Capcom’s latest installment in the Monster Hunter series, Monster Hunter Wilds, is set to release on February 28 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, and PC. I had a hands-on experience with the game ahead of its release, and here’s what I found.
The gameplay loop remains largely intact from previous titles, with players choosing a monster to hunt, navigating the wilderness, engaging in prolonged fights, and harvesting parts to craft better equipment. However, Wilds introduces several unique touches, including an open world that allows for seamless transitions between areas without load screens.
Developers have also made significant improvements to group interactions, such as herds of monsters behaving like packs, and the inclusion of a new “Seikret” mount system that helps players navigate combat more efficiently. The team has also reduced daunting choices for new players by providing recommendations from NPCs and adding a questionnaire to help them choose their preferred weapon.
One notable feature is the ability to carry a second weapon in the saddle, which adds a new layer of strategy to endurance hunts while relieving the frustration of swapping out a non-functional weapon. The wound system has been refined, introducing exploitable weak points that can be targeted with precision.
During my gameplay experience, I encountered various creatures, including a cockatrice-like bird and a deadly hippo lizard. The game also features new “Pop-Up Camps” that serve as fast-travel hubs and allow players to swap equipment quickly.
The diversity of monsters in the series is still present in Wilds, but it’s clear that Capcom is aiming to innovate and refresh the franchise rather than stick with familiar formulas. With its open world and improved group interactions, Monster Hunter Wilds promises an engaging experience for both new and veteran players.
Source: https://www.cnet.com/tech/gaming/monster-hunter-wilds-hands-on-streamlining-hunts-for-newbies-and-veterans