Why Monster Hunter Wilds’ Best Character Surprised Everyone

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In a shift from its traditional focus, Monster Hunter Rise is attempting to make its characters more prominent, by giving them individual names and personalities. This development has been a point of contention, as some players appreciate the game’s deeper immersion into the Lore of the Hunter’s Guild, while others prefer the freedom to hunt monsters in their preferred style without a heavy narrative. It is clear that the game’s storyline makes it more linear compared to previous versions.

[Warning: Monster Hunter Wilds main story spoilers.]

In essence, enhanced characterization in MH Wilds offers several advantages. For one, it makes the game more comprehensible than its predecessors, serving as a welcoming onboarding experience for new players, who are numerous given Wilds’ impressive sales figures surpassing eight million. Furthermore, this improved characterization fosters a stronger connection with the main cast members, invigorating the community’s engagement. Additionally, it serves as a refreshing departure from MH World, where the Handler was disliked for being bothersome and ineffective, despite purporting to be a helpful partner.

Monster Hunter Wilds’ Hunter Is The Game’s Best Character

They Are Everything People Love About Action Heroes

It’s clear that Alma outshines World’s Handler as a character due to being less grating and having a more clearly defined role, making her more valuable. Both Gemma and Olivia have gained much admiration for their respective qualities, but it’s the Hunter in Wilds who truly steals the show. In contrast to previous Monster Hunter titles where the player character was just a blank slate for turning monsters into fashion accessories, the Hunter in Wilds exudes a cool, composed, and deadly efficient demeanor.

In the thrilling world of Wilds, The Hunter exhibits an unwavering bravery, a trait I would typically associate with any hunter. However, Olivia demonstrated in her battle against Jin Dahaad that this fearlessness may not always be present. Nevertheless, it doesn’t diminish my respect for her. Interestingly, during the fight, Olivia expressed doubts about facing such a colossal monster as Jin Dahaad, but The Hunter seemed unfazed by it. This is a common theme throughout the game, where The Hunter portrays a mix of compassion and danger, much like the action heroes from classic gaming, and serves as a steadfast pillar for the Avis Unit.

The playful antics of Palicos, such as being tossed out of the tent when they bounce excessively on the hammock, reveal their playfulness. Moreover, their affectionate care towards Nata, a aspect that not all players seem to reciprocate, showcases a protective nature that makes them appealing. Most significantly, the Hunter’s unwavering self-assurance in any circumstance gives them an air of calmness that is essential for the central character in a Monster Hunter game. However, coolness alone may not be sufficient, and the Hunter’s robust bond with Alma greatly enhances their appeal.

Alma & The Hunter Form A Powerful Partnership

Guild Authorization Hits Harder Than It Has Any Right To

The Hunter’s character is effectively portrayed through their alliance with Alma and their unwavering faith in her judgement. Alma grants the Hunter authority over monsters during the game, acting as the Guild’s representative, which sets her role apart from the Handler’s in Monster Hunter: World. She clearly comprehends her responsibilities, rescues individuals from peril, and allows the Hunter to focus on their task, a dynamic that has resonated with players due to Alma’s popularity contrasting with that of her predecessor. The trust between them is evident and appreciated by many.

The duo exhibit distinct characteristics, as Alma exudes a soft and caring demeanor contrasting the no-nonsense, businesslike Hunter. Alma frequently grapples with uncertainty, particularly when instructing the slaying of Guardian Arkveld, whereas the Hunter consistently projects unwavering self-assurance.

Their differences may not make them relatable, but they are indeed commendable, evoking thoughts of characters like Samus from Metroid. This is especially true when it comes to their responses to orders. Although Alma gives commands, that doesn’t preclude the Hunter from making independent decisions for the welfare of the Forbidden Lands.

The most compelling moment in the narrative unfolds as the climax during the confrontation against the Zoh Shia. Prior to this encounter, it appeared that either quenching the Dragon Torch, risking the destruction of the Forbidden Lands’ ecosystems, or allowing the Zoh Shia to continue rampaging were the only options. In a surprising turn of events, it was decided that the Dragon Torch had to be doused, and Nata was tasked with executing this action. However, after wrestling with his resolve, the Hunter proposes an alternate solution. In obedience to their own mandate (the most impactful part of the game), they choose to eliminate the Zoh Shia instead.

The Hunter Is MH Wilds’ Master Chief

Dangerously Competent, Fearless, And Heroic Enough To Get The Job Done

There are several points of comparison between a character such as the Hunter and Master Chief from Halo. Both are super-soldiers, but what truly sets them apart is their fearlessness, exceptional skills, straightforward approach to problem-solving, and disregard for orders when the circumstances demand it. Alma bears some resemblance to Cortana (early versions), serving as a guide, knowledge repository, and helpful assistant outside of combat, although there are other action heroes with whom the Hunter can be compared.

In popular culture, people often joke that if not for Alma’s power, the Hunter could easily embody the role of Doom Guy in the Monster Hunter universe. This is because both characters appear equally adept at vanquishing monsters and demons respectively. If a future expansion pits the Hunter against the Fatalis, they might come close to the level of destruction Doom Guy inflicts on the forces of hell. However, it’s important to note that the Hunter isn’t just a killing machine; their role is more protective, resembling Master Chief more than Doom Guy.

In Monster Hunter Wilds, the portrayal of The Hunter was an unexpected delight in the storyline. Initially, I had reservations about a player character with full voice acting, but they quickly became my favorite due to their unique appeal. Alma played a significant role in enhancing The Hunter’s characterization, and their dynamic resembled what I envisioned for World’s Hunter alongside their Handler. While not every character was well-received (many find Nata unappealing, despite his being a traumatized child), The Hunter emerged as a favorite among them all.

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2025-03-11 05:38