Unlocking the World of Monster Hunter: A Game Changer
Hey there, fellow gamers! Have you ever had a game series that you’ve always been aware of but never really dove into? For me, that series was Monster Hunter. It’s a franchise that shares many similarities with some of my all-time favorite games, but it always felt out of reach. You see, I’m a stickler for graphical fidelity and fluidity in the games I play, and Monster Hunter games were traditionally locked to handheld consoles like Nintendo’s 3DS. As someone who doesn’t play Nintendo games, the chance of me getting a handheld console just for Monster Hunter was practically zero. I know, call me shallow, but that’s just how I roll.
The Arrival of Monster Hunter World
But then, something happened. Monster Hunter World entered the scene. This game, released six years ago, was a game-changer for the franchise and for gamers like me who had been waiting for the perfect opportunity to jump into the monster hunting madness. Capcom finally decided to bring Monster Hunter World to where I was – on big-boy consoles like PS4, Xbox One, and eventually PC.
Now, you might be thinking, “Wait, Monster Hunter World wasn’t released on all platforms at once?” And you’re right. When the game first came out, it didn’t land on PC until seven months later. But let me tell you, that delay didn’t deter me. I knew that eventually it would come to PC, and I didn’t want to buy it twice (especially since save files don’t transfer between platforms). So, I caved and picked up a copy for my PS4, much to the delight of my VG247 colleagues who were already knee-deep in the monster-hunting action.
The Hunt Begins
Let me tell you, the first time I picked up my weapon and faced off against a monster in Monster Hunter World, it felt like coming home. The character movement, the animation priority, the strategic push-and-pull of the fight – it all felt so familiar, thanks to my extensive experience with Souls games. Sure, there’s a vast difference in depth between Souls-likes and Monster Hunter games, but the transition from one to the other felt natural, like switching from a keyboard and mouse to a controller for a shooter game.
And I wasn’t alone in this sentiment. Many other players felt the same way when they got their hands on Monster Hunter World. It’s part of what made the game such a phenomenon. By the time World came out, the series had evolved graphically and mechanically to the point where its appeal was no longer niche. People already had an idea of what kind of game it was. It was a big game with big ambitions, released in a post-Destiny era where you could argue that it’s a loot game. I even had friends who had burned out on Destiny jumping into Monster Hunter World and treating it like a shooter with their Gunlances and Heavy Bowguns.
The Raid-Like Experience
But what truly sets Monster Hunter World apart is the exhilarating multiplayer experience it offers. The major fights in the game are effectively mini-raids, requiring a coordinated team effort to take down the monster without running out of lives and doing it quickly enough that the monster doesn’t flee. Just like in a Destiny raid, there’s a ton of prep work involved – picking the right gear with appropriate resistances, selecting weapons with effective elemental damage, and even enjoying a hearty meal at the cantina for some extra buffs. It’s a thrilling challenge that brings players together in epic battles that test their skills and teamwork.
Conquering the Monster Hunter World
Monster Hunter World’s biggest triumph lies in how it managed to cater to different types of players while still maintaining its core identity. It turned a niche handheld game, once spoken about in hushed tones, into a must-play phenomenon that captivated gamers worldwide. Its success speaks volumes, as it became Capcom’s best-selling game in history.
So, fellow gamers, if you’ve been on the fence about diving into the world of Monster Hunter, I urge you to give it a shot. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran of the franchise or a newcomer like me, Monster Hunter World has something to offer you. It’s a game that not only challenges you but also rewards you with exhilarating gameplay, stunning visuals, and unforgettable moments. Don’t miss out on the thrill of the hunt!