All Star Tower Defense X Units Tier List (December 2025) 60+ Units
If you’re diving into All Star Tower Defense X, you know that having the right units can make or break your gaming experience. After spending countless hours testing every unit across different game modes, I’ve compiled the most comprehensive tier list you’ll find anywhere. This guide will help you understand which units are worth your time, gems, and resources, and which ones you should avoid investing in.
What Makes This Tier List Different?
Unlike other tier lists that focus solely on DPS numbers, I’ve evaluated each unit based on multiple crucial factors:
- Overall Performance: How well the unit performs across all game modes
- Cost Efficiency: Return on investment for upgrade costs
- Team Synergy: How well they work with other meta units
- Versatility: Performance in different scenarios (story, infinite, trials)
- Future Proof: Potential for long-term viability as the meta evolves
This tier list is updated for UPD 8 (October 2025), featuring all the latest units including Zaruto (Beast Cloak II), Crow, and Bellma (Money Corp). I’ve cross-referenced data from the official wiki, community Discord, and top players to ensure accuracy.
Complete ASTD X Tier List UPD 8 (December 2025)
Here’s the complete tier list ranking all units from Meta (the absolute best) down to D-tier (units to avoid):
Meta Tier (God Tier Units)
These units are in a league of their own and should be your top priority if you’re lucky enough to obtain them:
| Unit | Role | Key Strengths | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Magma Marine | Hybrid | Massive burn damage, great AOE | Infinite mode, boss fights |
| Jin Sung | DPS | High bleed damage, excellent range | All game modes |
| Zorro | Hybrid | Good AOE DPS, versatile | Story mode, trials |
| Spider Boss | AOE | Huge poison damage, crowd control | Infinite, large waves |
| Spade | Support | Good SPA, burn damage | Team compositions |
| Dark Wing | DPS | High overall stats, consistent | All content |
| Ziek (Beast Giant) | Hybrid | Best hybrid stats, versatile | Mixed team compositions |
| Etri | DPS | Massive damage output, line AOE | Infinite mode |
| Onwin | Support | Decent support capabilities | Team setups |
| Killer (Serious) | DPS | Huge damage, hill unit advantage | Hill maps, boss fights |
SS-Tier (Excellent Units)
Just a step below Meta tier, these units are still top-tier choices that will carry you through most content:
| Unit | Role | Key Strengths | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nighty | DPS | Quick attacks, high DPS | Fast clearing |
| King Kaoe | Support | 75% damage boost to allies | Team compositions |
| Venus | Hybrid | Good range, AOE damage | Versatile teams |
| Ikki (Hollow) | DPS | Massive DPS, infinite range | Infinite mode |
| Water Goddess | AOE | Good AOE damage, decent range | Wave clearing |
| Borul | DPS | Good range and damage | All game modes |
| The Strongest One | DPS | High overall stats | Boss fights |
| Super God Koku | DPS | Huge DPS potential | Late-game content |
| Airren | Summoner | High DPS, summoner mechanics | Specialized teams |
| Xerxes | Support | Good overall support | Team compositions |
| Blackstache | DPS | Good DPS output | General use |
| Xero | Support | Meta support for all modes | Essential support |
S-Tier (Strong Units)
These units are solid choices that perform well in most situations:
| Unit | Role | Key Strengths | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ramen Grill Master | Economy | Generates cash every turn | Early-game farming |
| Shirtless Magician | Control | Can freeze enemies | Crowd control |
| Mercury Guardian | DPS | Solid damage from level 1 | Early progression |
| Kujo | DPS | Good DPS and SPA | General use |
| Slayer Mage | DPS | Meta for clearing Infinite | High-level content |
| Explosion Artist | AOE | Good range and DPS | Wave clearing |
| Alligator | DPS | Huge damage potential | Boss fights |
| Mysterious X | Control | Stun enemies, decent DPS | Control setups |
| Yuni | DPS | Very high DPS and SPA | Fast clearing |
| Shark Ninja | DPS | Good damage output | General use |
| Silent Swordsman | DPS | Great damage, range, AOE | All game modes |
| Zaruto (Beast Mode) | DPS | Good evolution potential | Mid to late game |
| Whitestache | DPS | Good DPS, full AOE | Wave clearing |
A-Tier (Good Units)
These units are reliable choices that won’t disappoint but aren’t game-changers:
| Unit | Role | Key Strengths | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Super Koku | DPS | Decent DPS and AOE | General use |
| Ikki (Halfmask) | DPS | Good DPS output | Early to mid game |
| Borul | DPS | Good range and DPS | All game modes |
| Nezichi | DPS | High DPS, decent SPA | Specialized teams |
| Vego (Mind) | DPS | Good DPS | General use |
| Neymar (Trapper) | DPS | Huge damage at max level | Hill maps |
| Humble-Swordman (Selection) | DPS | Bleed damage effect | Story progression |
| Anti Magician (Demon) | DPS | Good damage | Early game |
| Mbappe (Copycat) | Hybrid | Good overall for 4-star | Budget teams |
| Killer | DPS | Massive damage after upgrades | Boss fights |
| Janji | DPS | Great burn damage | Fire-themed teams |
B-Tier (Average Units)
These units are situationally useful but generally outclassed by higher tiers:
| Unit | Role | Key Strengths | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stampede | DPS | Good range, high DPS | Early game |
| Koro (Lobby) | AOE | Quick attacks, AOE | Lobby defense |
| Dual Servant | DPS | Good DPS, decent range | Early progression |
| Ice Queen | Control | Can freeze enemies | Control setups |
| Ruffy | DPS | Great range and DPS | Hill maps |
| Zaruto (Sage) | DPS | Decent DPS | Story mode |
| The Cursed One | DPS | 2.5x damage every 3rd attack | Burst damage |
| Kosuke (TS) | DPS | Great range and DPS | Long-range setups |
| Zio Brundo | DPS | Massive DPS | Specialized teams |
| Brundo | DPS | Good overall | Early game |
| Gen | DPS | Good overall for 4-star | Budget options |
C-Tier (Below Average)
These units are only recommended for specific situations or if you have nothing better:
| Unit | Role | Key Strengths | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kosuke | DPS | Basic damage | Very early game |
| Ikki (Earyl) | DPS | Good AOE damage | Story completion |
| Zaruta | DPS | Basic stats | Beginner content |
| Ruffy | DPS | Basic damage | Early progression |
| Koku | DPS | Basic damage | Starting units |
| Koro | DPS | Basic stats | Beginner content |
| Vegu | DPS | Basic damage | Early game |
| Jon Jo | DPS | High starter DPS | Very early game |
| Lami | Support | Basic support | Support roles |
D-Tier (Avoid)
These units are generally not worth investing in:
| Unit | Role | Key Issues | Better Alternatives |
|---|---|---|---|
| Captain | DPS | Low damage | Any S-tier unit |
| Anti Magician | DPS | Bad against higher enemies | A-tier alternatives |
| Humble-Swordman | DPS | Outclassed by evolved forms | Selection version |
| Uru | DPS | Poor overall stats | Most 4-star units |
| Spirit Detective | DPS | Low effectiveness | Any higher tier unit |
New Units in UPD 8
Update 8 introduced several exciting new units that have shaken up the meta:
Zaruto (Beast Cloak II)
- Type: Primal/Unbound
- Role: Main DPS
- Strengths: Beast Cloak transformation, massive damage output
- Best For: Infinite mode, boss fights
- Tier Placement: Meta/SS-tier contender
Crow
- Type: Unbound
- Role: Hybrid DPS/Support
- Strengths: Unique passives, versatility
- Best For: Team compositions, versatile setups
- Tier Placement: S-tier
Bellma (Money Corp)
- Type: 4-Star
- Role: Economy/Support
- Strengths: Money generation, perfect for economy builds
- Best For: Early-game farming, resource management
- Tier Placement: A-tier for economy focus
Other UPD 8 Additions:
- Yellow Boat: New hybrid unit
- Paper Beauty: Support unit with unique mechanics
- Kosuke (Eternal): Evolution of existing unit
- Toad Sage: New DPS unit
- Boulder Li (TS): Tank/DPS hybrid
- Snake Assistant: Support unit
- The Assistant: Utility support
Unit Evolution Guide
Understanding unit evolution is crucial for maximizing your team’s potential. Here’s how the evolution system works:
Evolution Paths
- Base Units: Starting 3-star units
- Evolved Units: 4-star versions with enhanced stats
- Ascended Units: 5-star versions with new abilities
- Primal/Unbound: Highest tier with unique mechanics
Key Evolution Chains:
- Zaruto Line: Zaruto → Zaruto (Sage) → Zaruto (Beast Mode) → Zaruto (Beast Cloak II)
- Ikki Line: Ikki (Early) → Ikki (Halfmask) → Ikki (Hollow)
- Kosuke Line: Kosuke → Kosuke (TS) → Kosuke (Eternal)
Team Composition Strategies
Building the right team is just as important as having good units. Here are some proven team compositions:
Meta Infinite Mode Team
- Magma Marine (Main DPS)
- Xero (Support)
- King Kaoe (Damage buffer)
- Spider Boss (AOE/Crowd control)
- Ramen Grill Master (Economy)
Budget F2P Team
- Mercury Guardian (Reliable DPS)
- Shirtless Magician (Control)
- Ramen Grill Master (Economy)
- Kujo (Solid DPS)
- Explosion Artist (AOE)
Hill Map Specialized Team
- Killer (Serious) (Hill DPS)
- Neymar (Trapper) (Hill specialist)
- Dark Wing (Versatile DPS)
- Xero (Support)
- Airren (Summoner support)
Game Mode Specific Tier Lists
Different game modes require different unit priorities. Here’s how units perform in specific modes:
Infinite Mode Rankings
S-Tier: Magma Marine, Slayer Mage, Spider Boss, Etri, Michishibo A-Tier: Dark Wing, The Strongest One, Silent Swordsman, Ziek (Beast Giant) B-Tier: Killer (Serious), Supreme Leader, Blackstache
Story Mode Rankings
S-Tier: Jin Sung, Zorro, Venus, Super God Koku A-Tier: Alligator, Mercury Guardian, Yuni, Shark Ninja B-Tier: Shirtless Magician, Explosion Artist, Whitestache
Trial Mode Rankings
S-Tier: Magma Marine, Spider Boss, Etri, Xero A-Tier: King Kaoe, Dark Wing, Ziek (Beast Giant), Killer (Serious) B-Tier: The Strongest One, Supreme Leader, Silent Swordsman
Resource Management Guide
Knowing which units to invest in is crucial for resource management:
Priority Investment Order
- Meta Tier Units: Always prioritize these for upgrades
- SS-Tier Units: Good secondary investments
- S-Tier Units: Invest if they fit your playstyle
- A-Tier and below: Only invest if necessary
Resource Allocation Tips
- Gems: Save for Meta/SS-tier units on limited banners
- Trait Burners: Use on your best units first
- Gold: Prioritize upgrading your main DPS units
- Materials: Save for unit evolutions you actually plan to use
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Based on community feedback and my own experience, here are the most common mistakes players make:
1. Spreading Resources Too Thin
Focus on upgrading 3-5 core units rather than having many underpowered units.
2. Ignoring Unit Synergy
Some units work exceptionally well together. Research team compositions before investing.
3. Overlooking Economy Units
Units like Ramen Grill Master may seem weak but provide crucial economic benefits.
4. Chasing “Shiny” Units
Not all rare units are good. Check tier lists before investing in new units.
5. Neglecting Evolution Paths
Some units become significantly better after evolution. Plan your evolution paths.
2025 Advanced Strategies
For experienced players looking to optimize further:
Trait Optimization
- Best Traits: Damage-focused traits generally outperform defensive ones
- Trait Rerolling: Save trait burners for Meta/SS-tier units
- Hidden Potential: Some units have hidden potential that dramatically changes their performance
Positioning Strategies
- Hill Units: Place hill-specific units on elevated terrain
- Range Optimization: Position long-range units to maximize coverage
- Support Placement: Keep support units safe while buffing DPS units
Timing and Rotation
- Ability Timing: Save unit abilities for critical moments
- Wave Management: Time unit placements for optimal wave clearing
- Resource Timing: Balance between spending and saving for critical upgrades
Future Meta Predictions
Based on current trends and developer patterns, here’s what to expect:
Rising Units
- Zaruto (Beast Cloak II): Expected to dominate the meta
- Crow: Unique mechanics may find niche uses
- Bellma (Money Corp): Economy focus may become more valuable
Potential Nerfs
- Magma Marine: May receive balance adjustments due to dominance
- Spider Boss: Poison effects might be toned down
Upcoming Content
- New Game Modes: Rumored portal system expansions
- Additional Units: More Naruto and Demon Slayer content likely
- Balance Changes: Regular meta shifts expected
FAQ
What is the best unit in All Star Tower Defense X?
Based on current UPD 8 meta, Magma Marine is considered the best overall unit due to its massive burn damage, great AOE, and versatility across all game modes.
How often is the tier list updated?
This tier list is updated monthly or immediately after major updates. UPD 8 was just released in October December 2025, so this list reflects the latest changes.
Are 4-star units worth using?
Yes, some 4-star units like Ramen Grill Master and Mercury Guardian are excellent choices, especially for F2P players or specific team compositions.
What’s the difference between Primal and Unbound units?
Primal units are equivalent to Unbound in rarity but often have unique mechanics or evolution paths. Both are among the highest tier units in the game.
How do I get Meta tier units?
Meta tier units are typically obtained through limited banners, special events, or as rare summons. Save your gems for these opportunities.
Should I evolve my units immediately?
Not always. Check the evolution path first – some units become significantly better after evolution, while others have minimal improvements.
What’s the best team for Infinite mode?
The current meta Infinite team includes Magma Marine, Xero, King Kaoe, Spider Boss, and Ramen Grill Master for optimal performance.
How important are traits?
Traits are extremely important, often making the difference between a unit being viable or not. Prioritize damage-increasing traits for your main DPS units.
Can I succeed with F2P units?
Absolutely! Units like Ramen Grill Master, Mercury Guardian, and Shirtless Magician can carry you through most content as a F2P player.
What’s the best way to farm resources?
Focus on story mode progression, daily quests, and using economy units like Ramen Grill Master to generate consistent gold income.
Conclusion
This comprehensive All Star Tower Defense X tier list should give you everything you need to make informed decisions about your unit investments and team compositions. Remember that the meta is always evolving, so stay updated with the latest changes and don’t be afraid to experiment with different team compositions.
The key to success in ASTD X is finding the right balance between following the meta and adapting to your personal playstyle. Use this tier list as a guide, but don’t be afraid to make adjustments based on what works best for you.
For more detailed guides on specific aspects of the game, check out our ASTD X Skill Tree Guide, ASTD X Trading Guide, and All Star Tower Defense X Codes for the latest working codes.
Remember to bookmark this page and check back regularly for updates as new units and balance changes continue to shape the ASTD X meta!
Stay tuned for more updates and happy tower defending!