Monster Hunter: Play Styles Vary by Weapon, Mimicking 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 massively successful Monster Hunter series for years, aiming for global dominance. The result is what appears to be one of the best-selling games in the series. 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, unsure of how or where to start, I have a simple yet effective trick to maximize your enjoyment: find the weapon that best suits your playstyle.

In Monster Hunter Wilds, players are immediately presented with an almost overwhelming array of weapons, each offering a unique playstyle. Whether you're drawn to the heavy, brutish power of the Great Sword, the agility of the Dual Blades, or the precision of ranged weapons like the Bowgun, there's something for everyone.

There's a common temptation, perhaps due to the iconic status of the big swords and switch axes, to start with these weapons. However, these cumbersome tools require a specific approach, focusing on deliberate swings rather than brute force, making them challenging for beginners. Instead, I recommend starting with something more nimble, like the Dual Blades. These weapons unlock a world of quick attacks and dodges, transforming your experience. When using a big sword, Monster Hunter feels akin to the strategic combat of Dark Souls; with Dual Blades, it echoes the fast-paced action of Devil May Cry.

Compared to previous Monster Hunter games, Wilds has adjusted its combat to align more closely with modern action games. While you still need to sheathe your weapon to heal, the combat feels more intuitive for those familiar with recent action RPGs. The key difference, and why choosing the right weapon is crucial, is that unlike other action RPGs where customization comes from skill trees, in Monster Hunter, your playstyle is defined by your weapon choice.

The weapon you select at the start 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 rely on fast attacks, quick dodges, and building a meter that, when full, unleashes a rapid combo on downed enemies.

Conversely, if you prefer a balance of heavy damage and defensive capabilities while maintaining 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 patience.

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

Monster Hunter Wilds offers 14 weapons, each with unique abilities and characteristics, categorized into three main types: heavy weapons that deal massive damage at the cost of speed, light weapons that excel in rapid attacks, and technical weapons. Some weapons, like the Gunlance, offer ranged capabilities, while the Charge Blade can switch between a large axe and a smaller blade. The Insect Glaive and Hunting Horn can provide unique buffs with the right combos.

With such a wide range of choices, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. However, don't rush your decision. Take advantage of the game's tutorial to try out every weapon before committing. You'll find the perfect fit for your playstyle, whether you want to unleash a frenzy like Dante or adopt a more strategic approach like in Dark Souls.