For newcomers to Monster Hunter, the sudden success of Wilds might seem like it came out of nowhere. But Capcom has been meticulously refining its globally acclaimed Monster Hunter series for years, culminating in what is poised to be one of the best-selling entries in the franchise. With over a million concurrent players on Steam, Monster Hunter Wilds has captured the attention of gamers worldwide. If you're feeling like an outsider looking in, unsure of how or where to start, I have a simple yet effective tip to maximize your enjoyment: find the weapon that best aligns with your preferred playstyle.
In Monster Hunter Wilds, players are greeted with an extensive arsenal of weapons, each offering a unique approach to combat. From the heavy, powerful Great Sword to the agile Dual Blades, and even the ranged Bowgun, the choices are vast. It's tempting, especially given its iconic status, to start with the large swords and switch axes. However, these weapons require a precise and strategic approach, focusing on deliberate swings rather than brute force, which can be challenging for beginners. Instead, consider starting with something more nimble, like the Dual Blades. These weapons unlock a world of swift attacks and agile dodges, transforming your gameplay experience. While wielding a big sword might remind you of the methodical combat of Dark Souls, using Dual Blades evokes the fast-paced action of Devil May Cry.
Monster Hunter Wilds has evolved its combat mechanics to align more closely with modern action games, making it more intuitive for players familiar with recent action RPGs. However, unlike other games where customization comes through skill trees, in Monster Hunter, your weapon choice is paramount. The weapon you select at the outset will define your entire experience. If you crave speed and combo-heavy action, reminiscent of Dante from Devil May Cry, the Dual Blades are your best bet. They allow for rapid attacks, quick dodges, and the ability to build up a meter that unleashes devastating combos on downed enemies.
Conversely, if you prefer a balance of heavy damage and defensive capabilities while maintaining mobility, the Sword and Shield is an excellent starter weapon. The Lance, though less popular due to its focus on defense over flashy attacks, offers a unique combat experience with its parries and counter-attacks, rewarding practice and patience.
For those interested in ranged combat, the Bowguns are a formidable choice, often as powerful as melee weapons. When opting for these, ensure you have ample ammo and select the right type for the monster you're facing.
Monster Hunter Wilds features 14 weapons, each with distinct abilities and characteristics, categorized broadly into heavy, light, and technical types. Heavy weapons deliver massive damage at the cost of speed, light weapons excel in rapid attacks, and technical weapons offer specialized combat options. Some weapons, like the Gunlance, blend ranged and melee capabilities, while the Charge Blade can switch between a large axe and a smaller blade. The Insect Glaive and Hunting Horn provide unique buffs with the right combos.
With such a wide array of choices, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. However, don't rush your decision. Take advantage of the game's tutorial to try out each weapon before committing. This way, you'll find the perfect fit for your playstyle, whether you're aiming to unleash a frenzy like Dante or adopt a more strategic approach akin to Dark Souls.
