prioritize learning how to locate and heal injured teammates, which will teach you the importance of teamwork and resource management. If you choose a fast-paced Survivor like Meg Thomas, you'll focus on mastering chase mechanics and using your speed to evade the Killer, which will teach you the importance of looping and map knowledge. Your first main also helps you develop an understanding of the game's balance and the interplay between the two roles. Playing as a Killer, you'll learn how Survivors think and act, which will help you anticipate their moves and develop effective counterstrategies. Playing as a Survivor, you'll learn how Killers apply pressure and control the map, which will help you make informed decisions about when to take risks and when to play it safe. The experience gained with your first main lays the foundation for your overall understanding of Dead by Daylight. The skills and strategies you learn will be applicable to other characters and roles, allowing you to adapt to different situations and improve your gameplay over time. This initial learning period is crucial for developing your instincts and game sense, which are essential for success in Dead by Daylight.

Developing a Playstyle

Your first main in Dead by Daylight often serves as a foundation for developing your unique playstyle. The character's strengths and weaknesses, along with your personal preferences, will influence how you approach the game and the strategies you employ. Whether you prefer a stealthy, strategic approach or a more aggressive, action-oriented style, your first main can help you discover and refine your preferred way of playing. For Killer mains, choosing a first main allows you to explore different playstyles and find the one that best suits your personality and skills. If you enjoy setting traps and controlling areas, the Trapper might be a good fit. If you prefer surprising Survivors and applying stealth tactics, the Wraith might be more your style. If you thrive on high-speed chases and quick downs, the Hillbilly might be the ideal choice. Each Killer encourages a different approach to gameplay, allowing you to experiment with various strategies and techniques. For Survivor mains, your first main can help you define your role within the team. If you enjoy supporting your teammates and providing healing, Claudette Morel might be a natural choice. If you prefer to be the team's main runner and evader, Meg Thomas might be a better fit. If you like to lead and coordinate your team, Dwight Fairfield might be the ideal Survivor for you. Your first main also influences the types of perks and strategies you prioritize. As you gain experience with your character, you'll begin to identify the perks that complement their abilities and playstyle. This will help you customize your loadout and develop a unique approach to the game. Furthermore, your first main can affect your overall mindset and attitude towards the game. If you choose a Killer with a high skill ceiling, you might be more inclined to embrace challenges and focus on improving your mechanical skills. If you choose a Survivor with strong altruistic perks, you might be more inclined to prioritize teamwork and sacrifice yourself for your teammates. The connection you feel with your first main can shape your overall enjoyment of Dead by Daylight. By choosing a character that resonates with your playstyle and personality, you'll be more likely to stay engaged and invested in the game. This connection can also motivate you to learn more about the game's lore and community, further enhancing your overall experience.

Long-Term Impact

Even as you expand your roster of playable characters in Dead by Daylight, your first main often holds a special place in your heart and continues to influence your gameplay in the long term. The lessons you learned and the habits you developed with your first main become ingrained in your playstyle, affecting how you approach other characters and roles. Your first main shapes your understanding of the game's core mechanics, strategies, and dynamics. The skills you honed and the insights you gained while playing that character will serve as a foundation for your future gameplay. For example, if you started as a Trapper, your understanding of map control and trap placement will inform your decisions when playing other Killers. If you started as Claudette Morel, your knowledge of healing and teamwork will be invaluable when playing other Survivors. Your first main also influences your character preferences and playstyle in the long term. You may find yourself gravitating towards characters who share similar traits or playstyles with your first main. This can lead to a specialization in certain roles or character types, allowing you to excel in specific areas of the game. Furthermore, your first main often serves as a benchmark for comparing other characters. You might evaluate new Killers or Survivors based on how they measure up to your first main in terms of power, versatility, and enjoyment. This comparison can help you make informed decisions about which characters to invest in and how to adapt your playstyle to different situations. In addition to gameplay, your first main can also hold sentimental value. The memories and experiences you shared with that character will remain with you, even as you progress and explore other options. Your first main represents the beginning of your Dead by Daylight journey, a time of learning, discovery, and personal growth. This sentimental connection can make your first main a character you return to from time to time, even if you've moved on to other favorites. Overall, the long-term impact of your first main in Dead by Daylight is significant. It shapes your understanding of the game, influences your playstyle, and holds a special place in your memories. The lessons you learned and the experiences you gained with your first main will continue to inform your gameplay and enhance your enjoyment of the game for years to come.

Conclusion

Choosing your first main in Dead by Daylight is a pivotal decision that sets the stage for your entire experience with the game. Whether you opt for a stealthy Killer like the Wraith, a strategic Killer like the Trapper, a supportive Survivor like Claudette Morel, or an agile Survivor like Meg Thomas, your first main will shape your understanding of the game's mechanics, strategies, and overall dynamics. The popular choices discussed in this article—the Trapper, the Wraith, and the Hillbilly for Killers, and Claudette Morel, Meg Thomas, and Dwight Fairfield for Survivors—offer a range of playstyles that cater to different preferences. These characters provide a balanced introduction to their respective roles, allowing new players to learn the ropes and develop their skills in a supportive environment. Your first main not only guides you through the game's fundamentals but also influences your long-term playstyle and character preferences. The habits and insights you gain while playing your first main become ingrained in your approach to Dead by Daylight, shaping how you evaluate other characters and adapt to different situations. Beyond gameplay, your first main often holds sentimental value, representing the beginning of your journey into the world of asymmetrical horror. The memories and experiences you shared with that character will remain with you, even as you explore other options and expand your roster. As you continue your Dead by Daylight adventure, remember the lessons you learned from your first main and how they have shaped your understanding of the game. Embrace the challenges, celebrate the victories, and cherish the connections you make along the way. Dead by Daylight is more than just a game; it's a community, a challenge, and a unique experience that begins with the choice of your first main.