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

For newcomers to Monster Hunter, the meteoric rise of Wilds might seem sudden. However, Capcom has been meticulously refining the Monster Hunter series for global success for years, culminating in what promises to be one of the franchise's top-selling titles.

With over a million concurrent players on Steam, Monster Hunter Wilds is capturing the attention of gamers worldwide. If you're feeling like an outsider unsure of where to start, here's a simple trick to maximize your enjoyment: find the weapon that aligns best with your preferred playstyle.

In Monster Hunter Wilds, players can choose from a diverse arsenal of weapons, each offering a unique approach to combat. From the heavy, powerful Great Sword to the agile Dual Blades, and the long-range Bowgun, the variety is almost overwhelming.

While the iconic Great Sword and Switch Axe might tempt you due to their prominence in the series, these heavy weapons require a specific technique, focusing on deliberate swings rather than brute force, making them challenging for beginners. Instead, consider starting with something more agile like the Dual Blades, which offer quick attacks and dodges, transforming your experience. Using a Great Sword feels like the strategic combat of *Dark Souls*, while the Dual Blades evoke the fast-paced action of *Devil May Cry*.

Wilds has modernized the combat system to align more closely with recent action games, making it more intuitive for newcomers. However, unlike other action RPGs where playstyle customization comes from skill trees, in Monster Hunter, your weapon choice is crucial.

The weapon you choose at the outset shapes your entire gameplay experience. If you crave speed and combo-heavy action reminiscent of Dante from Devil May Cry, the Dual Blades are perfect, relying on rapid attacks, quick dodges, and a meter that, once filled, unleashes a flurry of attacks on downed foes.

Which Monster Hunter Playstyle Do You Prefer? ---------------------------------------------

The bigger the weapon, the better.Give me speed. More speed.Ranged attacks are the best.I like mixing-and-matching different weapon styles.

AnswerSee ResultsConversely, if you prefer a balance of heavy damage and defensive capabilities with mobility, the Sword and Shield is an excellent starting point. The less popular Lance combines a large weapon with a shield, offering unique parries and counter-attacks that, while requiring practice, provide a distinctive combat experience.

Ranged weapons like the Bowguns are just as potent as melee options. When selecting these, ensure you have ample ammo and choose the right type for the monster you're facing.

With 14 weapons to choose from, each with distinct abilities, they fall into three main categories: heavy, which deliver massive damage at the cost of speed; light, known for rapid attacks; and technical weapons. Some weapons blend these categories, such as the Gunlance with its ranged capabilities, the Charge Blade that can switch between a large axe and a smaller blade, and the Insect Glaive and Hunting Horn, which can grant unique buffs through specific combos.

Don't let the vast selection overwhelm you. Experiment with each weapon in the game's tutorial before committing. You're sure to find the perfect fit, whether you want to unleash chaos like Dante or adopt a more strategic approach akin to Dark Souls.