Monster Hunter developers face a significant challenge: creating new weapon types for the series. This article delves into the complexities of weapon balancing and reveals details about the upcoming MH Wilds x MH Now collaboration event.
Monster Hunter Wilds Developers Consider Adding a New Weapon Type
A 15th Weapon Type Remains a Possibility
After over a decade with the same 14 weapon types (unchanged since Monster Hunter 4's introduction of the Insect Glaive), the Monster Hunter series might finally see a new addition. In a February 16, 2025 interview with PCGamesN, Monster Hunter Wilds Director Yuya Tokuda discussed the possibility. While expressing interest, he highlighted the considerable difficulty in designing a weapon that doesn't overlap significantly with existing options. He explained that the resources and time required to properly balance a new weapon type often outweigh the benefits, leading the team to focus on refining the existing arsenal in each new title. "It’s not off the table," Tokuda stated, "it’s just that we never really decided that we wanted to for the recent titles." Instead, the team prioritizes adding new combos, moves, and depth to existing weapons to maintain a fresh feel.
Capcom's Approach to Weapon Refinement in Monster Hunter Wilds
Capcom continues to innovate, as evidenced by additions like Focus Mode and Power Clash in MH Wilds. While incorporating community feedback from the beta, Tokuda emphasized the importance of preserving the core feel of each weapon. He explained that weapon balancing is a meticulous process, starting with a conceptual design for how each weapon should feel in the game. However, the true test comes from player feedback, ensuring the intended experience aligns with reality. Tokuda also acknowledged the challenge of balancing weapons in Wilds, particularly given the additions made in Iceborne's master rank difficulty. He highlighted the effort to ensure that new additions in Wilds felt appropriate for a fresh start, rather than simply carrying over elements from previous titles.
Monster Hunter Now x Monster Hunter Wilds Collaboration Event Phase 2
Monster Hunter Now's collaboration event with MH Wilds enters Phase 2 on February 28, 2025, commemorating the upcoming Wilds release. This phase introduces the Chatacabra monster, 12 Hope weapons from MH Wilds, and two new layered armors: a Hope armor style and a Seikret mount-themed armor. Players can also earn vouchers for MH Wilds items (Mega Potion, Dust of Life, Energy Drink, Well-done Steak, and Dash Juice) through limited-time quests, redeemable on any platform. Niantic Senior Producer Sakae Osumi hinted at future collaborations, expressing a desire to include more monsters from Wilds in Monster Hunter Now.
Monster Hunter Wilds launches February 28, 2025, on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC.
