Monster Hunter Wilds Nails Returning Monsters

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As a dedicated gamer, I can’t help but have my heart skip a beat for certain monsters in the Monster Hunter universe. My favorite often fluctuates, with the elegant Malfestio and the upcoming arrival of the enchanting Mizutsune (which has me absolutely buzzing for its debut) frequently gracing the top spot. There are times when I revert to a simpler taste and find myself drawn to the fiery Rathalos, a sleek red dragon that never fails to impress. So, yes, I’m Welsh, and if you have a problem with that, well… that’s on you!

Low Rank story spoilers and High Rank monster spoilers ahead.

What I appreciate, however, is that Monster Hunter Worlds doesn’t lean on familiar faces to hook you into its freshly crafted realm. Unlike older games, The Forbidden Lands are largely void of recurring monsters. Congalala and Nerscylla appear as expected, while Rathalos and Odogaron make an appearance in their refined subspecies, but the rest are entirely new creatures.

Newcomers Never Lose The Spotlight

In the storyline, the creatures Odogaron and Rathalos, previously mentioned, play pivotal roles in showcasing a significant plot point about the Guardian monsters of the Keepers. These aren’t just ordinary monsters; they are artificially enhanced by their creators, receiving additional powers that amplify their strength, but even more significantly, make them more extraordinary or “awesome” compared to their original forms.

This method guarantees these experiences remain fresh, despite being presented in recognizable forms. It also seamlessly integrates with the intricate storyline that Wilds aims to create, exploring the repercussions of meddling with nature.

In terms of execution, World handled the dynamics exceptionally, whereas Rise struggled in a particular aspect. Enriching the primary storyline (commonly referred to as the ‘story’ section in modern Monster Hunter games like Rise) by introducing entirely novel monsters creates an atmosphere of excitement and exploration, as each newly introduced monster, properly signposted, leaves a lasting impression of awe and wonder rather than being quickly captured and overshadowed by predictable hype. Contrastingly, Rise introduces the Great Baggi and Kulu-Ya-Ku within the first hour of gameplay, which somewhat diminishes the anticipation that should accompany a fresh new world to discover.

I wouldn’t have minded having less returners than we got – Congalala and Khezu are both meme-worthy monsters, and discovering that I had to hunt one so early in the game made me sigh. However, Nerscylla, you can have it, is simply awesome.

Discussing High Rank (the continuation of the main game following the end credits) versus earlier stages, there’s a significant change. One of your initial tasks upon entering High Rank is tracking down a Gypceros, an iconic monster that debuted in the original Monster Hunter. You’ll encounter more familiar monsters than before, almost overwhelmingly so.

Rathian, Yian Kut-Ku, Blangonga, Gravios, and the formidable Gore Magala; High Rank is a star-studded list of anticipation. This adventure offers a refreshing change from the weightier plotlines in Low Rank, instead delivering thrilling encounters as we take on iconic monsters using our updated weapon techniques, explore fresh environments, and utilize innovative hunting systems.

High Rank brings together popular monsters like Rathian, Yian Kut-Ku, Blangonga, Gravios, and Gore Magala. It’s a break from the serious storylines in Low Rank and provides exciting hunts against classic enemies using our new weapon abilities, new locations, and improved hunting methods.

I truly value the gap between the storyline intended for new players and the anticipation created for returning players. This allows Wilds to expand its narrative and establish its unique world, while also catering to fans who might invest an unhealthy amount of time in the game with familiar elements. Ahem.

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2025-03-09 01:04