Capcom's hit monster-hunting franchise is back with the launch of Monster Hunter Wilds, set to officially release on February 28, 2025, across various platforms including the PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and Steam. Prior to its launch, the excitement surrounding the release has seen long lines of eager fans waiting to get their hands on their copies at gaming stores.
According to reports, pre-sales for Monster Hunter Wilds have been phenomenal, with over 1.1 million units sold, generating approximately $82.8 million. This remarkable pre-order figure has propelled Monster Hunter Wilds to the top of Steam's wish list.
The review scores for the game have also been impressive, as seen on Metacritic where it received 90 for the PS5 version, 89 for Xbox Series X/S, and 88 for PC, culminating in an average score of 89. This continuation of high performance aligns with the franchise's history.
Reviewers have noted how Monster Hunter Wilds has simplified its mechanics, making it one of the most user-friendly titles of the series. IGN commented on the game's introduction of automatic item synthesis and intuitive interface, allowing players to focus on the thrill of the hunt. Despite praise for the flexible combat system, which is described as the “best experience” of the series, some critics express concern over the game's simplified challenge level, which could make it too easy for seasoned players.
PCMag awarded the game a perfect score of 10, lauding its graphics, storytelling, and performance, particularly highlighting its dynamic weather system and monster ecology as creating an epic, cinematic experience.
The UK-based VGC analyzed how the game inherits the open-world structure of Monster Hunter World but has lowered the entry barriers significantly. They appreciate improvements to inventory management, the elimination of map area loading, and customizable interface options, even if initial cooperative online play felt cumbersome.
Additional feedback revolves around the scripted encounters during hunts, which some argue restrict exploration. Overall, the game strikes a delicate balance between being new-player-friendly and respecting traditional mechanics, thanks to innovations such as seamless hunting rhythm and additional weapon capabilities.
Capcom's approach to performance has also been meaningful. The game will offer ‘Resolution Priority’ and ‘Frame Rate Priority’ modes on consoles, with PS5 and Xbox Series X offering 4K output at 30fps or 60fps depending on the mode chosen. The developers have worked on fixing graphical errors experienced during public testing and improved overall functionality.
For both new and returning players, outdoor locations feature unique environmental conditions, from sandstorms to heavy rain, which impact gameplay. The introduction of swarm behaviors among monsters presents more significant challenges to hunters, requiring dynamic tactics.
Looking forward, Capcom plans to expand the game with numerous additional monsters, including the ‘泡狐龍’ (Bubble Fox Dragon), expected to appear as part of future updates. These enhancements will keep the environment lively, echoing the franchise’s commitment to continuous improvement.
Indeed, with its major updates such as the revamped ecosystem, new combat enhancements like precise targeting of monster weaknesses, and overall gameplay performance tweaks, Monster Hunter Wilds prepares to engage both new players and veterans alike. The game's richness and depth provide ample opportunity for hunters to immerse themselves deeply, potentially exceeding the challenges faced by previous iterations.
Players eager to join the hunt are encouraged to pre-load the game on their chosen platform, ensuring immediate access at the midnight launch.
Capcom promises to deliver one of its most expansive worlds yet, aiming to redefine the hunting genre with exhilarating new experiences. Whether tackling ‘history-laden’ monsters or exploring vast, beautifully crafted landscapes, Monster Hunter Wilds stands poised for success as it opens up the next chapter of monster hunting adventures.