For newcomers to the Monster Hunter series, the meteoric rise of Monster Hunter Wilds might seem unexpected. However, Capcom has been meticulously refining the Monster Hunter franchise for years, aiming for global success. The result is what appears to be one of the best-selling entries in the series to date.
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, unsure of how to dive in, I have a simple yet effective tip to enhance your Monster Hunter experience: find the weapon that aligns perfectly with your preferred playstyle.
In Monster Hunter Wilds, players are greeted with a vast array of weapons right from the start. Each weapon offers a unique playstyle, ranging from the heavy, powerful Great Sword to the agile Dual Blades, and even the ranged Bowgun. The choice can be overwhelming, but it's crucial for tailoring your gameplay.
There's a natural inclination to gravitate towards the iconic large swords and switch axes, but these weapons require a specific approach, focusing on deliberate swings rather than brute force. They can be challenging for beginners. Instead, consider starting with something more agile, like the Dual Blades. These weapons unlock a realm of swift attacks and nimble dodges, transforming your experience. While wielding a big sword might remind you of the strategic combat in Dark Souls, using Dual Blades evokes the fast-paced action of Devil May Cry.
Monster Hunter Wilds has evolved its combat mechanics to align more closely with modern action games. Although 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 so important, is that unlike other action RPGs where customization comes from skill trees, in Monster Hunter, your weapon choice defines your playstyle.
Your initial weapon selection sets the tone for your entire experience. If you crave speed and combo-heavy action, reminiscent of Dante from Devil May Cry, the Dual Blades are ideal. They focus on rapid attacks, quick dodges, and building a meter that, once full, unleashes a flurry of attacks on downed foes.
Conversely, if you prefer a balance of heavy damage and defensive capabilities while maintaining mobility, the Sword and Shield is an excellent starting point. The Lance, though less popular due to its emphasis on defense over flashy attacks, offers a unique combat experience with its parries and counter-attacks, rewarding practice and patience.
For those interested in ranged combat, the Bowguns are a formidable choice, often as powerful as melee weapons. When opting for these, ensure you have ample ammo and select the best type for the monster you're facing.
Monster Hunter Wilds features 14 weapons, each with distinct abilities and characteristics. They can be broadly categorized into three types: heavy weapons that trade speed for massive damage, 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 provide unique buffs with the right combos.
With such a wide variety of options, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. However, don't rush your decision. Take advantage of the game's tutorial to experiment with each weapon. This way, you'll discover the perfect fit for your playstyle, whether you're aiming to unleash chaos like Dante or adopt a more strategic approach akin to Dark Souls.
