Monster Hunter Wilds pre-launch update addresses open beta issues

Capcom recently held a pre-launch community update for Monster Hunter Wilds, addressing feedback received from the open beta. The update delves into the changes players can anticipate when the game officially launches, such as performance targets, weapon balancing, and equipping skills for gear. The full community update spans approximately one hour and 20 minutes, but a summary is provided after the video. It’s important to note that Capcom has mentioned that the content discussed in the video is subject to change, and there are additional areas that the developers are working on that were not covered.

The performance of Monster Hunter Wilds, particularly the Steam version, is the initial focus of the update. One significant announcement is the potential reduction of the recommended graphics board specifications by the development team. On the console side, gameplay will be locked at 30fps with a focus on gameplay prioritization, while a focus on framerate will lock it at 60fps. However, on the Xbox Series S, the framerate is expected to be 30fps.

Gameplay changes for Monster Hunter Wilds include enhancing the weightiness of weapon hits, especially during finishers and big moves. Friendly fire will be further mitigated, including for upswinging hammer attacks. The Shockproof Jewel will enable players to negate damage reactions. The full version will introduce pop-up camps and fast travel, eliminating the need to trek long distances to reach a monster’s location. The movement speed of monsters between different locations will be aligned with that of Monster Hunter World. The beta version exhibited frequent monster movements between areas, which was identified as a glitch and has been rectified.

Weapons have also been adjusted for the main release, with notable changes observed in the Insect Glaive, Lance, Switch Axe, and Sword & Shield. The Insect Glaive will see the return of the Vaulting Dance move, enhancing aerial attacks. The Lance will receive a Charge Counter, replacing the previous Counter Thrust. Counter attacks can now be selected for the Lance. The Switch Axe will be more user-friendly in the full release, simplifying the execution of certain weapon moves like Counter Rising Slash. For the Sword and Shield, the Rising Slash can now be used while guarding, and the responsiveness of moves like Perfect Rush has been enhanced.

Furthermore, there will be a change in how skills are equipped in Monster Hunter Wilds. Previously, skills were only attached to armor, but in Wilds, they will also be available for weapons. Attack and Guard skills will be applied to weapons, while skills like speed eating will be reserved for armor. Upgrading weapons will offer the opportunity for skill enhancements, unlocking more skill slots, or a combination of both.

Another open beta for Monster Hunter Wilds is under consideration, targeted towards players who missed the initial beta, with a few additional options likely to be added. The changes discussed in the update may not be featured in another open beta, should it proceed. Monster Hunter Wilds is scheduled for release on February 28, 2025, and will be available on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC.

Source: Steam