Monster Hunter Wilds has finally arrived on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC, continuing the legacy of Capcom's renowned beast-battling action series. Following the footsteps of Monster Hunter World and its expansive Iceborne update, Wilds promises an engaging experience. But just how long does it take to complete? Here, we'll dive into the time it took various members of the IGN team to finish the main story, their priorities during gameplay, and their engagement with the postgame content.
Tom Marks - Executive Reviews Editor, Games
I completed the campaign of Monster Hunter Wilds in just under **15 hours**, reaching the actual end of the story. Unlike Monster Hunter Rise, where the first credit roll marks only the halfway point, Wilds' credits signify the end of Low Rank. However, the journey doesn't end there; High Rank awaits with numerous side quests and tougher challenges.
I spent **another 15 hours** tackling these quests to reach what I consider the true endgame. By this point, I had battled all available monsters, unlocked all initial systems and crafting options, and delved into the custom Artian weapon system designed to keep players engaged. Thanks to Wilds' streamlined progression, I only needed an additional **five hours** to optimize my preferred weapons and armor set, though there's always more to explore with other weapon types.
Casey DeFreitas - Deputy Editor, Guides
I completed the final "story" mission in High Rank after around **40 hours**, roughly **22 hours after the credits rolled for Low Rank**. My time might not be precise due to extensive menu idling for guide purposes. During the Low Rank phase, I didn't delve deeply into the game's intricate systems, focusing instead on crafting with available resources and progressing through the story without repeating hunts. In High Rank, I ventured into optional monster hunts and multiplayer sessions, which are necessary to unlock further Story Missions.
I only upgraded my weapon once by hunting an extra Ajarakan, otherwise sticking to what I could craft and rushing to the end. Ideally, with more time, I would have spent around **60 hours** to create a more efficient armor and weapon set. Postgame, I still have endemic life-catching, fishing, and six monster-hunting Side Missions to complete, along with potential additional optional quests. My plans include farming specific monsters for Talisman upgrades, crafting different armor, experimenting with Artian weapons, and replaying the story with friends to master new weapons. I'm also eagerly awaiting upcoming event quests and title updates with new monsters.
Simon Cardy - Senior Editorial Producer
I finished Monster Hunter Wilds' main story in **just under 16 hours**, which was surprisingly quick compared to my 25-hour journey into Monster Hunter World without reaching the end. As a relative newcomer to the series, I found the battles quite manageable, though some apex predators did pose a challenge. The game's streamlined approach, with less emphasis on elemental strategies, loadout customization, and extensive tracking, made it more accessible for players like me.
The consistent pacing of story cutscenes and monster battles until the credits felt less like a traditional Monster Hunter experience and more influenced by Western cinematic storytelling. While this allowed for a swift conclusion to the initial story, it might leave some of the series' core elements to be explored in the postgame.
Jada Griffin - Community Lead
It took me about **20 hours** to reach the initial credits in Monster Hunter Wilds, with most of that time spent on optional and side quests, and some dedicated to exploring the game's world. I enjoyed discovering hidden paths, hunting endemic life, customizing my radial menus, and finding optimal camp locations.
Completing all High-rank missions and side quests took me **15 hours**, allowing me to encounter all post-credit monsters. So far, I've logged nearly **70 hours** in the postgame, enjoying activities like hunting with friends, decoration farming, and pursuing monster crowns. I'm excited for future title updates that will introduce more monsters to the roster.
Ronny Barrier - Producer, Guides
I reached the first credits in Monster Hunter Wilds after about **20 hours**, primarily focusing on the main story with occasional detours to craft appealing armor sets and experiment with various weapons, particularly the Switch Axe. Currently, at **65 hours**, I view the credits as a narrative turning point rather than the true end. There's still much to explore, from new monsters to unique hats. The story feels like an extended tutorial, which suits me fine as it leads to more monster battles—except for Congalala, whom I'd rather not encounter again.