In Perfect World, there are six jobs to choose from. Based on the build of your character, these six classes can be further subdivided into five basic character types, each fulfilling a specific role. These are the Tank, the Healer, the Nuker, Support, and PvP/Solo.

Tank - Traditionally the warrior class, this build is designed to take loads of damage and remain standing. A tanks primary objective is to focus all the enemies attacks on himself, so that the defensively weaker builds in the group aren't slaughtered. The drawback to this build is that this character cannot fight effectively outside of a group, because it sacrifices its damage dealing abilities for increased survivability. While any class can be substituted with a pet, tanks are the most often substituted.

Healer - The healer, as the name implies, has the primary objective of keeping the group healed. Typically a casting class, the healer is usually equipped with a wide array of support magic as well. The drawback to healers is that they cannot effectively fight outside of a group because they sacrifice their defense and/or damage dealing abilities for maximum healing ability.

Nuker - So named because this role is traditionally played by caster classes, but many other classes, such as warriors and archers have also earned the right Perfect World Gold to be called nukers. A nuker build sacrifices everything else to deal much damage per second as possible. While it is not required, nukers with area of effect (AOE) abilities are usually better. The downside to nukers is that they cannot effectively fight outside of a group because they are insufficient defense and healing capabilities.

Support - Builds that specialize only in support are very rarely played because it is the only build designed for group play that is not absolutely essential for group play. Having a support build in the group, however, can be extremely beneficial to a party. This build sacrifices everything else to have superior supportive abilities, such as buff magic. The drawback is that support builds cannot fight effectively outside of a group because it is lacking in defensive, attacking, and healing capabilities.

PvP/Solo - Whereas the other four build types are designed for group play, this build is designed specifically for those who wish to venture out into the world on their own. A PvP/Solo build is particularly useful for one on one combat, such as duels. This build is generally a mixture of the other four. The drawback is that this build will never be as good at healing, tanking, nuking, or support as its respective build, which usually causes them to be excluded from group play in the late game when monsters are so strong that a single person cannot take them down.