Mastering Monster Hunter Wilds: Why You Should Play Monster Hunter: World First
Monster Hunter Wilds is one of Steam's most anticipated games, and for many, it will be their first foray into the series. While the game will undoubtedly include a comprehensive tutorial, the Monster Hunter series is notoriously complex. To ease your transition into Wilds' vast and dangerous world, we strongly recommend playing Monster Hunter: World (2018) beforehand.
This isn't about narrative connections; Monster Hunter: World's gameplay and structure are strikingly similar to Wilds'. Playing World serves as an excellent onboarding experience, familiarizing you with the sometimes-challenging systems and core gameplay loop.
Why not Monster Hunter Rise?
While Rise is the most recent title (and excellent in its own right), Wilds appears to be a direct successor to World, not Rise. Rise, originally developed for the Nintendo Switch, prioritized speed and smaller zones, streamlining the gameplay loop but sacrificing some of the large-scale, immersive environments of World. Wilds seems to be building upon and expanding the elements World excelled at.
World's expansive zones and emphasis on tracking monsters within detailed ecosystems provide the blueprint for Wilds' even larger open areas. Experience this style of hunting across varied terrains before Wilds launches.
Story and Structure
While Wilds' story is independent of World's, World's narrative structure and familiar elements (the Hunter's Guild, Palicos) will set appropriate expectations. Think of it like the Final Fantasy series – each game features recurring elements but remains distinct.
Mastering the Combat
The most compelling reason to play World first is its challenging combat. All 14 weapons in Wilds are also in World, allowing you to practice and find your preferred playstyle. Each weapon is unique and requires mastery. World provides a training ground to build proficiency before tackling Wilds.
Weapon Mastery and Strategy
In Monster Hunter, your weapon is paramount; abilities and stats are determined by your weapon choice. World teaches weapon upgrades using monster parts and emphasizes precise positioning and strategic attacks over raw damage output. Understanding weapon strengths (e.g., Longsword for tails, Hammer for stunning) is crucial.
Utilizing Tools and Crafting
World introduces the Slinger, a crucial tool returning in Wilds. Learning to use its gadgets and ammunition effectively (Flash Pods, poison knives) is vital. Familiarity with World's crafting system will also benefit you in Wilds.
The Hunt's Tempo
Mastering the hunt's rhythm – tracking monsters, gathering materials, and crafting – is key. World's pacing provides valuable preparation for Wilds' similar approach.
Poll: What's your Monster Hunter experience?
[Poll: Options for experience levels with Monster Hunter games]
Conclusion
While not mandatory, playing Monster Hunter: World before Wilds provides a significant advantage. It familiarizes you with core mechanics, combat, and the series' unique approach, setting you up for a smoother and more rewarding experience in the upcoming title. Plus, importing your World save data unlocks bonus Palico armor in Wilds! With Wilds' release on February 28, 2025, now is the perfect time to embark on your World adventure.
