Monster Hunter Wilds has recently become a trending topic, capturing the attention of gamers and industry insiders alike. With over 1000+ searches and significant buzz across social media, it’s clear that the next installment in the Monster Hunter series has piqued the interest of both new and veteran fans. But why exactly is Monster Hunter Wilds at the forefront of gaming discussions right now? Let’s dive into the reasons behind its popularity, the broader context of the series, and some key insights from recent developer interviews.
Why Is 'Monster Hunter Wilds' Trending?
The Monster Hunter franchise, developed by Capcom, has been one of the most beloved action RPG series in gaming history. Known for its challenging mechanics, cooperative multiplayer, and massive, fierce monsters, the series has evolved over the years with various iterations. Monster Hunter Wilds represents the latest entry in this iconic franchise, and its recent announcement has stirred excitement due to high expectations after the success of Monster Hunter World and Monster Hunter Rise.
Additionally, recent interviews with developers and gaming journalists have shed light on the game's direction, as well as its connections to previous titles. This has further fueled speculation and discussion, especially around the evolution of the franchise and how Wilds might further push the boundaries of the Monster Hunter experience.
The Turning Point: Monster Hunter Freedom 2, Not Monster Hunter World?
One of the more intriguing revelations comes from a recent GamesRadar interview with the developers of Monster Hunter Wilds. According to the devs, the true turning point of the series wasn’t the widely acclaimed Monster Hunter World, but rather a lesser-known title from 10 years earlier—Monster Hunter Freedom 2, originally released on the PlayStation Portable (PSP).
While Monster Hunter World is often credited with bringing the series to a global mainstream audience, the developers argue that it was Freedom 2 that really defined the core mechanics and philosophy of the franchise. Monster Hunter Freedom 2 introduced many of the gameplay loops that players now associate with the series, such as more intricate weapon systems, expansive hunting environments, and refined multiplayer functionality. This revelation has sparked conversations in the gaming community, as it shifts the narrative of the series' development history and highlights the long-lasting impact of the PSP title on what Monster Hunter has become today.
This insight also raises interesting questions about how Monster Hunter Wilds will incorporate or pay homage to these earlier mechanics while building on the more modern innovations introduced in Monster Hunter World.
What to Expect from Monster Hunter Wilds
Early reports and speculation suggest that Monster Hunter Wilds will continue the series' trend of delivering expansive, open-world environments. However, it may also introduce new mechanics that could set it apart from its predecessors. According to a recent article on GameRant, one area where Monster Hunter Wilds could innovate is by emulating Dragon’s Dogma 2’s "pawn" system.
In Dragon’s Dogma 2, the pawn system allows players to recruit AI companions that learn from the player's behavior and adapt to different combat situations. This feature has been highly praised and could potentially be adapted for Monster Hunter Wilds to introduce more complex and strategic multiplayer or single-player experiences. Players could have access to AI-controlled hunters who learn from their actions, making hunts more dynamic and less predictable. This could also aid newer players, providing a smoother learning curve without sacrificing the challenge the series is known for.
The Legacy of Monster Hunter and Wilds' Potential
The Monster Hunter franchise has always been about growth—both in terms of the player’s progression and the series' evolution. What started as a niche title primarily enjoyed by Japanese audiences has grown into a global phenomenon, with Monster Hunter World selling over 18 million copies worldwide. Monster Hunter Rise, the most recent mainline title, has continued this momentum with critical acclaim and strong sales.
Yet, as the interviews with the developers suggest, the future of the series may not lie solely in replicating the success of Monster Hunter World. Instead, Monster Hunter Wilds seems poised to draw from the deep well of the franchise’s history, incorporating the lessons learned from both its early and modern entries.
Final Thoughts
As the gaming world eagerly awaits more details about Monster Hunter Wilds, it’s clear that this new title is more than just the next chapter in the series. Drawing on the legacy of games like Monster Hunter Freedom 2, while potentially incorporating new mechanics inspired by other Capcom titles like Dragon’s Dogma, Wilds could set a new standard for the franchise. Whether you’re a veteran hunter or a newcomer, Monster Hunter Wilds is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated games in the action RPG space.
Sources
- Monster Hunter Wilds dev says the series' true turning point wasn't Monster Hunter World, but a PSP game that came out 10 years earlier - GamesRadar
- Monster Hunter Wilds dev says the series' true turning point wasn't Monster Hunter World, but a PSP game that came out 10 years earlier - Yahoo
- Monster Hunter Wilds Should Emulate Dragon's Dogma 2's Best Feature - GameRant