Unlock Monster Hunter Wilds Early: The New Zealand Time Zone Trick

Monster Hunter Wilds officially launches Friday, February 28th, but a staggered release means some players can access the game earlier. This guide details how to leverage the "New Zealand trick" to jump into the hunt ahead of schedule.

Easiest Method: Xbox Series X|S

The Xbox Series X|S offers the simplest approach. Xbox allows straightforward region changes, effectively shifting your console's time zone. Here's how:

1. Navigate to Xbox settings.
2. Access the "System" tab.
3. Select "Language & Location."
4. Change your "Location" to New Zealand.
5. Restart your Xbox.

After restarting, you should be able to play Monster Hunter Wilds concurrently with the earliest launch region.

More Complex Methods: PlayStation and PC

While less convenient, the New Zealand trick is still feasible on PlayStation and PC, albeit with added complexity. Simply changing your region won't work; you'll need a separate account.

1. Create a new PlayStation Network (PSN) or Steam account.
2. Use a New Zealand address during account creation.
3. Purchase Monster Hunter Wilds using this account, paying in New Zealand dollars (NZ$). Note that the NZ$ price may be slightly higher than the USD equivalent. You might need to purchase NZ$-denominated gift cards from a third-party vendor depending on your payment method's international transaction capabilities.

Regional Release Times

The image below illustrates the varied release times across different regions. Auckland, New Zealand (12 AM NZDT) is the earliest launch point. This translates to 6 AM the previous day in New York and 3 AM on the West Coast. The New Zealand trick grants US players nearly an entire extra day of gameplay, starting Thursday, February 27th.

By employing the New Zealand trick, you can significantly extend your Monster Hunter Wilds playtime. Choose the method best suited to your platform and prepare for the hunt!