Hunters Unite: Embark on an Epic Adventure with Monster Hunter: World

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. Therefore, playing a previous game, specifically Monster Hunter: World (2018), can provide invaluable preparation.

We recommend World not for narrative continuity, but because its style and structure most closely mirror Wilds. World serves as an excellent onboarding experience, familiarizing players with the sometimes-challenging systems and gameplay loop that define the series.

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 due to hardware limitations. Wilds, conversely, seems to recapture the larger, more seamless zones and detailed ecosystems that were a hallmark of World. These are the elements Wilds builds upon, making World the ideal preparatory game.

World's Structure and Story

While Wilds' story is independent, World's narrative structure and familiar elements (like the Hunter's Guild and Palicos) will set appropriate expectations. Think of it like the Final Fantasy series: each game features recurring elements but remains distinct.

Mastering the Combat

World's greatest value lies in its challenging combat. All 14 weapons from Wilds are present in World, allowing players to familiarize themselves with each weapon's unique mechanics and find their preferred playstyle. Unlike traditional RPGs, weapon mastery is paramount in Monster Hunter; your weapon dictates your role and abilities. World teaches strategic combat, emphasizing positioning and targeted attacks over simple button-mashing. Understanding a weapon's optimal use against different monster parts is crucial.

Utilizing Tools and Understanding the Hunt Tempo

World introduces the Slinger, a crucial tool returning in Wilds. Mastering its use and crafting its ammunition will significantly enhance gameplay. The overall hunt tempo in World, from tracking monsters to gathering materials, mirrors Wilds, providing valuable experience.

What's Your Monster Hunter Experience?

While not mandatory, playing Monster Hunter: World offers significant advantages. It provides a smoother transition into the series' complexities, allowing players to master core mechanics before tackling Wilds. Import your World save data for bonus Palico armor! Ultimately, while jumping into Wilds blind is an option, World offers the best preparation for a truly rewarding experience.