Monster Hunter Wilds is gearing up to be the grandest installment in the series so far, although it won’t be shaking things up with new weapon classes. This latest entry will bring back the same 14 types of weapons that players have become familiar with in World and Rise, although there will be some tweaks here and there. The developers have opened up about why they decided to stick to these tried-and-true armaments. Despite the lack of new additions in this area, the game’s designers are confident that this choice serves the game well.
That said, don’t mistake familiarity for stagnation. While the core weapon types remain unchanged, Monster Hunter Wilds introduces significant updates to bowguns and bows, together with various gameplay adjustments fans have come to expect. Thanks to some recent commentary from the game’s developers, it’s now clearer why upgrading existing gear has taken precedence over creating entirely new weapon categories.
In a conversation with PCGamesN, Yuya Tokuda, the director of Monster Hunter Wilds, clarified why introducing a 15th weapon type was not in the cards. With a well-rounded selection of 14 diverse weapons already available, it’s challenging to design something new that warrants its own position without encroaching on existing niche roles. Consider the beloved bow with its adaptability, the dual blades prized for speed, or the great sword known for its balance of risk and reward. Each weapon is already meticulously designed for a range of play styles, and the development team is keen on maintaining that careful equilibrium.
Focusing on perfecting the weapons we already know appears to be a deliberate and thoughtful approach. Tokuda explained that channeling effort into fine-tuning and enhancing the current lineup seemed more beneficial than expending resources on a new entry. Capcom’s aim is for Monster Hunter Wilds to both renew and preserve the spirit of the franchise, and optimizing the established arsenal could be crucial in achieving that dual objective.
Fans seem to resonate with this strategy. Earlier this year, Monster Hunter Wilds was atop the Steam wishlist charts, edging out even the much-anticipated Hollow Knight: Silksong. As the game nears its launch on February 28, players will soon see just how successful Capcom has been in revamping its well-loved weapon systems.
Monster Hunter Wilds promises not just to be a game but an exhilarating experience where the prowess of nature runs untamed. Players will navigate dynamic landscapes and unravel the intricate bond between humans and monsters in a dual world. As a Hunter, your mission is to vanquish formidable creatures, craft powerful new gear, and delve into the history of the people of the Forbidden Lands and their territories. With its release on the horizon, Monster Hunter Wilds offers players the most thrilling hunting adventure yet.
