Capcom Hosts Pre-Launch Community Update for Monster Hunter Wilds
Capcom recently held a pre-launch community update for Monster Hunter Wilds, addressing player feedback received from the open beta. The update delves into the various changes that players can anticipate upon the official release of Monster Hunter Wilds, focusing on aspects such as performance targets, weapon balancing, and equipping skills for gear customization. The comprehensive community update spans approximately one hour and 20 minutes, with a summary provided for viewers who prefer a condensed version. It is important to note that Capcom has acknowledged that the details shared in the video are subject to change, and there are additional improvements being worked on by the developers that were not covered in the update.
One of the key highlights of the update is the discussion on the performance of Monster Hunter Wilds, particularly on the Steam platform. A major announcement made during the update is the potential lowering of the recommended graphics board specifications by the development team. In terms of gameplay experience, the prioritization of gameplay will ensure a locked frame rate of 30fps, while prioritizing frame rate will result in a locked frame rate of 60fps. However, on the Xbox Series S, it appears that the frame rate will be capped at 30fps.
The update also outlines the gameplay enhancements that players can expect in Monster Hunter Wilds, including improvements to the weightiness of weapon hits, especially during finishers and significant moves. Friendly fire instances will be further mitigated, including for upswinging hammer attacks. Additionally, the introduction of the Shockproof Jewel will enable players to negate damage reactions. Players can also look forward to features like pop up camps and fast travel in the full version of the game, eliminating the need for tedious journeys to a monster’s location. The movement patterns of monsters between different areas will be aligned with those in Monster Hunter World, addressing a glitch observed in the Wilds beta where monsters frequently shifted locations.
Weapon adjustments have been made for the main release of Monster Hunter Wilds, with notable changes to the Insect Glaive, Lance, Switch Axe, and Sword & Shield. For instance, the Insect Glaive will see the return of the Vaulting Dance move, enhancing the power of aerial attacks. The Lance will introduce a Charge Counter, replacing the previous Counter Thrust mechanic. The Switch Axe will be more user-friendly in the full release, simplifying the execution of certain weapon moves like Counter Rising Slash. Similarly, the Sword and Shield will allow players to use the Rising Slash while guarding, with improved responsiveness in moves like Perfect Rush.
Furthermore, a significant change in Monster Hunter Wilds pertains to the equipping of skills. In the past, skills were exclusively equipped to armor pieces; however, in Wilds, players will have the option to equip skills to weapons as well. Attack and Guard skills can be attached to weapons, while other skills such as speed eating will be reserved for armor customization. Upgrading weapons will also offer opportunities for skill upgrades, unlocking more skill slots, or a combination of both.
While the possibility of another open beta for Monster Hunter Wilds is being considered, it is likely to cater more towards players who missed out on the initial beta experience, with only a few additional options expected to be included. It is unlikely that the discussed changes from the update will feature in another open beta, if conducted. The official release date for Monster Hunter Wilds is set for February 28, 2025, and the game will be available on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC platforms.
Source: Steam
