Monster Hunter Can Play Like Dark Souls or Devil May Cry, Depending on Your Weapon

For newcomers to Monster Hunter, the sudden success of Wilds might seem like it came out of nowhere. But Capcom has been meticulously refining its massively successful Monster Hunter series for years, aiming for global domination. The result? Monster Hunter Wilds is poised to be one of the best-selling games in the franchise, boasting over a million concurrent players on Steam.

If you're feeling like an outsider looking in, unsure of how or where to start, I have a simple yet effective trick to maximize your enjoyment of Monster Hunter: finding the weapon that perfectly aligns with your preferred playstyle. In Monster Hunter Wilds, players are greeted with an extensive arsenal of weapons, each offering a unique approach to combat. From the heavy, powerful Great Sword to the agile Dual Blades, and even ranged options like the Bowgun, the choices are almost overwhelming.

There's a natural inclination to start with the iconic big swords and switch axes due to their prominence in the series. However, these cumbersome weapons require a deliberate and strategic approach, prioritizing precise swings over brute force, making them less beginner-friendly. Instead, consider starting with something more nimble, like the Dual Blades. This choice unlocks a world of fast attacks and dodges, transforming the gameplay experience. While wielding a big sword may evoke the methodical combat of Dark Souls, using Dual Blades feels more akin to the action-packed style of Devil May Cry.

Wilds introduces combat mechanics that align more closely with modern action games. Although you still need to sheathe your weapon to heal, the combat feels more intuitive for those accustomed to recent action RPGs. The key differentiator, and the reason choosing the right weapon is crucial, is that unlike other action RPGs where customization is achieved through skill trees, in Monster Hunter, your weapon choice defines your playstyle.

The weapon you choose at the start significantly shapes your experience. If you crave a fast-paced, combo-heavy style reminiscent of Dante from Devil May Cry, the Dual Blades are ideal. They rely on swift attacks, quick dodges, and a meter that, once filled, unleashes a rapid combo on downed enemies.

Conversely, if you prefer a balance of heavy damage and defensive 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 patience and practice.

For those interested in ranged combat, the Bowguns are equally, if not more, powerful than melee options. When choosing a Bowgun, ensure you have ample ammo and select the best type for the monster you're facing.

With 14 weapons to choose from, each with distinct abilities and characteristics, they can be broadly categorized into three types: heavy weapons that deal massive damage at the cost of speed, light weapons that offer rapid attacks, and technical weapons that require skill to master. There are also hybrid weapons like the Gunlance, which combines melee and ranged capabilities, the Charge Blade, which can switch between a large axe and a smaller blade, and the Insect Glaive and Hunting Horn, which can provide unique buffs with the right combos.

Don't let the variety overwhelm you. Take advantage of the game's tutorial to try out each weapon before committing. You'll find the perfect fit, whether it's the frenetic action of Dante or the strategic combat of Dark Souls.