Mastering Monster Hunter Wilds: Why You Should Play Monster Hunter: World First

With Monster Hunter Wilds among Steam's top pre-ordered games, many anticipate its release. However, for newcomers to the series, the complexity might seem daunting. While Wilds will include a tutorial, the series is notoriously intricate. Therefore, playing a previous game first could prove invaluable. We strongly recommend starting with 2018's Monster Hunter: World.

This isn't due to narrative connections; instead, World's gameplay and structure closely mirror Wilds'. Playing World provides an excellent introduction to the series' systems and gameplay loop.

Why Choose Monster Hunter: World?

While Monster Hunter Rise is the most recent title, Wilds directly builds upon World, not Rise. Rise, initially designed for the Nintendo Switch, prioritized speed and smaller zones, streamlining the gameplay loop but sacrificing the large-scale environments and intricate details found in World. Wilds appears to recapture and expand upon these elements present in World.

World's expansive zones and emphasis on tracking monsters within detailed ecosystems serve as a blueprint for Wilds' even larger open areas. This makes World the ideal preparation for the thrilling hunts across diverse terrains that define modern Monster Hunter.

While Wilds' story is independent, World's narrative structure and familiar elements like the Hunter's Guild and Palicos will provide a suitable introduction. Consider it similar to the Final Fantasy series—each game features recurring elements but remains distinct.

Practice Makes Perfect

Beyond understanding the universe and campaign structure, World's challenging combat is crucial preparation. Wilds features 14 weapons, all present in World, allowing you to familiarize yourself with their unique mechanics and find your preferred style. Each weapon demands mastery, and World serves as an excellent training ground.

Your weapon is paramount in Monster Hunter; abilities and stats are determined by your weapon choice, similar to character classes in traditional RPGs. World teaches weapon upgrades using monster parts and emphasizes precise positioning and attack angles over raw damage. Understanding weapon strengths (e.g., Longsword for tails, hammer for stunning) is key to success.

Mastering the hunt's tempo is also vital. The Slinger, a crucial tool returning in Wilds, allows for strategic gadget and ammunition use. Familiarity with crafting menus and recipes from World will be beneficial in Wilds.

The core gameplay loop—tracking monsters, gathering materials, and crafting—becomes second nature with practice. World's experience provides a significant advantage in Wilds.

Each hunt requires strategic planning and understanding monster behaviors. World's scope and scale are similar to what Wilds promises, making it ideal preparation. Importing save data from World also unlocks free Palico armor in Wilds.

While not mandatory, playing Monster Hunter: World before Wilds provides a significant advantage. While the series strives for accessibility, the unique systems are best learned through experience. While some will enjoy jumping in blind, playing World is the best way to prepare for Wilds' February 28, 2025 launch.