Monster Hunter Wilds Explains Cooking System

A Feast for the Eyes: Monster Hunter Wilds Redefines In-Game Cuisine

Monster Hunter Wilds is set to revolutionize in-game food presentation, prioritizing mouthwatering realism with a touch of artistic exaggeration. Development leads Kaname Fujioka and Yuya Tokuda aim to surpass the standard of visually appealing game food, creating dishes that players genuinely crave. The game boasts an extensive menu featuring meat, fish, and vegetable dishes, meticulously crafted to evoke a sense of culinary delight.

Building upon the series' long-standing cooking mechanic, Wilds expands on the realistic dining experiences introduced in Monster Hunter World (2018). However, Wilds takes it a step further, incorporating elements of anime and commercial food styling, utilizing strategic lighting and model enhancements to amplify the dishes' appeal. As Fujioka explains, "Making it look realistic isn't enough to make it look good. You really have to think about what makes something look delicious."

Campfire Cooking, Anywhere:

Unlike previous installments, Wilds allows players to enjoy meals anywhere in the game world. The cooking experience shifts from a formal restaurant setting to a more relaxed, campfire grill atmosphere. A December preview showcased an impressive cheese pull, hinting at the level of detail to expect. Even seemingly simple dishes, like roasted cabbage (a particular challenge for Fujioka), are elevated through realistic visual effects, such as the cabbage puffing up as the lid is removed, complemented by a roasted egg garnish.

A Secret Meat Masterpiece:

Director Tokuda, a self-proclaimed meat enthusiast, promises a secret "extravagant" meat dish, adding an element of mystery and anticipation. The game's focus extends beyond individual dishes to encompass the overall dining experience, capturing the joyful expressions of characters gathered around the campfire, enhancing the feeling of culinary bliss. This combination of realistic detail and playful exaggeration is poised to make Monster Hunter Wilds a truly unique and visually satisfying experience. The game launches February 28, 2025.