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 massively successful Monster Hunter series for years, aiming for global domination. The result? Monster Hunter Wilds, which is poised to be one of the best-selling games in the franchise.
With over a million concurrent players on Steam, Monster Hunter Wilds is capturing the attention of gamers worldwide. If you're feeling like an outsider looking in, unsure how or where to start, I have a key tip to maximize your enjoyment: find the weapon that best aligns with your preferred playstyle.
In Monster Hunter Wilds, players are greeted with a vast arsenal of weapons, each offering a unique playstyle. From heavy, powerful options like the Great Sword to more agile choices like the Dual Blades, and even ranged weapons like the Bowgun, the variety is impressive.
There's a natural inclination—perhaps because it's Monster Hunter's most iconic weapon—to start with the large swords and switch axes. However, these cumbersome weapons require a strategic approach, focusing on deliberate swings rather than brute force, which can be challenging for beginners. A better starting point might be the nimble Dual Blades, which allow for quick attacks and dodges, transforming the game's feel. When wielding a big sword, Monster Hunter can resemble the methodical combat of Dark Souls; with Dual Blades, it evokes the fast-paced action of Devil May Cry.
Monster Hunter Wilds has evolved the series' combat to align more closely with modern action games. While the necessity to sheathe your weapon to heal remains, the combat now feels more intuitive to those familiar with recent action RPGs. The crucial difference here is that, unlike other action RPGs where players customize their playstyle through skill trees, in Monster Hunter, your weapon choice is paramount.
The weapon you choose at the outset shapes your entire experience. If you crave a fast, combo-heavy style that feels like you're playing as Dante from Devil May Cry, the Dual Blades are ideal. They thrive on rapid attacks, quick dodges, and building up a meter that unleashes powerful combos on downed enemies.
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On the other hand, if you prefer a weapon that balances heavy damage with mobility and defense, the sword and shield is an excellent starting point. 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, which can be mastered with practice.
For those inclined towards ranged combat, the Bowguns offer power comparable to melee weapons. When opting for these, it's essential to carry ample ammo and select the best types suited for the monster you're facing.
Monster Hunter Wilds features 14 weapons, each with distinct abilities and characteristics, broadly categorized into heavy, light, and technical types. Some weapons blend these categories: the Gunlance has ranged capabilities, the Charge Blade can switch between a large axe and a smaller blade, and the Insect Glaive and Hunting Horn can 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. Utilize the game's tutorial to try out every weapon before committing to one. You'll find the perfect fit, whether you're aiming to unleash a Dante-like frenzy or adopt a strategic approach akin to Dark Souls.
