Tiers, also known as ranks or levels, are rankings given to builds based on their usefulness and viability in specific environments. Tiers are not recognized by the game developers; rather, they are a system that players have created to judge each others' builds.
Placing
Builds are placed in tiers due to many factors and details. Furthermore, the way the build is used in relation to the server it is being used in is also important. For example, an ocean build would not fare well in a desert server and vice versa.
Tiers are by no means static, and different builds can change ranks over the game's development. Builds can be nerfed or buffed, and some can even be removed from the game entirely. Player usage can also affect a build's rank. As more players start to use a build or find exploits and cheats, designs are invariably going to experience turbulent popularity levels.
The Tier List/Overview
For your convenience, we have compiled a list of all the tiers. A brief overview of each tier is provided. For more information on each tier, as well as example builds, go to their respective pages linked below. There is no official E tier.
- S Tier: These builds are the absolute best and dominate the meta. They generally feature excellent stats, high survival rates, overpowered abilities, and/or a very successful playstyle. S tier builds are a must-have for any seriously competitive players. However, they can be too demanding for more casual players. Examples are Humans and Dolphins.
- A Tier: These builds are excellent and feature stats, abilities, or strategies well above the average. The builds here are definitely viable in the meta, but aren't outstanding enough to make it into S tier. Playing an A tier build is good for serious players in the game, but not competitive enough to play an S tier build. Examples are Lions and Octopuses.
- B Tier: These builds are above average but not spectacular. B tier is made up of builds that aren't extremely powerful or efficient, but are still better than most. Still viable, but far from outstanding. Expect most builds you see to be hovering around this range. A B tier build is great for casual players, but won't fare well in the competitive scene. Examples are Vultures and Rats.
- C Tier: These builds are average. They might have the potential to be in a higher tier but have factors holding them back such as lowered stats, less useful abilities, or a worse gameplan. C tier builds are still an okay choice, but it is generally recommended to pick a higher tier build. Examples are Deer and Archerfish.
- D Tier: These builds are below average and have many flaws. D tier builds are rarely a good choice, but some may get buffed in the future. D tier builds are good for experienced players to test for potential in an unexpected pick, for new players to learn basic game mechanics, or for trolling. Otherwise, it is heavily recommended to choose a higher tier build. Examples are Octopi and Rhinos.
- F Tier: These builds are seldom played seriously or successfully. They are good for a laugh or two but nowhere near viable. Unless these builds are buffed, they will not be viable for the meta anytime soon. Don't choose an F tier build unless you want to fail or you want to do a challenge run. Examples are Snails and Clams.