In this modern age of gaming, I have to calm my expectations. I find myself constantly holding back hype when games are revealed that just seem too good to be true. The reveal of Monster Hunter Wilds left me with that feeling as I shook my head in disbelief at the sheer scope of this adventure. There was just no way this game could have a world that dynamic and alive; I mean, that’s what I thought until I played it.
A Seamless and Dynamic World
During my time with an early build of Monster Hunter Wilds, I was able to play the opening of the story, which caters to a more casual approach. These early cinematics teach you the ropes while not overwhelming you with a dump of systems as characters and the struggles they face are introduced.
Capcom’s latest installment feels like both a fresh start and a natural evolution of the beloved series.
Sadly, I suffer from this condition where I can’t seem to hear anything anytime Gemma is on the screen, and she plays a prominent role in the introduction. Still, this emphasizes how characters are more than just quest givers; they’re part of the adventure, and the world around them is vibrant and full of life.
While I feel like this opening has options for newcomers and seasoned players by offering you a choice on what kind of tutorial you’d like to experience, I’d say the team does a great job of making the deeper systems more approachable here. One of the best new combat options allows you to wield two primary weapons, and the seamless world design means there’s no loading between areas—something that immediately enhances the immersion. The fact that you don’t have to return to camp after every hunt is a game-changer, allowing you to stay in the thick of it and keep the momentum going.
New Gameplay Systems and Features
Outside of the story, I was allowed to take on some hunts, and that’s where I experienced something I saw during an early behind-closed-doors event. The fight was against a Doshaguma, which leads to some dynamic events that alter depending on how you approach the fight.
The seamless world design in Monster Hunter Wilds is a game-changer, allowing players to stay immersed without loading breaks.
Taking advantage of the environment and your loadout definitely speeds up the experience, and launching a flair for backup was also a huge help. While you explore, you get to choose whether to take on side hunts or focus on the main campaign and multiplayer just adds a totally new dynamic to this.
Combat and Exploration
The world of Monster Hunter Wilds is vast and varied, which instills a sense of wonder as you look out into the distance and think, “I want to go there.” And the best part? You can. The game allows you to chart your own course, and it feels incredibly satisfying.
Early Impressions and Expectations
Even though I only had a brief time with the game, it’s clear that Monster Hunter Wilds is shaping up to be something special. I didn’t get to dive into all the characters or the intricacies of camp development, but what I did experience left me eager for more. The game’s intentional design—where every swing of the sword and every strategy has room for error—creates a sense of depth that invites experimentation.
Monster Hunter Wilds might be a fresh start for some, but it’s also a welcome evolution for others. Capcom has crafted a world where your approach matters and where the adventure feels both grand and personal.
Monster Hunter Wilds is coming to PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam in 2025.
