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 like it came out of nowhere. However, Capcom has been meticulously refining its globally acclaimed Monster Hunter series over the years, culminating in what is poised to be one of the best-selling entries 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 looking in and unsure of where to start, I've got 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 an extensive array of weapons, each boasting its own unique mechanics. Whether you're drawn to the heavy, powerful swings of the Great Sword, the agile strikes of the Dual Blades, or the precision of ranged weapons like the Bowgun, there's something for everyone.

There's a natural inclination, perhaps fueled by the iconic status of these weapons, to start with the big swords and switch axes. However, mastering these cumbersome weapons requires a specific approach, emphasizing strategic swings over brute force, which can be challenging for beginners. Instead, consider starting with something more nimble, like the Dual Blades. These weapons open up a realm of rapid attacks and fluid dodges, transforming the gameplay experience. While wielding a large sword, Monster Hunter might remind you of the deliberate combat of Dark Souls; with Dual Blades, it evokes the fast-paced action of Devil May Cry.

Wilds introduces combat mechanics that align more closely with modern action games, making it more intuitive for players accustomed to recent action RPGs. Yet, unlike those games where playstyle customization is often achieved through skill trees, in Monster Hunter, your weapon choice is paramount. The initial weapon you select sets the tone for your entire journey. If you crave the thrill of swift, combo-laden attacks reminiscent of Dante from Devil May Cry, the Dual Blades are your go-to. They allow for quick attacks, agile dodges, and the ability to build up a meter that, once full, unleashes a rapid combo on downed foes.

Conversely, if you prefer a balance of heavy damage output and defensive capabilities while maintaining mobility, the Sword and Shield is an excellent starting point. The Lance, though less popular due to its emphasis on defense over spectacle, offers a unique blend of a large weapon and a shield, with parries and counter-attacks that reward practice and patience.

For those interested in ranged combat, the Bowguns stand out as potent alternatives to melee weapons. When choosing these, it's crucial to carry sufficient ammo and select the right type for the specific monster you're tackling.

Monster Hunter Wilds offers 14 distinct weapons, categorized broadly into heavy, light, and technical types. Heavy weapons deliver massive damage at the cost of speed, while light weapons excel in rapid attacks. Technical weapons, such as the Gunlance with its ranged capabilities or the Charge Blade that can switch between a large axe and a smaller blade, offer versatility. Additionally, weapons like the Insect Glaive and Hunting Horn provide unique buffs through specific combos.

With such a vast selection, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. However, don't rush your decision. Take advantage of the game's tutorial to experiment with each weapon. This exploration will lead you to the perfect fit, whether you're aiming to unleash chaos like Dante or adopt a more strategic approach akin to Dark Souls.