Capcom has released an in-depth analysis of player behavior in Monster Hunter Wilds this week. Dubbed "The Forbidden Lands White Paper 1," this Japanese-language report examines gameplay patterns following the April 4 update, uncovering strong player preferences regarding in-game cuisine.
The April update introduced the Grand Hub, a social gathering space alongside new quests and monsters. This central location features a canteen where hunters can exchange Meal Vouchers for regional delicacies. These meals provide valuable buffs, offering hunters a convenient way to prepare before embarking on group quests without needing to visit specific regions. Players can obtain Meal Vouchers through daily login bonuses or Arena quest rewards.
Popularity Contest: Regional Cuisine Choices Revealed
According to Automaton Japan's translation, the White Paper discloses usage statistics for the four regional meal vouchers. Spring Kunafa Cuisine dominated with an overwhelming 87.8% usage rate, followed distantly by Fresh Sild Cuisine (8.2%), Colorful Suja Cuisine (3.5%), and Hot Azuz Cuisine (0.5%).
The report attributes Kunafa's popularity to five free vouchers distributed with the April update. Its Defender Meal (Hi) buff, which significantly reduces monster attack damage, likely appeals to hunters tackling difficult quests. The distribution imbalance helps explain the other cuisines' poor showing.
Player Preferences Come to Light
Pick-a-Meal Voucher usage paints a different picture of culinary preferences, allowing players to freely choose any regional dish. Here, Hot Azuz Cuisine led with 41.3%, followed by Colorful Suja (28.3%), Spring Kunafa (19%), and Fresh Sild (12%).
The data suggests Azuz's popularity stems from its Tumbler Meal (Hi) buff that enhances evasion - particularly valuable for bow users needing to fill their Trick Arrow Gauge. Suja's offensive-oriented buffs, including random attack boosts and increased wound rewards, explain its second-place position. The report notes players enjoy watching their hunters devour Suja's massive sushi rolls during the meal animation.
The Unpopular Choice: Sild's Simple Fare
While most Monster Hunter Wilds cuisine features lavish presentations (with Kunafa's feasts reportedly driving real-world demand for cheese naan in Japan), Sild's offerings contrast sharply. Located in Wyveria's barren ruins, Sild serves simple dishes featuring unripe-looking produce like white tomatoes and raw garlic bulbs - a visual letdown compared to other regions' extravagant spreads.
This aesthetic difference has earned Sild cuisine an "unappetizing" reputation among players, as evidenced by community discussions. With Capcom promising future White Papers, it will be interesting to see if these culinary preferences evolve. The game's May 28 update introduced Street Fighter's Akuma - check out what else Version 1.011 brings to the hunt.
