Jump into the heart of an untamed world with Monster Hunter Wilds, set to make its debut on the PS5 this February 28. We recently had the chance to dive into the opening missions of Chapter 1, pitting ourselves against towering foes like the newly introduced monster, Quematrice, while traversing the mesmerizing Scarlet Forest.
Introducing Built-in Equipment Skills for Your Arsenal
In earlier installments of the series, hunters primarily relied on armor, talismans, and decorations to enhance their skills. But Monster Hunter Wilds shakes things up by integrating Equipment Skills directly into weapons, even those you pick up early on. Take the Great Sword Buster Sword I, for instance; it comes packed with Critical Draw. Meanwhile, the Bone Blade II offers Focus and an Attack Boost. Plus, the game now lets you switch between two weapons on the fly during hunts, allowing you to combine melee and ranged weapons to bring even more skill varieties to the battlefield.
Confronting the Fiery Brute Wyvern, Quematrice
Straight after escorting a pair of siblings, players find themselves face to face with the mighty Quematrice. This formidable creature joins the Monster Hunter Wilds roster, launching vicious attacks at those who dare to challenge it. It has a knack for spreading a flammable substance by dragging its tail, setting the hunter ablaze and leaving them in a Fireblight state, where health steadily drops. Navigating the initial mission teaches you to counter this fiery predicament with Nulberries or skillful dodging.
Venturing Seamlessly from Windward Plains to Scarlet Forest
As the story progresses, hunters venture into the Scarlet Forest in search of the elusive Doshagumas. I was stunned by the smooth journey from the Windward Plains to this new territory, all without a single load screen interrupting the adventure. This feature showcases how massive and interconnected these game environments truly are.
The landscape of the Scarlet Forest is a sight to behold, dominated by towering trees and rivers of deep red. The backdrop is a drastic shift from the dusty deserts and rugged cliffs of the Windward Plains, offering you a refreshing visual experience. Alongside new fauna, I stumbled upon a quaint hideout belonging to the Wudwuds, a Lynian tribe, and I’m eager to see more when the full game lands.
The Threat of Lala Barina’s Scarlet Silk Attacks
Making its presence known in the Scarlet Forest is the Temnoceran, Lala Barina. This creature is cunning, striking from both treetops and mid-air, waiting to entrap unsuspecting hunters. Beware of its red spores, launched through an opening that reveals a cluster of red hairs resembling a budding flower. I skillfully dodged these sporadic attacks, mindful that a direct hit could result in Paralysis.
Engaging Battle with the Congalala
Next up was the Pink Fur Beast, Congalala, making its return after a hiatus from Monster Hunter World. Known for its distinct pink coat and pungent attacks, this brute can inflict the Stench status with both gas and gusts. Packing an arsenal of Deodorants is wise to clear up the effects of these smelly assaults. Despite its large frame, Congalala’s powerful arm strikes are surprisingly swift and, when threatened, it retreats into a throng of smaller Congas, launching a group offensive.
The Climactic Encounter with Uth Duna, Apex Predator of the Scarlet Forest
Chapter 1 climaxes with the showdown against Uth Duna, a Leviathan reigning supreme in the Scarlet Forest. Capable of devastating water attacks that sap stamina, its signature move is a colossal body slam after an aerial boost, capable of felling sizable trees. When Uth Duna takes flight, the best tactic is to stay nimble and evade diligently.
Help comes from Olivia, an ally from the Forbidden Lands Expedition Team, who distracts Uth Duna, creating openings for strategic attacks. However, the creature’s unique ability to surround itself with a water-infused protective shield and alter its appearance means focusing your strikes on weaker points is essential for victory.
Having only scratched the surface with the primary missions in Chapter 1, I am eagerly anticipating the chance to craft gear from side quests and further explore the vast, breathtaking landscapes of Monster Hunter Wilds when it makes its official release on February 28 on PS5.
Note: The visuals and videos were captured from a game version still in development, and may not reflect the final product.
