As one of Steam's most pre-ordered games, *Monster Hunter Wilds* is set to be a colossal hit. For newcomers to the franchise, the series' depth and complexity might be daunting, despite the game's expected comprehensive tutorial. To better prepare for the expansive world of *Monster Hunter Wilds*, we highly recommend diving into 2018's *Monster Hunter: World* first.

We don't suggest *World* because it's a narrative precursor to *Wilds*. Rather, it's due to its close resemblance to *Wilds* in terms of style and structure. *Monster Hunter: World* serves as an excellent introduction to the series' sometimes complex systems and engaging gameplay loop, making it an ideal primer for *Wilds*.

Monster Hunter: World shares much in common with the upcoming Monster Hunter Wilds. | Image credit: Capcom

Why Monster Hunter: World?

If you're up-to-date with Capcom's recent releases, you might wonder why not start with *Monster Hunter Rise*, the latest entry in the series. While *Rise* is an excellent game, *Monster Hunter Wilds* appears to be a direct successor to *World* rather than *Rise*. *Rise* introduced innovative mechanics like rideable mounts and the Wirebug grapple, but these came at the cost of the larger, seamless zones found in *World*. Originally designed for the Nintendo Switch, *Rise* focused on speed and smaller zones, which streamlined the gameplay but reduced the grand scale and intricate ecosystem tracking that *World* excelled in. *Wilds* seems poised to recapture and expand upon these elements, making *World* the perfect preparation ground.

*Monster Hunter: World* features expansive zones and emphasizes tracking monsters through detailed ecosystems, serving as the blueprint for *Wilds'* larger open areas. This game will give you a taste of the thrilling, expansive hunts across varied terrain that modern *Monster Hunter* is known for. While *Wilds'* story isn't a direct continuation of *World*, the latter's approach to storytelling and campaign structure will set your expectations for *Wilds*. You'll encounter familiar elements like the Hunter's Guild and your Palico companions, though these will be standalone features, much like the recurring motifs in the *Final Fantasy* series.

Practice, Practice, Practice

Beyond familiarizing yourself with the *Monster Hunter* universe, the strongest argument for playing *World* first is its challenging combat system. *Wilds* will feature 14 unique weapons, all of which are available in *World*. This allows you to practice and master the distinct playstyles and strategies of each weapon. Whether it's the swift dual blades or the powerful greatsword, *World* serves as a training ground to learn these weapons' intricacies and find your preferred style.

Learning the intricacies of bows, swords, and switch axes is a big part of Monster Hunter. | Image credit: Capcom

In *Monster Hunter*, your weapon is your identity. Unlike traditional RPGs where you gain skills through experience, your abilities and stats are tied to your weapon, much like a character class. *World* teaches you how to upgrade these weapons using parts from defeated monsters and how to progress along the weapon tree. It also emphasizes the importance of positioning and strategic attacks over brute force, as knowing where to strike a monster can turn the tide of battle.

The Slinger, a tool in *World*, returns in *Wilds*. Learning to use it effectively, whether it's blinding a monster with a Flash Pod or dealing chip damage with poison knives, can be crucial. Familiarity with *World*'s crafting system will also help when you transition to *Wilds*.

Understanding the overall gameplay loop—tracking monsters, gathering resources, and engaging in hunts—will give you a significant advantage in *Wilds*. Each hunt is a deliberate experience, requiring patience and strategy, from tracking the fire-breathing Anjanath to preparing for the bomb-dropping Bazelgeuse.

Each expedition in *Monster Hunter* is designed to be immersive and time-consuming, especially on your first encounter. *World* is an ideal training ground for understanding these nuances, setting you up for success in *Wilds*.

Additionally, playing *Monster Hunter: World* before *Wilds* can earn you free Palico armor by importing save data, and even more if you have data from *World*'s Iceborne expansion. Dressing up your Palico adds a fun touch to your adventures.

While it's not necessary to play a previous *Monster Hunter* game before starting *Wilds*, the series' unique systems and community make *World* an invaluable stepping stone. As *Wilds* launches on February 28, 2025, there's no better time to experience *Monster Hunter: World* and get acquainted with the series' language and culture.