Hands-On Impressions of Monster Hunter Wilds – PlayStation.Blog

Dive into the untamed wilderness with Monster Hunter Wilds, hitting the PS5 on February 28. I recently had the chance to immerse myself in the first chapter’s primary missions. The adventure is packed with awe-inspiring encounters with massive beasts, including the formidable new monster Quematrice, as well as the lush expanse of the Scarlet Forest.

Weapons now include built-in Equipment Skills

In past iterations of the series, players relied heavily on armor, talismans, and decorations to enhance their hunting skills. But Monster Hunter Wilds takes a fresh approach by integrating Equipment Skills directly into the weapons, even those available early in the game. For instance, the Great Sword Buster Sword I is equipped with Critical Draw, while Bone Blade II comes with Focus and Attack Boost. With the game’s new feature allowing you to switch between two weapons mid-hunt, mixing a melee and a ranged weapon has never been more strategic.

Confronting the Brute Wyvern, Quematrice, and its molten rage

As you escort the siblings, you’ll stumble upon the fierce Brute Wyvern, Quematrice, making its debut in Monster Hunter Wilds. This beast, when provoked, lunges at the hunter and unleashes a combustible substance along the ground by dragging its long tail. This attack can ignite a Fireblight state, slowly depleting your health. The first mission teaches valuable lessons in handling this status, whether by consuming Nulberries or mastering tactical evasion.

A seamless journey from Windward Plains to Scarlet Forest

During the quest, I was thrilled to hop on my Seikret and traverse seamlessly from the Windward Plains to the Scarlet Forest without the annoyance of loading screens. This fluid transition showcases the interconnected vastness of Monster Hunter Wilds’ ecosystems.

The Scarlet Forest offers a breathtaking shift in scenery with its majestic trees and unique red-hued waters. A stark contrast to the dunes and rocky terrain of the Windward Plains, this vibrant forest teems with life and hidden secrets. I encountered creatures distinct from those in the plains and stumbled upon the Wudwuds, a Lynian tribe with their own secluded hideout. I can’t wait to further explore this enchanting forest once the full game drops.

The intimidating Lala Barina and its crimson reign

First, in the Scarlet Forest’s monstrous roll call, you’ll meet the agile Temnoceran, Lala Barina. This creature thinks nothing of launching attacks from its silken perch in the trees or making surprise assaults from above. It sprays red spores and displays its scarlet, rose-like thorax hairs during combat. While I managed to dodge these deadly spores, they can inflict Paralysis if they hit their mark.

An exhilarating showdown with the Congalala

Next on my Scarlet Forest journey was a face-off with the Pink Fur Beast, Congalala. While Monster Hunter World didn’t include this beast, fans of the series will recognize it from previous games. Known for its distinct pink fur and notorious flatulence that inflicts a Stench status, Congalala’s attacks are nothing to shrug at.

Beyond its gas attacks, Congalala unleashes damaging belches, making Deodorants a hunter’s best friend against its Stench-inflicting moves. Its surprisingly nimble strikes are as powerful as they are unexpected. Watch out when it retreats into a swarm of smaller Congas for a more coordinated attack.

A fierce battle with Scarlet Forest’s apex predator, Uth Duna

Concluding Chapter 1 intensifies with the hunt for Uth Duna, a massive Leviathan ruling over the Scarlet Forest. Known for its potent water attacks causing Waterblight, which hinders stamina recovery, Uth Duna is a mighty adversary. Its awe-inspiring body slam from above not only deals serious damage but also knocks down huge trees in its wake. Evasion is crucial when this towering beast launches its signature attack.

Luckily, Olivia from the Forbidden Lands Expedition Team joins the battle, offering much-needed support. With Uth Duna distracted, hunters can capitalize by launching attacks from its sides or rear. However, Uth Duna showcases a unique defense mechanism by secreting fluids that create a protective veil when mixed with water. This veil reduces the damage of incoming attacks, so targeting exposed areas is vital. Activate Focus Mode to zero in on unprotected spots for an advantageous strike.

My initial foray focused on Chapter 1’s main quests, but I’m eagerly awaiting the chance to gather resources through optional missions and discover more of Monster Hunter Wilds’ stunning world when it finally arrives on February 28 for PS5.

Please note: The video footage and images are from a developmental version and might not represent the final release.