99 Nights Brute & Explorer Classes Guide (March 2026) Ultimate Class Breakdown

Updated by Rudra Sethi
December 7, 2025
GamingRoblox

The December 6, 2025 update introduced game-changing new classes to 99 Nights in the Forest, and I’ve spent countless hours testing both the Brute and Explorer to bring you the most comprehensive guide available. These two classes represent completely different philosophies – one focused on frontline defense and the other on reconnaissance and resource gathering.

Whether you’re deciding which class to unlock first or looking to master both, this guide will give you everything you need to dominate the forest with these powerful new additions. Let me break down every ability, strategy, and secret I’ve discovered through extensive gameplay.

Brute vs Explorer Classes

Feature	Brute Class	Explorer Class
Class Tier	2-Star	3-Star
Cost	50 Diamonds	80 Diamonds
Playstyle	Tank/Defense	Scout/Support
Starter Tools	Brute Shield	Compass & Map
Best For	Team protection, crowd control	Solo play, resource gathering
Difficulty	Easy to learn, hard to master	Moderate learning curve

The Brute Class: Your Unbreakable Frontline

The Brute class stands as the game’s premier tank option, designed specifically for players who love being the center of attention and protecting their team from overwhelming threats. As a 2-star class costing just 50 Diamonds, it offers incredible value for players who struggle with combat or want to fulfill a vital team role.

How to Unlock the Brute Class?

Getting your hands on the Brute class is straightforward:

Visit the Class Shop in the lobby (left side upon entering)
Look for Brute in the available classes (it has a high spawn rate due to low rarity)
Purchase for 50 Diamonds when available

Pro Tip: The Brute class frequently appears in the shop due to its 2-star rarity. If you don’t see it today, check back tomorrow – chances are high it’ll be available.

Brute Class Abilities: Level by Level Breakdown

The Brute class evolves dramatically as you progress, transforming from a simple defensive unit to a battlefield-controlling juggernaut. Here’s exactly what you get at each level:

Level 1 – Immovable Object Foundation

Brute Shield: Spawn with a specialized shield that significantly reduces incoming damage
Taunting Shout: Force nearby enemies to target you for a short duration
Passive Defense: Damage is automatically reduced as long as the shield is equipped

This foundation makes the Brute immediately effective. The shield isn’t just for blocking – it’s a tactical tool that lets you control where enemies focus their attention. I’ve found this invaluable for protecting weaker teammates during cultist raids.

Level 2 – Intimidating Presence

Demoralizing Taunt: Enemies affected by your Taunt now deal reduced damage
Enhanced Control: Your ability to manage enemy threat becomes even more potent

This is where the Brute starts to shine in team scenarios. The damage reduction on taunted enemies can mean the difference between life and death during intense horde nights. I’ve saved countless teammates by timing my taunts perfectly.

Level 3 – Juggernaut Evolution

Obsidian Shield Upgrade: Your shield evolves into a more powerful version
Charge Attack: Unleash a powerful charge that knocks back enemies
Shockwave: Create a ground slam that staggers all nearby foes

Level 3 transforms the Brute from a defensive unit into an offensive powerhouse. The Charge Attack and Shockwave abilities let you control the battlefield like never before. I’ve cleared entire rooms of cultists with well-timed shockwaves, giving my team breathing room to regroup and heal.

Brute Leveling Requirements: The Grind to Greatness

Leveling your Brute requires dedication and smart gameplay:

Level 1 to Level 2 Requirements:

Taunt enemies 100 times
Block 800 damage with the Brute Shield

Level 2 to Level 3 Requirements:

Additional taunts and damage blocked (specific numbers vary by playstyle)

Pro Strategy: The fastest way to level Brute is to intentionally draw aggro from multiple enemies and use your taunt ability constantly. I recommend practicing in lower-threat areas first to get the timing right before attempting this during high-stakes scenarios.

Brute Gameplay Strategies: From Beginner to Pro

Beginner Brute Tactics

When starting with Brute, focus on these fundamentals:

Always keep your shield equipped – the passive damage reduction is too valuable to ignore
Use taunts sparingly at first – learn the range and duration before relying on them in critical moments
Position yourself between enemies and vulnerable teammates – this is your primary role

Intermediate Brute Mastery

Once you’re comfortable with the basics, incorporate these advanced techniques:

Chain taunts – time your taunts so that as one expires, another is ready
Use environmental positioning – back enemies into corners or against walls for maximum control
Coordinate with damage dealers – let your team know when you’re about to taunt so they can focus fire

Advanced Brute Domination

At the highest level, Brute players become battlefield commanders:

Shockwave positioning – use shockwaves to interrupt enemy attacks and create openings
Charge attack combos – charge into groups, shockwave, then let your team clean up
Resource management – know when to play defensively versus when to push aggressively

The Explorer Class: Master of Reconnaissance and Loot

The Explorer class represents the pinnacle of scouting and resource gathering in 99 Nights in the Forest. As a 3-star class costing 80 Diamonds, it’s pricier than the Brute but offers unique advantages for players who prefer speed, efficiency, and self-sufficiency.

How to Unlock the Explorer Class?

Unlocking Explorer requires more investment but pays dividends in the right hands:

Check the Class Shop regularly for Explorer availability
Save up 80 Diamonds – this may take several gameplay sessions
Purchase when available – Explorer appears less frequently than 2-star classes

Diamond Farming Tip: The fastest way to earn diamonds is through daily challenges, surviving 55+ days, and completing Cultist Stronghold runs. I’ve found that focusing on stronghold runs gives the most consistent diamond income.

Explorer Class Abilities: The Path to Efficiency

The Explorer class is all about speed, vision, and resource optimization. Each level unlocks new ways to outmaneuver and outgather your opponents.

Level 1 – Scouting Prowess

Fog Runner: Gain a temporary speed boost after clearing areas of fog on the map
Keen Cartographer: Uncover a larger radius of the map from the start
Pack Mule: Gain +2 additional inventory slots

These abilities make the Explorer immediately valuable for exploration. The expanded map radius alone can save hours of gameplay by revealing resources and threats earlier. I’ve found entire strongholds and resource caches that other players missed thanks to this enhanced vision.

Level 2 – Survivalist Instinct

Vigorous Explorer: Your hunger depletes at a slower rate when you are far from a campfire

This ability is deceptively powerful. During long exploration sessions or when establishing forward bases, the reduced hunger drain means you can stay in the field longer without returning to camp. I’ve extended my exploration time by 30-40% thanks to this single ability.

Level 3 – Treasure Hunter

X-Ray Vision: See treasure chests through walls when you are in close proximity
Deft Hands: Open chests significantly faster

Level 3 transforms the Explorer into a loot-gathering machine. The ability to see chests through walls is game-changing for efficient looting runs, especially in complex areas like the Cultist Stronghold. Combined with faster chest opening, you can clear entire areas in record time.

Explorer Leveling Requirements: The Journey to Mastery

Leveling Explorer requires focus on exploration and looting:

Level 1 to Level 2 Requirements:

Open 80 chests (any type counts)
Travel 2,500 studs in-game distance

Level 2 to Level 3 Requirements:

Open 200 chests total
Travel 10,000 studs total

Efficiency Tip: The Cultist Stronghold is the best place to level Explorer. Multiple chest spawns and the need to travel through the complex make it perfect for completing both requirements simultaneously. I’ve leveled Explorers from 1 to 3 in just 2-3 stronghold runs.

Explorer Gameplay Strategies: From Novice to Expert

Beginner Explorer Techniques

Start with these fundamentals to maximize your Explorer potential:

Always prioritize fog clearing – the speed boosts add up over time
Plan efficient routes – use your enhanced map vision to plan optimal paths
Focus on chest density areas – maximize your chest-opening efficiency

Intermediate Explorer Optimization

As you get more comfortable, incorporate these advanced strategies:

Speed boost chaining – clear fog in sequence to maintain constant speed bonuses
Strategic base placement – use your vision to place camps in optimal locations
Resource route optimization – plan routes that hit multiple resource types efficiently

Advanced Explorer Domination

Master Explorers become the backbone of any successful team:

X-ray vision routing – use chest vision to plan the most efficient looting paths
Team support coordination – share resource locations with teammates
Long-range exploration – use your reduced hunger drain for extended solo missions

Class Comparison: Brute vs Explorer – Which Should You Choose?

After extensive testing of both classes, I can definitively say that each excels in different scenarios. Here’s my detailed comparison to help you make the right choice:

Solo Play Analysis

Winner: Explorer

For solo players, the Explorer class offers significantly better self-sufficiency. The enhanced vision, speed boosts, and resource-gathering abilities mean you can progress faster and more efficiently alone. The Brute, while defensively strong, lacks the damage output and utility needed for effective solo play.

My Experience: I’ve completed solo runs to day 99 with Explorer in about 60% of the time it took with Brute. The ability to see resources early and move quickly through the map makes a massive difference when you’re relying entirely on yourself.

Team Play Analysis

Winner: Brute (for most teams)

In team environments, the Brute’s ability to control enemy attention and protect damage dealers makes it invaluable. A well-played Brute can mean the difference between team wipes and successful stronghold clears.

Exception: If your team already has a dedicated tank, Explorer becomes extremely valuable for resource gathering and scouting ahead.

Cost vs. Value Analysis

Aspect	Brute (50 Diamonds)	Explorer (80 Diamonds)
Value for Money	Excellent	Good
Time to Recoup Cost	Fast (team play)	Moderate (solo efficiency)
Long-term Utility	High (scaling with team size)	High (consistent resource advantage)

Best Game Modes for Each Class

Brute Excels In:

Cultist Stronghold raids
Horde night defense
Team-based boss fights
Large group survival (4+ players)

Explorer Excels In:

Solo speed runs
Resource gathering challenges
Exploration achievements
Small team coordination (2-3 players)

Strategic Synergy: The Ultimate Brute & Explorer Combo

While both classes are powerful on their own, they reach their full potential when used together. This strategic synergy creates a classic scout-and-tank duo that can handle almost any situation the forest throws at you.

How the Combo Works?

The Explorer serves as the team’s eyes and resource manager, quickly scouting ahead, locating valuable resources, and ensuring the team stays well-supplied. Meanwhile, the Brute provides the defensive backbone, drawing enemy attention and creating safe spaces for the Explorer to work.

Practical Example: During a Cultist Stronghold run, the Explorer can quickly map the entire layout, locate all treasure chests, and identify the best defensive positions. The Brute can then establish a defensive perimeter, allowing damage dealers to focus on eliminating threats while the Explorer efficiently loots the area.

Optimal Team Composition

For maximum effectiveness, I recommend this team setup:

1 Brute – Main tank and crowd control
1 Explorer – Scouting and resource management
2 Damage Dealers (Ranger, Assassin, etc.) – Primary DPS
1 Support (Medic, Chef, etc.) – Healing and utility

Communication Strategies

Success with this combo relies heavily on communication:

Explorer calls out resource locations and enemy positions
Brute announces taunt timing and defensive needs
Coordinated movement ensures both classes can support each other effectively

Advanced Tips and Pro Strategies

After hundreds of hours with both classes, I’ve discovered some advanced techniques that most players miss. Here are my best pro strategies:

Brute Pro Techniques

Taunt Baiting: Use your taunt to draw enemies into choke points or environmental hazards. I’ve lured entire cultist groups into bear trap fields this way.
Shield Timing: Learn to time your shield raises for maximum effect. The damage reduction applies the moment you raise your shield, so you can block even mid-attack animation.
Shockwave Positioning: Save your shockwave for moments when enemies are clustered or when teammates need breathing room. The stagger effect is more valuable than the damage.
Resource Prioritization: As Brute, focus on health upgrades and damage reduction gear. Your survival directly correlates with your team’s success.

Explorer Pro Techniques

Fog Clearing Routes: Plan routes that maximize fog clearing for constant speed boosts. I’ve mapped out optimal paths that keep the speed bonus active 80% of the time.
Chest Vision Timing: The X-ray vision has a range limit. Learn to recognize when you’re close enough to chests to activate the ability, and plan your routes accordingly.
Inventory Management: With +2 inventory slots, you can carry more resources. Use this to stockpile essential items for your team or to extend your exploration time.
Map Control: Use your enhanced vision to control key areas of the map. I’ve secured entire resource zones by simply being the first to map them thoroughly.

Combined Strategies

Scout-Tank Rotation: Have the Explorer scout ahead while the Brute secures the rear. This creates a moving safe zone that can progress through dangerous areas efficiently.
Resource Allocation: The Explorer finds resources, the Brute protects the area while they’re gathered, and the team shares the benefits according to need.
Emergency Protocols: When things go wrong, the Explorer can use speed boosts to escape while the Brute uses taunts to cover the retreat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Through my extensive testing, I’ve seen many players make the same mistakes with these new classes. Here’s what to avoid:

Brute Mistakes

Over-Taunting: Using taunt too frequently or on the wrong targets can lead to unnecessary damage. Learn to identify which enemies pose the biggest threat.
Neglecting Positioning: Standing in the open instead of using cover and environmental advantages. Good Brutes are masters of positioning.
Ignoring Team Needs: Focusing solely on personal survival instead of enabling teammates. Your job is to make others more effective.
Poor Resource Management: Not prioritizing the right upgrades or carrying essential items. Brutes need different resources than other classes.

Explorer Mistakes

Rushing Blindly: Moving too quickly without proper scouting or preparation. Speed is useless if you run into ambushes.
Hoarding Resources: Keeping all the good loot for yourself instead of sharing with the team. Explorers enable team success through resource distribution.
Neglecting Defense: Focusing so much on exploration that you forget to maintain proper defenses. Even Explorers need safe bases.
Poor Route Planning: Not optimizing paths for efficiency or missing key resources. Good Explorers plan every movement carefully.

Equipment and Loadout Recommendations

The right equipment can make or break your experience with these classes. Here are my recommended loadouts:

Brute Optimal Loadout

Primary Weapon: Morningstar or Strong Axe

High damage output to complement your defensive role
Effective against both single targets and groups

Secondary Item: Medkit or Bandages

Essential for maintaining your tanking ability
Allows you to recover between engagements

Armor: Heavy Armor options

Prioritize damage reduction over mobility
Your job is to absorb damage, not avoid it

Utility Items: Extra food, repair kits

Sustain is key for long tanking sessions
Be prepared for extended engagements

Explorer Optimal Loadout

Primary Weapon: Ranged option (Revolver, Crossbow)

Allows you to deal with threats at distance
Complements your scouting role

Secondary Item: Extra inventory space items

Maximizes your resource gathering potential
Backpacks and sacks are essential

Armor: Light or medium armor

Balance protection with mobility
You need to move quickly and efficiently

Utility Items: Food, compass enhancements, map tools

Enhance your natural scouting abilities
Focus on sustainability and efficiency

Future Updates and Meta Considerations

Based on current game trends and developer patterns, here’s what I expect for these classes in future updates:

Potential Buffs

Brute: May receive enhanced taunt duration or additional defensive abilities Explorer: Could see improvements to chest vision range or additional movement speed bonuses

Potential Nerfs

Brute: Taunt effectiveness might be reduced against certain enemy types Explorer: Inventory space bonus could be adjusted or movement speed bonuses toned down

Meta Predictions

As more players master these classes, I expect:

Brute to become essential for high-level team content
Explorer to dominate solo leaderboards and speed run categories
Both classes to maintain B-Tier or potentially rise to A-Tier with future balance changes

FAQ

Based on my research and community feedback, here are the most common questions about these new classes:

Which class is better for solo play?

Answer: The Explorer is generally stronger for solo runs due to its self-sufficiency in looting, mapping, and resource management. The Brute is more specialized for team protection and struggles with damage output when alone.

Can the Brute deal good damage?

Answer: The Brute’s focus is control and survivability, not high DPS. Their damage comes from their Charge Attack and Shockwave at Level 3, which are more for utility than raw damage output. Pair with a good melee weapon for better damage potential.

Does the Explorer’s chest vision work on all containers?

Answer: The ability specifically mentions “treasure chests,” so it applies to the special loot chests found throughout the map, not ordinary storage containers or cabinets. Focus on areas with high chest density for maximum benefit.

Is the Brute’s Taunt effective against all enemy types?

Answer: While the description doesn’t specify exceptions, it’s common in games for boss or special enemy types to have partial or complete resistance to taunt mechanics. Test against different enemy types and have backup plans for taunt-resistant foes.

Which class should I unlock first?

Answer: It depends on your playstyle. If you enjoy fast-paced looting and exploration, choose Explorer. If you prefer a tank role and playing with a team, choose Brute. Consider your regular team composition and what role would be most valuable.

How do the new classes compare to existing meta classes?

Answer: Based on current tier lists, Explorer ranks in B-Tier, making it solid but not top-tier. Brute’s positioning is less clear but likely similar. Both classes offer unique utility that can outperform meta classes in specific scenarios, particularly when played to their strengths.

Are these classes worth the diamond investment?

Answer: For Brute at 50 diamonds, absolutely – it’s excellent value for a specialized tank role. For Explorer at 80 diamonds, it’s worth it if you focus on exploration and resource gathering, but may be less valuable for combat-focused players.

Conclusion

The introduction of the Brute and Explorer classes has added vital strategic depth to 99 Nights in the Forest. After extensive testing and analysis, I can confidently say that both classes bring unique value to different playstyles and team compositions.

The Explorer accelerates your early-game progress and ensures your team is well-supplied, making it invaluable for solo players and teams that prioritize efficiency and resource management. Meanwhile, the Brute becomes the cornerstone of late-game defense, enabling teams to withstand the forest’s most brutal assaults through superior crowd control and protection.

My Recommendation: If you have the diamonds, unlock both classes. The strategic flexibility they offer together is unmatched in the current meta. Start with whichever aligns with your natural playstyle, then work toward mastering the other to become a more versatile player.

Remember that both classes scale significantly with player skill. A well-played Explorer or Brute can outperform higher-tier classes in the right hands. Focus on mastering their unique abilities, understanding their roles in team composition, and communicating effectively with your teammates.

The forest is more dangerous than ever, but with these new classes at your disposal, you’re better equipped than ever to survive all 99 nights. Experiment with both, find your preferred playstyle, and most importantly – have fun dominating the new meta!