Monster Hunter: Play Styles Vary by Weapon Choice

For newcomers to Monster Hunter, the sudden success of Wilds might seem like it came out of nowhere. But Capcom has been meticulously refining its globally acclaimed Monster Hunter series for years, leading to what appears to be one of the best-selling entries in the franchise. With over a million concurrent players on Steam, Monster Hunter Wilds is capturing the attention of gamers worldwide. If you're feeling like an outsider unsure of where to begin, there's a simple trick to maximize your enjoyment: find the weapon that aligns with your preferred playstyle.

Monster Hunter Wilds offers an extensive array of weapons right from the start, each boasting a unique playstyle. Whether you're drawn to the heavy, brutish power of the Great Sword, the agility of the Dual Blades, or the strategic distance of the Bowgun, the choice is yours. While it's tempting to dive in with the iconic large swords and switch axes, these weapons demand precise, intentional swings rather than brute force, which can be challenging for beginners. Instead, consider starting with the more nimble Dual Blades, which allow for quick attacks and agile dodges, transforming the gameplay experience. Using a big sword feels like the deliberate combat of Dark Souls, whereas the Dual Blades evoke the fast-paced action of Devil May Cry.

Wilds has evolved the combat mechanics to align more closely with modern action games, making it more intuitive for players accustomed to recent action RPGs. However, unlike other games where skill trees allow for customization, in Monster Hunter, your weapon choice is crucial. It shapes your entire gameplay experience from the outset. If you crave speed and combo-heavy action reminiscent of Dante from Devil May Cry, the Dual Blades are ideal, offering rapid attacks and quick dodges that build up a meter for powerful combos on downed enemies.

On the other hand, if you prefer a balance of heavy damage and defensive mobility, the sword and shield is an excellent starter weapon. The lance, though less popular due to its focus on defense over flashy attacks, provides a unique combat experience through its parries and counter-attacks. For those interested in ranged combat, Bowguns are a formidable choice, but remember to stock up on the right ammo for the monster you're hunting.

With 14 weapons available, each with distinct abilities and characteristics, they can be broadly categorized into heavy, light, and technical types. Heavy weapons deliver massive damage at the cost of speed, light weapons excel in rapid attacks, and technical weapons offer specialized combat options. Some weapons, like the Gunlance, blend ranged capabilities, while the Charge Blade can switch between a large axe and a smaller blade. The Insect Glaive and Hunting Horn provide unique buffs when used correctly.

Don't let the variety overwhelm you. The game's tutorial allows you to experiment with every weapon before committing. Whether you want to unleash a frenzy of attacks like Dante or approach battles with the strategic mindset of Dark Souls, you'll find the perfect weapon to suit your style.