As one of Steam's most eagerly anticipated titles, Monster Hunter Wilds is poised to be a colossal addition to the series. For those new to the franchise, diving into Wilds might seem daunting due to the series' intricate mechanics and depth. To ease your transition, we highly recommend starting with Monster Hunter: World from 2018. This game not only mirrors the style and structure of Wilds but also serves as an excellent primer for the series' core gameplay elements.
Our recommendation isn't driven by any narrative prerequisites; rather, Monster Hunter: World offers the closest experience to what you'll encounter in Wilds. By playing World, you'll familiarize yourself with the series' often complex systems and gameplay loop, setting a solid foundation for your journey in Wilds.
Monster Hunter: World shares much in common with the upcoming Monster Hunter Wilds. | Image credit: Capcom
Why Monster Hunter: World?
You might wonder why we suggest Monster Hunter: World over the more recent Monster Hunter Rise. Although Rise is an excellent game with innovative mechanics like rideable mounts and the Wirebug grapple, it was initially designed for the Nintendo Switch, which influenced its design towards smaller, faster zones. In contrast, World boasts larger, more seamless zones that align closely with the expansive environments expected in Wilds. World emphasizes tracking monsters through a detailed ecosystem, a feature that seems to be the blueprint for Wilds' open areas.
While Wilds doesn't continue the story from World, playing World will help you understand the typical structure and elements of a Monster Hunter campaign. You'll encounter key organizations like the Hunter's Guild and your trusty Palico companions, setting the stage for what to expect in Wilds.
Practice, Practice, Practice
Beyond understanding the series' universe and campaign structure, Monster Hunter: World is invaluable for mastering the game's challenging combat. With 14 unique weapons, each with distinct playstyles, World allows you to experiment and find the weapon that best suits your style. Whether you prefer the agility of dual blades or the power of a greatsword, World is the perfect training ground to hone your skills.
Learning the intricacies of bows, swords, and switch axes is a big part of Monster Hunter. | Image credit: Capcom
In the Monster Hunter series, your weapon is your identity. Unlike traditional RPGs, your abilities and stats are tied to your weapon, functioning much like a class or job. World will teach you how to upgrade your weapons using parts from slain monsters and navigate the weapon tree to build more powerful gear.
Moreover, World emphasizes the importance of strategy over brute force. Positioning and precise attacks are crucial, with each weapon having specific strengths against different parts of a monster. For example, the Longsword excels at severing tails, while the hammer is perfect for stunning enemies. Mastering these nuances will prepare you for the strategic depth of Wilds.
Understanding the rhythm of each hunt is another advantage World offers. The Slinger, a tool on your hunter's arm, allows for tactical use of gadgets and ammo during fights. Learning to integrate Slinger use into your combat strategy will enhance your performance in Wilds. Additionally, familiarizing yourself with World's crafting system will ease your transition into Wilds' similar mechanics.
As you progress in World, you'll learn the broader gameplay loop of tracking monsters, gathering resources, and engaging in prolonged hunts. This experience will be invaluable when you step into the expansive world of Wilds.
A hunt in Monster Hunter is not a rush job; it's a carefully choreographed dance. Understanding the different facets of each monster, from the fire-breathing Anjanath to the bomb-dropping Bazelgeuse, builds essential knowledge. With Wilds aiming to capture the same sense of scope and adventure as World, the 2018 game is the ideal training ground.
Additionally, for those looking for a little extra incentive, importing save data from World into Wilds will grant you free Palico armor, and if you have data from the Iceborne expansion, you'll receive an additional armor set. It's a fun perk for dressing up your feline companion.
While it's not necessary to play previous Monster Hunter games before diving into Wilds, the unique systems and community of the series make Monster Hunter: World an excellent introduction. As Capcom continues to refine the series, starting with World will immerse you in the Monster Hunter vernacular and prepare you for Wilds' launch on February 28, 2025.
