Capcom's Monster Hunter franchise has captivated gamers for two decades with its thrilling blend of strategic gameplay and intense monster battles. From its 2004 PlayStation 2 debut to the chart-topping success of Monster Hunter World in 2018, the series has undergone a remarkable transformation.
This ranking considers only the "Ultimate" versions of games where multiple releases exist. Let's delve into the top ten:
- Monster Hunter
- Developer: Capcom Production Studio 1
- Publisher: Capcom
- Release Date: September 21, 2004 (NA)
- Review: IGN's Monster Hunter review
The original Monster Hunter laid the groundwork for the series' future success. While its dated controls and unclear instructions might present challenges for modern players, the core elements that define the franchise are undeniably present. Confronting colossal beasts with limited resources established its unique appeal in 2004, despite a steep learning curve. Its online focus (though now defunct outside Japan) remains a significant part of its legacy.
- Monster Hunter Freedom
- Developer: Capcom Production Studio 1
- Publisher: Capcom
- Release Date: May 23, 2006 (NA)
- Review: IGN's Monster Hunter Freedom review
The first portable Monster Hunter, released on the PlayStation Portable, expanding upon Monster Hunter G. Its portability was pivotal, introducing the series to a wider audience and emphasizing cooperative gameplay. Despite its less refined controls and camera, it remains a significant entry and a template for future handheld titles.
- Monster Hunter Freedom Unite
- Developer: Capcom Production Studio 1
- Publisher: Capcom
- Release Date: June 22, 2009 (NA)
- Review: IGN's Monster Hunter Freedom Unite review
An expansion of Monster Hunter Freedom 2, introducing popular monsters like the Nargacuga and the beloved Felyne companions. Its sheer scale at launch and the addition of these elements solidified its place in the series' history.
- Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate
- Developer: Capcom Production Studio 1
- Publisher: Capcom
- Release Date: March 19, 2013 (NA)
- Review: IGN's Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate review
A refined version of Monster Hunter Tri, featuring a streamlined story, improved difficulty, new monsters, and the return of several weapon types absent from the original. The addition of underwater combat added a unique layer of gameplay, though camera control remained a challenge.
- Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate
- Developer: Capcom Production Studio 1
- Publisher: Capcom
- Release Date: February 13, 2015 (NA)
- Review: IGN's Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate review
A turning point for the series, introducing dedicated online multiplayer, allowing for global cooperative hunts. The introduction of Apex Monsters provided challenging endgame content, and vertical movement significantly impacted gameplay and map design.
- Monster Hunter Rise
- Developer: Capcom
- Publisher: Capcom
- Release Date: March 26, 2021
- Review: IGN's Monster Hunter Rise review
A return to handhelds, refining console design elements for a smoother, faster-paced experience. The introduction of Palamutes and the Wirebug mechanic enhanced mobility and combat.
- Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak
- Developer: Capcom
- Publisher: Capcom
- Release Date: June 30, 2022
- Review: IGN's Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak review
A substantial expansion adding a new location, challenging monsters, and a revamped weapon system. Its gothic horror aesthetic and demanding endgame hunts are highlights.
- Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate
- Developer: Capcom
- Publisher: Capcom
- Release Date: August 28, 2018
- Review: IGN's Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate review
Featuring the largest monster roster in the series and extensive hunter customization options, including Hunter Styles that drastically alter gameplay.
- Monster Hunter World: Iceborne
- Developer: Capcom
- Publisher: Capcom
- Release Date: September 6, 2019
- Review: IGN's Monster Hunter World: Iceborne review
A massive expansion to Monster Hunter World, adding a substantial campaign, numerous hunts, and quality-of-life improvements. Its new monsters, like Savage Deviljho and Velkhana, are considered among the best in the series.
- Monster Hunter: World
- Developer: Capcom
- Publisher: Capcom
- Release Date: January 26, 2018
- Review: IGN's Monster Hunter: World review
This title catapulted the series to global recognition, bringing it to consoles and introducing it to a massive new audience. Its expansive open zones and emphasis on the thrill of the hunt, along with its immersive ecosystem and improved story, solidify its position as a top-tier game.
This ranking reflects a blend of personal preference and objective assessment of gameplay, innovation, and impact on the series' overall trajectory. The Monster Hunter series continues to evolve, and future titles may yet challenge this list.
