Monster Hunter Wilds is the highly anticipated upcoming game from Capcom, set to release in 2025 for Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, and PC. As a Monster Hunter novice, I had the opportunity to experience a hands-on preview of the game at Gamescom 2024 in Germany, and I must say, I was thoroughly impressed by what I saw.
The preview consisted of two different demos, each showcasing different aspects of the game. The first demo placed us at the beginning of the game, where a new region had opened up, and our team of explorers embarked on an expedition to find a supposedly extinct monster. The introduction of a young girl named Nona, being chased by sand-crawling creatures, set the stage for an exciting adventure.
One of the standout features of the game is the weapon selection process, which includes a questionnaire to help players choose a weapon that suits their playstyle. In my case, I was recommended the Insect Glaive, a long spear that utilizes bugs to buff yourself and unlock different attack combos. The combat mechanics introduced in the tutorial fight against the Chatacabra, a formidable boss monster, were engaging and challenging, especially for a newcomer like myself.
The introduction of weak points in combat added a new layer of strategy, rewarding players for precise attacks and timing. The focus mode, activated by holding down L2/Left Trigger, allowed for more precise attacks and cinematic finishing moves that were both satisfying and visually impressive.
Moving on to the second demo, I faced off against a herd of Doshagumas, with the objective of taking down the Alpha of the pack. The demo showcased the versatility of the game, allowing players to switch between different weapons and utilize environmental effects to their advantage. The addition of mounting a Seikret and chasing down monsters added a dynamic element to the gameplay, keeping the action fast-paced and exciting.
Despite some visual glitches in the demos, it was evident that Monster Hunter Wilds is shaping up to be a game that rewards dedication and skill. The ability to call in support characters, carry multiple weapons, and engage in chaotic battles with multiple monsters adds depth and complexity to the gameplay.
Overall, my hands-on experience with Monster Hunter Wilds left me eager to delve deeper into the world of monster hunting when the game releases next year. With its challenging combat, strategic gameplay, and immersive world, Monster Hunter Wilds promises to be a thrilling adventure for both seasoned hunters and newcomers alike.