Monster Hunter: Play Styles Vary by Weapon, Mimic Dark Souls or Devil May Cry

For newcomers to Monster Hunter, the sudden success of Wilds might seem unexpected. However, Capcom's years of refining the Monster Hunter series have culminated in what promises to be one of the best-selling games in the franchise. With over a million concurrent players on Steam, it's clear that everyone is diving into Monster Hunter Wilds. If you're feeling like an outsider and unsure where to start, I have a simple trick to maximize your enjoyment: find the weapon that best suits your playstyle.

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

It's tempting, especially given its iconic status in Monster Hunter, to start with the large swords and switch axes. However, these weapons demand a specific approach, focusing on deliberate swings rather than brute force, which can be challenging for beginners. Instead, consider starting with something more nimble, like the Dual Blades, which offer quick attacks and dodges. This choice can transform your experience: using a big sword feels like the strategic combat of Dark Souls, while Dual Blades evoke the fast-paced action of Devil May Cry.

Wilds introduces combat changes that align more closely with modern action games, making it more intuitive for those familiar with recent action RPGs. However, unlike those games where customization comes from skill trees, in Monster Hunter, your playstyle is defined by your weapon choice.

Your initial weapon decision will shape your entire experience. If you crave speed and combo-heavy action, reminiscent of Dante from Devil May Cry, the Dual Blades are perfect. They allow for rapid attacks, quick dodges, and building up a meter to unleash powerful combos on downed enemies.

On the other hand, if you prefer a balance of heavy damage and defensive capabilities with mobility, the Sword and Shield is an excellent starter weapon. 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 practice and strategy.

For those interested in ranged combat, Bowguns are powerful alternatives to melee weapons. When choosing a Bowgun, ensure you have ample ammo and select the right type for the monster you're hunting.

Monster Hunter Wilds features 14 weapons, each with distinct abilities and characteristics, broadly categorized into heavy, light, and technical types. There are also hybrid weapons like the Gunlance, which offers ranged capabilities, and the Charge Blade, which can switch between a large axe and a smaller blade. The Insect Glaive and Hunting Horn provide unique buffs with the right combos.

Don't be overwhelmed by the choices. Experiment with every weapon during the game's tutorial before committing to one. You'll find the perfect fit, whether you want to unleash a frenzy akin to Dante or adopt a strategic approach similar to Dark Souls.