With *Monster Hunter Wilds* among Steam's most pre-ordered games, its massive appeal is undeniable. Many will experience the series for the first time with *Wilds*, and while it'll likely have a comprehensive tutorial, the series' complexity might overwhelm newcomers. Before diving into *Wilds*' vast, dangerous world, consider playing 2018's *Monster Hunter: World* for a smoother onboarding experience.
We recommend *World* not for narrative connections to *Wilds*, but because its style and structure closely mirror the upcoming game. *World* provides a fantastic introduction to the sometimes-complex systems and gameplay loop that define the series.
Why Monster Hunter: World?
You might wonder why we suggest *World* instead of *Monster Hunter Rise*, the most recent entry. While *Rise* is excellent, *Wilds* is a more direct successor to *World*. *Rise*, originally developed for the Nintendo Switch, prioritized speed and smaller zones, streamlining the gameplay loop but sacrificing some of the larger-scale, immersive environments *World* offered. *Wilds* appears to build upon and recapture those elements *World* excelled at.
*World*'s expansive zones and emphasis on tracking monsters through detailed ecosystems serve as a blueprint for *Wilds*' even larger open areas. Experience *World*'s thrilling hunts across varied terrains—a hallmark of modern *Monster Hunter*—before *Wilds* delivers on a grander scale. Why wait when you can get a head start?
While not a direct story continuation, *World*'s narrative structure and campaign will prepare you for *Wilds*. You'll encounter familiar elements like the Hunter's Guild and Palicos, though wholly unconnected from previous entries. Think of it like the *Final Fantasy* series: recurring elements exist across distinct, unrelated games. Each entry retains its unique identity while building upon established concepts.
Practice, Practice, Practice
Beyond understanding the *Monster Hunter* universe and *Wilds*' campaign structure, *World* offers invaluable combat practice. *Wilds* features 14 weapons, all present in *World*, allowing you to familiarize yourself with the unique combat systems. Experiment with different weapons to find your preferred playstyle, whether it's the swift dual blades or the powerful greatsword. Mastering each weapon requires focus and understanding.
In *Monster Hunter*, your weapon is paramount. Unlike traditional RPGs, abilities and stats are weapon-based. Each weapon acts like a character class, dictating your battlefield role and hunting approach. *World* teaches weapon upgrades using monster parts and building toward higher-level weapons. Mastering weapon positioning and attack angles is crucial; raw damage alone won't suffice. Understanding each weapon's effectiveness on different body parts is key to victory.
The Slinger, a tool returning in *Wilds*, allows using gadgets and ammunition. Learning its tactical use (flash pods, poison knives) significantly enhances gameplay. Crafting Slinger ammo from environmental ingredients is another skill *World* teaches, valuable for *Wilds* as well. Understanding the hunt's tempo, from tracking monsters to gathering materials, is essential. It becomes second nature with practice.
A hunt isn't a quick kill; it's a strategic dance. Learning enemy behaviors and adapting your equipment builds foundational knowledge. *Wilds*' emphasis on scale and scope mirrors *World*'s spectacle, making *World* the ideal preparation.
Import *World* (and *Iceborne*) save data into *Wilds* for free Palico armor—a nice bonus! While not mandatory, playing *World* provides a significant advantage. *Monster Hunter* is unique; while accessibility improves with each game, the best way to prepare is by playing a previous entry. While jumping into *Wilds* blind is an option, *World* offers a valuable introduction to the series' intricacies before *Wilds*' February 28, 2025 launch.
