Monster Hunter Unveils Enhanced Gear and Weapon Choices for Wilds

Monster Hunter Wilds: A Deep Dive into the Starting Equipment

Many Monster Hunter players revel in crafting new equipment from hard-earned hunt materials. The satisfaction of a complete armor set and matching weapon, painstakingly acquired, is a core element of the series' appeal. This crafting system, central to the series since its inception, hinges on the concept of harnessing the power of slain monsters through their remains. Hunters overcome powerful beasts, then integrate those beasts' strengths into their own arsenal.

In an interview with IGN, Kaname Fujioka, Executive Director and Art Director of Monster Hunter Wilds, elucidated the design philosophy behind the game's equipment. While design diversity has expanded, the team historically prioritized a strong thematic link between monster and equipment. "If you're wearing Rathalos' equipment, you'll look like Rathalos," Fujioka explained. Wilds introduces new monsters and their unique equipment, exemplified by Rompopolo's head armor, resembling a plague doctor's mask, reflecting the monster's mad scientist aesthetic. (See the hunt video below.)

However, the developers emphasize the significance of the initial hunter equipment. Fujioka stated, "I designed the starting weapons for all 14 weapon types from scratch. That's a first for me. Previously, starting weapons were primitive. But our protagonist is a chosen hunter; plain weapons wouldn't fit. I aimed for a 'star' feeling, even with starting gear."

Yuya Tokuda, Director of Monster Hunter Wilds, added, "In World, weapon designs retained a base form, customized by monster materials. In Wilds, each weapon boasts a unique design." This reflects the narrative: the player is an experienced hunter tasked with investigating the Forbidden Lands. The starting armor, the "Hope" series, also reflects this narrative focus.

The Hope set, a deep emerald green ensemble forming a hooded long coat, presented unique design challenges. Fujioka explained, "We invested more in the Hope series than any other equipment. Previous games had separate upper and lower body armor; we couldn't create a coat. But I wanted a flowing hooded coat. We achieved this by dedicating significant resources. Players will discover diverse equipment, and we encourage experimentation. The Hope series aims for elegant coolness without overshadowing later finds."

Starting the game with such meticulously crafted equipment is a noteworthy feature. The 14 starting weapons and the Hope series are designed to portray the player as a formidable hunter from the outset. We eagerly anticipate experiencing their detail in the final game.