Over the last 20 years, Capcom's Monster Hunter series has captivated fans worldwide with its thrilling blend of strategic gameplay and intense monster battles. From its inception on the PlayStation 2 in 2004 to the chart-topping success of Monster Hunter World in 2018, the series has undergone significant evolution. Each game in the series brings unique elements to the table, but we've ranked them, including the major DLCs, to identify the ultimate Monster Hunter experience. Note that our rankings focus on the Ultimate versions of the games. Let's dive into the list:
Monster Hunter
Developer: Capcom Production Studio 1 | Publisher: Capcom | Release Date: September 21, 2004 (NA) | Review: IGN's Monster Hunter review
The original Monster Hunter set the stage for what would become a beloved franchise. Despite its challenging controls and steep learning curve, it introduced the core elements that define the series: battling colossal beasts with skill and survival tactics. Launched as part of Capcom's push into online gaming for the PlayStation 2, the game's focus on online event missions was groundbreaking, though the now-defunct servers outside Japan limit its replayability today.
Monster Hunter Freedom
Developer: Capcom Production Studio 1 | Publisher: Capcom | Release Date: May 23, 2006 (NA) | Review: IGN's Monster Hunter Freedom review
Monster Hunter Freedom brought the series to the PlayStation Portable, expanding its reach and refining the gameplay from Monster Hunter G. This move to handheld devices was pivotal, emphasizing co-op play and reaching a broader audience. Despite its control and camera issues, Freedom remains a significant milestone in the series, laying the groundwork for future handheld entries.
Monster Hunter Freedom Unite
Developer: Capcom Production Studio 1 | Publisher: Capcom | Release Date: June 22, 2009 (NA) | Review: IGN's Monster Hunter Freedom Unite review
An expansion of Monster Hunter Freedom 2, Freedom Unite introduced iconic monsters like Nargacuga and the beloved Felyne companions. As the largest game in the series at the time, it offered a comprehensive hunting experience that has aged well, though its challenges remain formidable.
Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate
Developer: Capcom Production Studio 1 | Publisher: Capcom | Release Date: March 19, 2013 (NA) | Review: IGN's Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate review
Built on the foundation of Monster Hunter Tri, Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate enhanced the story and difficulty curve, reintroducing beloved weapons and adding underwater combat. Despite its aging graphics and camera struggles, it remains a solid entry in the series, valued for its comprehensive gameplay and co-op features.
Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate
Developer: Capcom Production Studio 1 | Publisher: Capcom | Release Date: February 13, 2015 (NA) | Review: IGN's Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate review
A turning point for the series, Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate introduced dedicated online multiplayer and Apex Monsters, challenging even the most seasoned hunters. The addition of vertical movement expanded the gameplay significantly, making it a notable leap forward, though not the pinnacle of the series.
Monster Hunter Rise
Developer: Capcom | Publisher: Capcom | Release Date: March 26, 2021 | Review: IGN's Monster Hunter Rise review
Returning to handhelds after Monster Hunter World, Rise refined console-scale gameplay for the Nintendo Switch. Introducing Palamutes and the Wirebug mechanic, it offered faster-paced action and enhanced mobility, creating one of the best handheld Monster Hunter experiences.
Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak
Developer: Capcom | Publisher: Capcom | Release Date: June 30, 2022 | Review: IGN's Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak review
Sunbreak expanded on Rise with new locations, monsters, and a revised weapons system. Its gothic horror-inspired setting and challenging endgame content elevated the already excellent Rise, making it a standout expansion.
Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate
Developer: Capcom | Publisher: Capcom | Release Date: August 28, 2018 | Review: IGN's Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate review
A tribute to the series' past, Generations Ultimate offered extensive monster and customization options. Its Hunter Styles and Arts system provided deep gameplay variety, making it a fan-favorite and a comprehensive celebration of Monster Hunter's history.
Monster Hunter World: Iceborne
Developer: Capcom | Publisher: Capcom | Release Date: September 6, 2019 | Review: IGN's Monster Hunter World: Iceborne review
Iceborne expanded on the success of Monster Hunter World with new monsters, the Guiding Lands, and numerous quality-of-life improvements. Its new campaign and challenging hunts, including battles with Savage Deviljho and Fatalis, cemented its place as one of the series' best expansions.
Monster Hunter: World
Developer: Capcom | Publisher: Capcom | Release Date: January 26, 2018 | Review: IGN's Monster Hunter: World review
Monster Hunter: World revolutionized the series by bringing it to consoles with expansive open zones and a vibrant ecosystem. Its stunning environments, engaging story, and dynamic monster interactions set a new standard for the franchise, making it an essential experience for both newcomers and veterans.
### The 10 Best Monster Hunter GamesThe 10 Best Monster Hunter Games
That's our ranking of the 10 best Monster Hunter games of all time. Which ones have you played, and which do you think are the best? Tell us your ranking in the Tier List above. Will you be preparing to hunt again with the release of Monster Hunter Wilds? Let us know in the comments.
