Today is a big day for both Hunters and their Palico companions, as the reviews are now in for Capcom’s latest installment, Monster Hunter Wilds. This new chapter in the beloved beast-slaying series is generating quite the buzz.
The consensus among critics is largely positive, with many singing praises for the gameplay mechanics and overall experience. That said, a few reviewers have taken issue with the early game story and how the narrative pacing unfolds.
Right now, Monster Hunter Wilds boasts an impressive 90 on Metacritic, based on 70 reviews, and a solid 89 on Opencritic from 91 reviews. The lion’s share of scores falls in the 9-to-10 range, though there are a few outliers that have nudged the average down a bit. Below, I’ve highlighted some standout quotes from various reviews:
Eurogamer Portugal awarded it a perfect 10/10, remarking, “With Monster Hunter Wilds, Capcom has skillfully refined the series formula. They’ve streamlined certain aspects for a more dynamic experience without losing any depth. By eliminating load screens between the camp and the map, players dive right into the hunt, uninterrupted, which is particularly rewarding given the engaging campaign that doubles as a substantial 14-hour tutorial.”
Destructoid gave it a near-perfect 9.5/10, enthusing, “Whether you’re stepping into the Monster Hunter universe for the first time or you’re a veteran seeking a new adventure, Monster Hunter Wilds has everything for a memorable journey. Capcom has truly exceeded expectations with this exceptional game. My playthrough was a joy from start to finish, with even more to discover thanks to its delightful endgame content.”
TechRadar Gaming rates it 4.5/5, calling it “the most accessible and user-friendly game in the series so far. Despite retaining some complex systems, the campaign serves as an excellent guide to the main mechanics and combat options. The ability to switch between two weapons makes it easier to master the diverse array of swords, axes, and bowguns.”
IGN, while giving it an 8/10, notes, “Monster Hunter Wilds continues to polish the rough edges of the series intelligently, minimizing barriers that could hinder wielding its thrilling weapons against monsters. In its quest for approachability, however, Wilds may have over-simplified in areas, lessening the need to delve deeply into its intricate equipment system to dominate. The flexible combat is some of the most entertaining yet, but like a stormy desert, it flashes brilliantly yet fleetingly, pending the release of formidable endgame challenges.”
Digital Trends also rated it an 8/10, emphasizing, “In Monster Hunter Wilds, your greatest strength is your routine, not your weapon. Capcom knows that ‘repetition’ doesn’t have to be frowned upon. The beauty of Monster Hunter lies in the moment when complexity becomes second nature. It’s when a daunting hunt transforms into a daily mission you discuss with friends. Reaching that endgame zen, I no longer felt like a mere visitor in a harsh world but an integral part of a vast ecosystem, carrying out my daily duties instinctively like any Doshaguma.”
Here at Windows Central, we’ve got a few Monster Hunter enthusiasts, and I share the sentiment echoed by our executive editor, Jez Corden, who states, “Hunting down monsters in 4-player co-op continues to be exhilarating. Uncovering new monsters and revisiting cherished ones remains a thrill. The enhanced online systems are a much-appreciated enhancement, and the art direction is simply stunning. Following Monster Hunter World and all its post-launch content was undoubtedly a tall order.”
I only jumped into the Monster Hunter franchise with 2018’s Monster Hunter World, but it completely captivated me, and I spent hundreds of hours on it and the extensive Iceborne expansion. Needless to say, I’m eager to dive into Wilds.
I might even have to track down one of those steelbook editions.
Mark your calendars, Monster Hunter Wilds is set to launch on February 28, 2025, for Xbox Series X|S, Windows PC, and PlayStation 5.
