As one of Steam's most pre-ordered games right now, *Monster Hunter Wilds* is poised to be a colossal hit. For those new to the franchise, the upcoming title might be their first foray into the world of monster hunting. While *Wilds* will likely include a comprehensive tutorial for newcomers, the series is known for its depth and complexity. To better prepare for the vast and perilous world of *Monster Hunter Wilds*, we highly recommend playing *Monster Hunter: World* from 2018 first.
Our recommendation for *Monster Hunter: World* isn't rooted in any narrative continuity or cliffhangers that might leave you confused in *Wilds*. Instead, it's because *World* closely mirrors the style and structure of *Wilds*. By playing *World*, you'll acclimate yourself to the intricate systems and gameplay loops that define the series.
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 *Monster Hunter Rise*, the more recent release. While *Rise* is an excellent game, *Wilds* appears to be a direct successor to *World* rather than *Rise*. *Rise* introduced innovative mechanics like rideable mounts and the Wirebug grapple, but it compromised on the larger, seamless zones that *World* offered. Originally designed for the Nintendo Switch, *Rise* focused on speed and smaller zones, which streamlined the gameplay loop but sacrificed the expansive scale and engaging friction that *World* provided. *Wilds* aims to recapture and expand on these elements, making *World* the ideal precursor.
*World* serves as the blueprint for *Wilds*' expansive open areas, emphasizing tracking monsters within a detailed ecosystem. These open zones, where thrilling hunts unfold across varied terrains, are where modern *Monster Hunter* truly shines. Playing *World* will prepare you for the immersive experience *Wilds* promises to deliver.
It's worth noting that *Wilds*' story is not a continuation of *World*'s narrative. However, *World*'s approach to storytelling and campaign structure will help set your expectations for *Wilds*. You'll encounter familiar elements like the Hunter's Guild and your Palico companions, but these will be standalone in *Wilds*, similar to how each *Final Fantasy* game features recurring motifs yet stands on its own.
Practice, Practice, Practice
Beyond understanding the universe and campaign structure, playing *Monster Hunter: World* first is crucial for mastering the series' challenging combat. *Wilds* features 14 weapons, each with unique playstyles and strategies, all of which are present in *World*. By diving into *World*, you can familiarize yourself with each weapon's mechanics and determine which aligns best with your playstyle, be it the agile dual blades or the formidable greatsword.
Learning the intricacies of bows, swords, and switch axes is a big part of Monster Hunter. | Image credit: Capcom
In *Monster Hunter*, your weapon defines your role on the battlefield, much like a character class in traditional RPGs. *World* teaches you how to upgrade weapons using parts from defeated monsters and how to navigate the weapon tree. It also emphasizes the importance of positioning and attack angles over sheer damage output, crucial for success in battles. For instance, the Longsword excels at severing tails, while the hammer is perfect for stunning enemies with headshots.
Additionally, *World* introduces the Slinger, a versatile tool returning in *Wilds*. Learning to use it effectively, whether to blind enemies with Flash Pods or apply chip damage with poison knives, can significantly impact your fights. Familiarity with *World*'s crafting system will also aid you in *Wilds*.
As you progress in *World*, you'll master the gameplay loop of tracking monsters, gathering resources, and crafting items. Understanding the rhythm of each hunt will be invaluable when you step into *Wilds*. Each expedition is designed to be a thoughtful, engaging experience, and *World* prepares you for the scope and scale *Wilds* aims to achieve.
AnswerSee ResultsEach hunt in *Monster Hunter* is an intricate dance, requiring time and strategy. Learning the nuances of battling creatures like the fire-breathing Anjanath or the bomb-dropping Bazelgeuse builds foundational knowledge essential for *Wilds*. And if you need another incentive to play *World*, importing your save data into *Wilds* will grant you free Palico armor, with additional sets available if you have data from the *Iceborne* expansion.
While it's not necessary to play previous *Monster Hunter* games before starting *Wilds*, the series' unique systems and mechanics are best learned through experience. As Capcom continues to refine the learning curve, playing *Monster Hunter: World* offers a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the community and understand the game's language before *Wilds* launches on February 28, 2025.
