For newcomers to Monster Hunter, the sudden success of Wilds might seem like it came out of nowhere. However, Capcom has been meticulously refining its massively successful Monster Hunter series for years, aiming for global dominance. The result is what appears to be one of the best-selling games in the series. With over a million concurrent players on Steam, it's clear that everyone is diving into Monster Hunter Wilds. If you're feeling like an outsider looking in, unsure of how or where to start, I have a secret to maximizing your Monster Hunter enjoyment with one simple trick – finding the weapon that best suits your preferred playstyle.
In Monster Hunter Wilds, players are immediately presented with an almost overwhelming arsenal of weapons, each offering a unique playstyle. Whether you're drawn to the heavy, brutish power of the Great Sword, the agility of the Dual Blades, or the precision of ranged weapons like the Bowgun, there's something for everyone.
There's a temptation – perhaps because it's Monster Hunter's most iconic weapon – to start with the big swords and switch axes. However, these cumbersome weapons require a specific approach, emphasizing deliberate swings over brute force, making them challenging for beginners. Instead, I recommend starting with something more nimble, like the Dual Blades. This choice unlocks a world of quick attacks and dodges, transforming your experience. When using a big sword, Monster Hunter echoes the strategic combat of Dark Souls; with Dual Blades, it feels more like the action-packed combat of Devil May Cry.
Compared to previous Monster Hunter games, Wilds has adjusted its combat to align more closely with modern action games. While you still need to sheathe your weapon to heal, the combat feels more intuitive for those familiar with recent action RPGs. The key difference, and why choosing the right weapon is crucial, is that unlike other action RPGs where players can customize their playstyle through skill trees, in Monster Hunter, your weapon choice defines your experience.
The decision you make at the start shapes your journey. If you crave speed and combo-heavy action, reminiscent of Dante from Devil May Cry, the Dual Blades are perfect. They rely on fast attacks, quick dodges, and building a meter that, when full, unleashes a rapid combo on downed enemies.
On the other hand, if you prefer dealing heavy damage while maintaining mobility and defense, 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.
Ranged weapons like the Bowguns are equally, if not more, powerful than melee options. When choosing these, remember to pack enough ammo and select the best types for the specific monster you're facing.
Monster Hunter Wilds offers 14 weapons, each with unique abilities and characteristics, categorized into three main types: heavy weapons that deal massive damage at the cost of speed, light weapons that excel in rapid attacks, and technical weapons. Some weapons, like the Gunlance, offer ranged capabilities, while the Charge Blade can switch between a large axe and a smaller blade. The Insect Glaive and Hunting Horn can provide unique buffs with the right combos.
With such a wide range of choices, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. However, don't worry. Take advantage of the game's tutorial to try out every weapon before committing. You'll definitely find the right fit for your playstyle, whether you want to unleash a frenzy like Dante or adopt a more strategic approach akin to Dark Souls.
