Monster Hunter Wilds receives an Open Beta Test for PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam on October 31

As a seasoned hunter with countless hours spent tracking down fearsome beasts, I must say that these screenshots from the Wilds Open Beta Test have certainly piqued my interest! The lush and vibrant landscapes, coupled with the formidable-looking monsters, evoke memories of my own hunting expeditions.

At the Monster Hunter Wilds Showcase event in October 2024, Capcom revealed a wealth of fresh details about the game. They unveiled a new trailer featuring the Oilwell Basin region for the very first time, as well as introducing several new monsters. In addition, producer Ryozo Tsujimoto confirmed that gamers will have an opportunity to experience Monster Hunter Wilds absolutely free during a limited-time Open Beta Test from October 31 to November 3 (Pacific Time). The open beta will be accessible on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam; subscribers of PS+ can enjoy early access starting from October 28.

As a gamer, I was blown away by the latest trailer for Oilwell Basin, revealing an unforgiving, inhospitable landscape brimming with oil that can ignite instantly and spread flames across the terrain at the blink of an eye. The chilling Rompopolo monster hints at certain areas where my character’s movement will be heavily restricted, while the relentless Ajarakan stalks from above, using the arena’s ceiling as its playground to swiftly close in on players. To top it all off, a mysterious new adversary known as the Black Flame makes an appearance, challenging the main character and sending shivers down my spine.

Monster Hunter Wilds receives an Open Beta Test for PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam on October 31

Towards the end of the presentation, Tsujimoto revealed some exciting news about Monster Hunter Wilds: there will be an Open Beta Test! This test is accessible without requiring a PlayStation Plus or Game Pass subscription, and it’s available across all three platforms when it goes live. However, early access during the beta phase is exclusive to PS5 users who are PlayStation Plus subscribers. Furthermore, Monster Hunter Wilds open beta features crossplay functionality, allowing players on different platforms to team up together.

Monster Hunter Wilds receives an Open Beta Test for PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam on October 31

During the open beta, players are given the liberty to customize their main character and Palico ally; they may adjust these designs repeatedly throughout the beta period. This flexibility extends beyond the beta, allowing for transfer of these characters into the full game release on February 28, 2025. Participants in the open beta will receive a unique cosmetic Pendant that can be attached to their weapon or Seikret mount. The open beta offers access to the early chapters of Monster Hunter Wilds’ narrative, including the Doshaguma Hunt quest as well.

On February 28, 2025, Monster Hunter Wilds will be available globally on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam. Check out the latest trailer below for a sneak peek, as well as additional details and images.

During Capcom’s October event dedicated to Monster Hunter Wilds, producer Ryozo Tsujimoto recently shared a new trailer and details about an upcoming Open Beta Test. The latest footage showcases the mesmerizing landscape and creatures of the Oilwell Basin ecosystem, such as the enigmatic monster called the “Black Flame,” additional monsters residing in the area, and the local village of Azuz inhabited by craftsmen. Tsujimoto then announced that the Open Beta Test will commence next week on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam. The test period is scheduled for October 31 to November 3 Pacific Time (PT), with PlayStation Plus subscribers gaining early access starting October 28 PT. Monster Hunter Wilds is slated for release on February 28, 2025, and can be previewed by watching the full showcase and trailer on the official Monster Hunter YouTube channel or by visiting the Capcom Press Center for additional assets.
Ready to Combust
The Oilwell Basin, named after its active oil wells, is a treacherous land that occasionally bursts into fierce fires during the harsh season called Firespring. Within this area, covered in thick oil silt, roams the newly discovered Brute Wyvern Rompopolo. This formidable creature emits a toxic gas from its tongue to weaken prey before striking with its tail, causing tar bubbles to erupt. Rompopolo must constantly defend its territory against the Ajarakan, another uncharted monster residing here. This fiery-mouthed beast protects itself by heating up its hard shell. Meanwhile, the skilled artisans of Azuz have built a village around a large forge in this harsh, ever-changing landscape. Despite the struggles of the villagers and the fierce wildlife, there’s an enigmatic monster, known locally as the “Black Flame,” lurking deep within the basin.
Play the Open Beta
Following the exciting new trailer, Tsujimoto revealed that eager hunters can soon experience Monster Hunter Wilds at home for the first time by participating in an Open Beta Test across PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam with cross-play supported between all platforms. Participants will also receive a special bonus Pendant to decorate their weapons or Seikret mount alongside a helpful item pack in the full release of Monster Hunter Wilds. The Open Beta Test will include three separate experiences: the complete character creation tool with character creation data that will be transferable to the full game upon release, a Story Trial, and the free-roaming Doshaguma Hunt. In the Story Trial, players can experience the opening cutscene of the game along with basic tutorials while hunting a Chatacabra, while in the Doshaguma Hunt, players can pursue the Alpha of a Doshaguma pack or explore the Windward Plains. Both the Story Trial and Doshaguma Hunt can be experienced solo, or players can use an SOS flare to create a party of up to four players online or call in assistance from NPC Support Hunters.
The Monster Hunter Wilds Open Beta Test will take place at the following times for each platform:
PlayStation 5
PlayStation Plus Early Access: October 28 at 8:00pm PT – October 30 at 7:59pm PT
Non-PlayStation Plus Subscribers: October 31 at 8:00pm PT – November 3 at 6:59pm PT*
Xbox Series X|S**: October 31 at 8:00pm PT – November 3 at 6:59pm PT*
Steam: October 31 at 8:00pm PT – November 3 at 6:59pm PT*
Access granted regardless of Daylight Savings Time adjustments; no necessity for Game Pass Core or Ultimate subscription during Open Beta phase.

Monster Hunter Wilds Oilwell Basin