Gaming

Monster Hunter Wilds Review: Focus on the Hunt, Not the Flaws

March 4, 2025

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Monster Hunter Wilds Review: I’ve logged about 60 hours in Monster Hunter Wilds, but let me highlight just seven seconds. I’m tracking an Alpha Doshaguma, a newly introduced bear-like creature that players encounter early in the game.

“After pursuing the beast across the Windward Plains, battling it at various points, I’ve finally cornered it in a narrow outcropping. As we prepare for the final clash,

I spot a jagged rock teetering above its head. Seizing the opportunity, I aim my hook slinger at it, hoping to bring it crashing down and crush the Doshaguma beneath.”

At that precise moment, the monster makes its move. As the rocks come crashing down, it lunges at me, roaring with bared teeth in a last-ditch attack. With perfect timing, I swing my great sword, wedging it between its jaws before hurling the beast aside in a stunning display of power.

The Doshaguma reels backward, and I seize the moment. With a sharp whistle, my Seikret swoops in, allowing me to mount before surging toward the beast.

As it rears up to strike, I launch myself off my companion, grabbing onto its head. It thrashes wildly in an attempt to throw me off, but I cling tightly, carefully shifting mainly onto its back.

It all happened that I preferred to thrust my sword into the Doshaguma’s open wound, and with a final, piercing wail, the beast crumples to the ground, defeated. That entire moment lasted just seven seconds, now picture the thrill of the remaining time.

Table of Contents

Monster Hunter Evolved

Monster Hunter Wilds — Image Credit: thegamer.com

Veteran Monster Hunter players will instantly recognize moments like these. These intense, cinematic clashes are the heart of the series and a key reason why it remains one of Capcom’s most enduring successes.

Wilds elevates these dynamic encounters to the point where even standard gameplay moments feel like carefully orchestrated battle sequences.

While much has been said about its new features, its true brilliance lies in how it refines the core elements that have always made Monster Hunter exceptional.

That’s not to overlook the fresh additions. While it’s not just a reimagining of World though many Monster Hunter fans likely wouldn’t have complained Wilds aspires to, and frequently achieves, the feeling of a vibrant, living world.

The experience ranges from impressive to excellent, though it does streamline some of the depth the series is known for. Like it or not, Wilds is the most accessible entry in the Monster Hunter franchise so far.

Surviving & Tracking In the Forbidden Lands

Wilds introduces a fresh take on its map and gameplay loop, ditching the classic hub town in favor of a connected system of biomes that keep you within the hunting zones. While some describe it as ‘open-world inspired,’ it largely retains the core Monster Hunter structure.

Hunts are still selected from a menu, with fast travel taking you to and from the battlefield. While the map design isn’t as groundbreaking as it seems, it does help maintain a sense of immersion. It’s a positive change, but not Wilds’ most significant evolution.

Well, The maps are noticeably larger and packed with more dynamic elements. The Crimson Forest stands out as the most expansive biome, showcasing the greatest range of climate shifts.

Another peculiar thing about Monster Hunter Wilds is its rivers and wetlands shrink, revealing red-streaked riverbeds and hungry, aggressive wildlife. In the season of Plenty, the landscape transforms into a vibrant, green expanse teeming with life as water flows freely through the region.

Shifting weather brings fresh hunting opportunities, meaning you’re not just studying each monster’s behavior but also the evolving patterns of every biome. Depending on when you visit, the environments can feel like entirely new maps, adding variety and keeping the endgame grind engaging.

A Relentless World With A Merciful Side

If there’s one feature that truly transforms the gameplay in Wilds, it’s the Seikret. This mount isn’t just for travel. It’s a valuable companion in battle, ensuring that the hunt never loses its momentum.

The challenge of finding a safe moment to heal or sharpen your weapon is completely removed with the ability to summon your mount instantly. Now, you can stay mobile while managing your items and avoiding danger.

The changes in Wilds, whether through new mechanics or the removal of old ones result in a more forgiving experience.

In previous games, going into a hunt unprepared meant facing the consequences, but that’s no longer the case. Forgot deodorant while facing the gas-spewing Congalala? No problem, your Palico conveniently has some ready for you.

Being a dedicated and seasoned player, it’s tough to fault these adjustments since they’ll likely draw in more newcomers. However, Wilds seems to be at the tipping point of accessibility any further streamlining could take away the depth that makes hunting so fulfilling. Some might say it’s already gone too far.