For newcomers, Monster Hunter Rise's explosive success might seem sudden. However, Capcom's years of refining the Monster Hunter series for global appeal have culminated in what appears to be one of the franchise's best-selling titles. Boasting over a million concurrent Steam players, Monster Hunter Rise is everywhere. Feeling lost? The key to maximizing your enjoyment is surprisingly simple: find the weapon that best fits your playstyle.
Monster Hunter Rise offers a vast arsenal of weapons, each with a unique feel. From the heavy-hitting Great Sword to the nimble Dual Blades and ranged Bowguns, the choice is yours.
While the Great Sword and Switch Axe are iconic, their deliberate swings require precise timing, making them less beginner-friendly. Consider starting with the Dual Blades for a more accessible experience. Their speed and agility transform combat, shifting the feel from *Dark Souls*' methodical approach to *Devil May Cry*'s frenetic action.Rise modernizes the combat compared to previous entries, making it more intuitive for action RPG veterans. While sheathing for healing remains, the core combat feels familiar. The crucial difference, however, is weapon choice. Unlike other action RPGs with skill trees, Monster Hunter Rise defines your experience through your weapon selection.
Your initial choice sets the tone. Prefer fast, combo-heavy action reminiscent of Dante? Dual Blades are perfect, emphasizing quick attacks, dodges, and a meter-based ultimate combo.
AnswerSee ResultsConversely, for balanced damage, defense, and mobility, the Sword and Shield is excellent. The Lance, though less popular due to its defensive focus, offers a unique parry and counter-attack style.
Ranged options like the Bowguns are powerful, requiring careful ammo management and strategic choices based on the target monster.
With 14 weapons, each boasting unique traits, they broadly fall into three categories: heavy (high damage, low speed), light (fast attacks), and technical. However, some blend these—the Gunlance offers range, the Charge Blade shifts between axe and blade, and the Insect Glaive/Hunting Horn provide unique buffs.
Don't be overwhelmed! Experiment with each weapon in the tutorial before committing. Whether you crave Devil May Cry-style chaos or Dark Souls-like strategy, the perfect weapon awaits.