The 10 Best Monster Hunter Games

Capcom's Monster Hunter franchise has captivated gamers for two decades with its thrilling blend of strategic combat and intense monster battles. From its 2004 PlayStation 2 debut to the chart-topping success of Monster Hunter World in 2018, the series has undergone a remarkable transformation.

This ranking considers only the "Ultimate" versions of each game to provide a fair comparison across the series.

10. Monster Hunter

• Developer: Capcom Production Studio 1
• Publisher: Capcom
• Release Date: September 21, 2004 (NA)
• Review: IGN's Monster Hunter review

The original Monster Hunter laid the groundwork for the series' future success. While its controls and instructions may feel dated, the core gameplay remains engaging. Confronting colossal beasts with limited resources established a unique gameplay loop, despite its challenging learning curve. While its online functionality is largely defunct outside Japan, the single-player experience offers a glimpse into the genre's origins.

9. Monster Hunter Freedom

• Developer: Capcom Production Studio 1
• Publisher: Capcom
• Release Date: May 23, 2006 (NA)
• Review: IGN's Monster Hunter Freedom review

The first portable Monster Hunter entry, expanding upon Monster Hunter G. Its portability broadened the series' reach, emphasizing cooperative gameplay and uniting players worldwide. Despite its dated controls and camera, it remains a significant milestone in the franchise's history.

8. Monster Hunter Freedom Unite

• Developer: Capcom Production Studio 1
• Publisher: Capcom
• Release Date: June 22, 2009 (NA)
• Review: IGN's Monster Hunter Freedom Unite review

An expansion of Monster Hunter Freedom 2, introducing memorable monsters like Nargacuga and the popular Felyne companions. Its sheer size and additions made it a landmark title at its release.

7. Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate

• Developer: Capcom Production Studio 1
• Publisher: Capcom
• Release Date: March 19, 2013 (NA)
• Review: IGN's Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate review

A refined version of Monster Hunter Tri, featuring a streamlined experience, new monsters, and the return of several weapon types. The addition of underwater combat provided unique gameplay, although camera issues persisted.

6. Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate

• Developer: Capcom Production Studio 1
• Publisher: Capcom
• Release Date: February 13, 2015 (NA)
• Review: IGN's Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate review

A pivotal entry introducing dedicated online multiplayer and challenging Apex Monsters. Vertical movement significantly altered gameplay, expanding map size and offering a more dynamic hunting experience.

5. Monster Hunter Rise

• Developer: Capcom
• Publisher: Capcom
• Release Date: March 26, 2021
• Review: IGN's Monster Hunter Rise review

A return to handhelds, refining console features for a streamlined experience. The introduction of Palamutes and the Wirebug mechanic enhanced mobility and combat, offering a sense of scale previously unseen in handheld titles.

4. Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak

• Developer: Capcom
• Publisher: Capcom
• Release Date: June 30, 2022
• Review: IGN's Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak review

A substantial expansion adding a gothic-themed location, challenging monsters, and a revised weapon system. The challenging endgame content and unique aesthetic make it a standout addition.

3. Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate

• Developer: Capcom
• Publisher: Capcom
• Release Date: August 28, 2018
• Review: IGN's Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate review

Featuring the largest monster roster in the series and a deep customization system including Hunter Styles, offering diverse gameplay options. A celebratory entry showcasing the series' strengths.

2. Monster Hunter World: Iceborne

• Developer: Capcom
• Publisher: Capcom
• Release Date: September 6, 2019
• Review: IGN's Monster Hunter World: Iceborne review

A massive expansion to Monster Hunter World, adding a substantial campaign, new monsters, and quality-of-life improvements. The Guiding Lands provided a seamless experience, combining elements from previous areas.

1. Monster Hunter: World

• Developer: Capcom
• Publisher: Capcom
• Release Date: January 26, 2018
• Review: IGN's Monster Hunter: World review

A global phenomenon, bringing the series to a wider audience with its expansive open zones, thrilling hunts, and improved storytelling. Its sense of scale and immersive ecosystem set it apart.

This ranking reflects a subjective assessment. Your personal preferences may lead to a different order. What are your top Monster Hunter titles?