Board Thread:Dark Souls II/@comment-86.23.69.128-20140323212456/@comment-96.234.78.95-20140416043921

Yeah, Deprived is a pretty solid choice.

I think the explorer would be better if you are already familiar with the Souls' series. The Aromatic Ooze can turn that dagger into a dangerous weapon against early bosses. However, you only get a few uses of it, and the short range on the Dagger means you would have to maintain a close distance with any enemies, which could be bad if you have to roll away from an attack. The Pharros Lockstone can also lead to some good drops and the Spell Quartz ring is handy in the right situation.

Otherwise, the knight has better armor and defensive stats, and a weapon with a longer reach and a some extra power.

Depending on whether or not you can change starting stats later by giving soul vessels to the Fire Keepers, the Knight may be the better option.