Why You Should Play Monster Hunter: World Before Wilds

With *Monster Hunter Wilds* among Steam's most pre-ordered games, its massive appeal is undeniable. Many will experience the Monster Hunter series for the first time with *Wilds*. While the game will undoubtedly offer a solid tutorial, the series' complexity might overwhelm newcomers. Therefore, before diving into *Wilds*' vast and dangerous world, we strongly recommend playing 2018's *Monster Hunter: World*.

This recommendation isn't based on narrative connections; *World* mirrors *Wilds*' style and structure. Playing *World* provides invaluable onboarding, preparing you for the sometimes-complex systems and gameplay loop that define the series.

Why Monster Hunter: World?

You might wonder why we suggest *World* instead of *Monster Hunter Rise*, the most recent entry. While *Rise* is excellent, *Wilds* is a direct successor to *World*, not *Rise*. *Rise*, initially designed for the Nintendo Switch, prioritizes speed and smaller zones, streamlining the gameplay loop but sacrificing the large-scale, immersive environments of *World*. *Wilds* appears to recapture and expand upon these elements, making *World* the ideal preparation.

*World*'s large zones and emphasis on tracking monsters within detailed ecosystems serve as a blueprint for *Wilds*' even larger open areas. These expansive hunting grounds are a hallmark of modern Monster Hunter, and *World* offers a taste of what *Wilds* promises. Why wait? Experience it now in *World*.

While not a direct story continuation, *World*'s narrative structure and approach will appropriately set your expectations for *Wilds*. You'll encounter familiar elements like the Hunter's Guild and Palicos, albeit unconnected from previous entries. Think of it like the *Final Fantasy* series—recurring elements exist across distinct, unconnected stories.

Practice, Practice, Practice

Beyond understanding the Monster Hunter universe and *Wilds*' campaign structure, *World*'s challenging combat is the strongest reason to play it first. *Wilds* features 14 weapons, each with unique playstyles, all present in *World*. Mastering these weapons is key; *World* allows you to familiarize yourself with each weapon's techniques and find your preferred style, be it the swift dual blades or the powerful greatsword. Each weapon demands focus and practice.

In Monster Hunter, your weapon is paramount. Abilities and stats are determined by your weapon, not traditional RPG leveling. Consider your weapon your character class; it dictates your battlefield role. *World* teaches weapon upgrades using monster parts and progression through weapon trees. It emphasizes precise positioning and attack angles over brute force, teaching you to exploit monster weaknesses for maximum damage.

Mastering the hunt's tempo is crucial. The Slinger, a tool returning in *Wilds*, allows for strategic gadget and ammunition use. Learning to utilize Flash Pods, poison knives, and crafting Slinger ammo from environmental ingredients will significantly enhance your gameplay. Familiarity with *World*'s crafting system will translate directly to *Wilds*.

Playing *World* teaches the core gameplay loop: tracking monsters, gathering materials, and crafting. This becomes second nature, providing a significant advantage in *Wilds*. Each hunt is a strategic dance, demanding understanding of monster behaviors and equipment. *World*'s scope and scale mirror *Wilds*’, making it the ideal training ground.

Import save data from *World* (and its *Iceborne* expansion) into *Wilds* for bonus Palico armor. While not mandatory, playing *World* provides an unparalleled advantage. The series' unique systems are best learned through experience. While jumping into *Wilds* blind is possible, *World* offers an ideal introduction to the Monster Hunter universe before *Wilds*' February 28, 2025 launch.