For newcomers to Monster Hunter, the explosive success of *Monster Hunter Wilds* might seem like it came out of nowhere. However, Capcom has been meticulously refining its renowned Monster Hunter series for global appeal 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* has captured the gaming world's attention. If you're feeling like an outsider, unsure of where to begin, I have a key tip for maximizing your enjoyment: find the weapon that aligns perfectly with your preferred playstyle.
In *Monster Hunter Wilds*, players are immediately presented with a diverse array of weapons, each boasting unique playstyles. From the heavy-hitting Great Sword to the agile Dual Blades, or even the ranged Bowgun, the choices can be overwhelming but exciting.
It's tempting, especially given its iconic status, to start with the big swords and switch axes. However, these cumbersome weapons require a specific approach, emphasizing deliberate swings over brute force, making them challenging for beginners. Instead, consider starting with something more nimble like the Dual Blades. These unlock a realm of swift attacks and dodges, transforming your experience. With a big sword, *Monster Hunter* evokes the strategic combat of *Dark Souls*; with Dual Blades, it channels the fast-paced action of *Devil May Cry*.
*Monster Hunter Wilds* introduces combat mechanics that align more closely with modern action games, though you still need to sheathe your weapon to heal. The key difference here is that, unlike other action RPGs that allow customization through skill trees, in *Monster Hunter*, your playstyle is shaped primarily by your weapon choice.
Your initial weapon selection will define your gameplay experience. If you crave fast, combo-heavy action reminiscent of Dante from *Devil May Cry*, the Dual Blades are perfect. They rely on quick attacks, agile dodges, and building up a meter for rapid combos on downed enemies.
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Conversely, if you prefer dealing heavy damage while maintaining mobility and defense, the Sword and Shield is an excellent starting point. 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 a powerful option. When choosing these, ensure you have sufficient ammo and select the right type for the monster you're facing.
With 14 weapons available, each with distinct abilities and characteristics, they can be broadly categorized into heavy, light, and technical types. Heavy weapons deliver massive damage at the cost of speed, light weapons offer rapid attacks, and technical weapons require more skill to master. There are also hybrid weapons like the Gunlance, which offers ranged capabilities, the Charge Blade, which can switch between a big axe and a smaller blade, and the Insect Glaive and Hunting Horn, which can provide unique buffs with the right combinations.
Don't be overwhelmed by the choices. Use the game's tutorial to experiment with each weapon before committing. You'll find the perfect fit, whether you prefer the frenetic action of *Devil May Cry* or the strategic depth of *Dark Souls*.
