Monster Hunter: Play Styles Vary with Weapon Choice

For newcomers to the Monster Hunter series, the blockbuster success of Monster Hunter Wilds might seem like it came out of nowhere. However, Capcom's meticulous refinement of the Monster Hunter franchise over the years has positioned Wilds as a potential best-seller in the series. With over a million concurrent players on Steam, it's clear that everyone is diving into the action of Monster Hunter Wilds. If you're feeling like an outsider looking in, unsure of where to start, I have a simple yet effective tip to enhance your Monster Hunter experience: find the weapon that aligns perfectly with your preferred playstyle.

In Monster Hunter Wilds, players are immediately presented with a vast array of weapons, each offering a unique approach to combat. Whether you're drawn to the brute force of heavy weapons like the Great Sword, the agility of the Dual Blades, or the precision of ranged weapons like the Bowgun, there's something for everyone.

There's a natural inclination, perhaps due to its iconic status within the series, to start with the large swords and switch axes. However, these hefty weapons require a strategic approach, focusing on deliberate swings rather than sheer power, which can be challenging for beginners. Instead, consider beginning with a more agile option like the Dual Blades. This choice opens up a world of rapid attacks and nimble dodges, transforming your gameplay experience. Using a large sword evokes the methodical combat of Dark Souls, while the Dual Blades bring to mind the frenetic action of Devil May Cry.

Monster Hunter Wilds introduces combat mechanics that align more closely with contemporary action games, making it more accessible to players familiar with recent action RPGs. While the need to sheathe your weapon before healing remains, the overall feel of combat is more intuitive. The crucial difference in Monster Hunter is that your weapon choice fundamentally shapes your gameplay experience, unlike other action RPGs where customization is often achieved through skill trees.

Your initial weapon selection sets the tone for your entire journey. If you crave speed and combo-heavy action reminiscent of Dante from Devil May Cry, the Dual Blades are your go-to. They excel in quick attacks, agile dodges, and building up a meter that unleashes devastating combos on downed foes.

Conversely, if you prefer a balance of heavy damage and defensive capabilities with mobility, the Sword and Shield is an excellent starting point. The Lance, though less popular due to its focus on defense over flashy attacks, offers a unique combat experience with its parries and counter-attacks, rewarding patience and practice.

For those interested in ranged combat, the Bowguns are a formidable choice, matching or even surpassing the power of melee weapons. When opting for these, ensure you're well-stocked with the right ammo and choose the best type for the monster you're facing.

With 14 weapons available, each with distinct abilities and characteristics, they can be broadly categorized into three types: heavy weapons that trade speed for massive damage, light weapons that prioritize rapid attacks, and technical weapons that offer unique mechanics. Some weapons, like the Gunlance, blend ranged capabilities with melee, while the Charge Blade can switch between a large axe and a smaller blade. The Insect Glaive and Hunting Horn provide unique buffs through specific combos.

Don't let the variety overwhelm you. Take advantage of the game's tutorial to experiment with each weapon before committing. You're sure to find the perfect fit, whether you're aiming to unleash chaos like Dante or adopt a strategic approach akin to Dark Souls.