Best general-purpose choice
Current launch sources consistently value Axatana for flexibility. That makes it an easy recommendation for learning encounters, but its real value still depends on the Shell, Tarstones and combat rhythm you choose.
Choose by job
For bosses, prioritize a moveset you can safely punish with. For groups, range and control matter more. For a first playthrough, recovery windows and simple execution usually beat theoretical maximum damage.
How this ranking is maintained
This page is a launch snapshot, not permanent truth. Balance patches, discovered interactions and late-game testing can change the order; every revision will keep its date visible.