I had the chance to sit in on a behind-closed-doors presentation for Monster Hunter Wilds during Play Days and quickly realized that this game is so much more than what we see in trailers. Set in a sprawling open world, Monster Hunter Wilds promises to deliver an unparalleled hunting experience with seamless transitions between exploration and combat, dynamic weather systems, and a robust new crafting system. The presentation began with a look at our new handler, Gemma, who helps with the creation and upgrading of weapons and equipment. Listen, Gemma needs no introduction, so we’re just going to move past that. Right from the get-go, the game immerses you in a vast, vertical world that encourages exploration and resource gathering.
One of the standout features of Monster Hunter Wilds is the new map called the Windward Plains, which is over two times the size of previous Monster Hunter maps. This map is rich with verticality, making traversal a thrilling experience. We were shown how to collect items on the go, essential for keeping your stamina up during those long hunts. Alma, our faithful handler, tags along, providing useful information and commentary. The village we explored specializes in raising adorable creatures such as Seikrets, which do act as the in-game mount. This locale also practices animal husbandry, raising desert herbivores for their pelts and milk, adding a quaint yet lively backdrop to your adventures.
As we dove deeper into the game, we saw how seamlessly you can transition from the village to the hunting grounds without any loading screens. This fluidity extends to setting up temporary camps around the map for quick travel and resupply. Preparing for a hunt involves crafting meals that provide bonuses and skills, making each venture into the wilds feel like a strategic endeavor. The presentation also highlighted a hunt for an Alpha Doshaguma, showcasing the game’s emphasis on stealth, strategy, and dynamic combat.
The presentation went full-spectacle during a moment of the Doshaguma hunt that emphasized the dynamic weather system, particularly the sandstorms that drastically altered the landscape and gameplay. These storms can bring out different monsters, create environmental hazards, and even affect monster behavior. For example, we watched as a sandstorm stirred up a new apex predator, turning the hunt into a chaotic, multi-monster battle. I can begin to explain how incredible it was to witness this clash of two titans within this thunderstorm. I have honestly never seen something so impressive occur during a live demonstration of what a hunt could look like in Monster Hunter Wilds. I had to even ask after the presentation if this wasn’t scripted, and Capcom confirmed that what I witnessed was exclusive to this presentation.
Combat in Monster Hunter Wilds looks as engaging as ever, with a mix of old and new mechanics. We saw the use of the Greatsword and Heavy Bowgun, each with unique advantages in different situations. The introduction of mountable combat was particularly exciting, allowing for strategic positioning and high-damage attacks. The demo concluded with a successful hunt, where we carved out our rewards from the fallen beast, which can be used to craft new gear. However, the adventure doesn’t end there; the open world of Monster Hunter Wilds encourages continued exploration and discovery, even after a hunt is complete.
The presentation wrapped up with a glimpse of the game’s beautiful natural environments, from verdant plains to the diverse wildlife that inhabits them. The attention to detail in these ecosystems adds to the immersive experience, making every hunt feel like part of a living, breathing world. With its dynamic weather, seamless transitions, and deep crafting system, Monster Hunter Wilds is poised to be a standout entry in the series.
Monster Hunter Wilds will be released in 2025 on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, and PC via Steam.
