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Even for series veterans, every Monster Hunter is a chance to learn something new. Learning how to track your prey through stinking bogs and scorching deserts takes time. Studying the ways of the creatures you’re hunting? That takes even more. Monster Hunter Wilds delivers thrilling action even if you have no idea which end of the Hunting Horn is up That said, knowing a few things in advance is helpful. Capcom created a world with serious depth and charm, but the road through it could always be smoother. Here are 10 things I wish I knew before starting Monster Hunter Wilds.
Slay First, Carve Later
The materials you get after breaking a wound get added to your inventory automatically. That means there’s no need to carve anything until you beat the monster. Given how important collecting materials is, it’s understandable to jump the gun, but there’s no need. Monster Hunter Wilds lets you focus on survival first and carving second.
Free Falling Is Fine
From sheer mountain cliffs to precarious jungle paths, there are plenty of high places in Wilds. While they might inspire a vertigo fit, there’s no danger to your character. That’s because there’s no fall damage in Wilds. You can jump, plunge, and plummet off whatever you want with no risk of losing HP. Of all the things I wish I knew sooner about Monster Hunter Wilds, this one’s up there.
Red Flash Means Dash
If your HP bar flashes red, it means a powerful attack is about to hit you. Some monsters have one-shot moves, so this red flash is sometimes the last warning you’ll get before disaster strikes. How you avoid the incoming hit will depend on your weapon, position, and cooldowns, but an early warning is always appreciated.
The Seikret Escape Plan
Your Seikret isn’t just a top-tier feathered friend and transport. It’s also a vital emergency aid. You can whistle for your Seikret even while suffering from certain status effects or after getting knocked down. Even if the hunt gets desperate, there’s always hope as long as your Seikret can get there. Looks like somebody wants to out-friend the Palicos.
Palico Resurrection
Your Palico is immortal. Sort of. If a monster “kills” your Palico, you’ll find them in your camp after the hunt or if you visit the camp during a fight. There’s no permadeath or other risk of losing your Palico completely. While you’ll naturally want to keep your Palico safe, there’s no need to panic if things go sideways. Maybe a refreshing nap will do your pal some good.
Material Tracking Matters
Collecting materials with which to upgrade your gear is a huge part of Monster Hunter Wilds. Keeping track of everything you’re looking for can be a nightmare, however. Thankfully, Wilds is a hunter’s dream and well prepared with QoL features.
One of the biggest? You can track materials on the map. Marking them lets you trace them automatically, the way you would a monster. Your Seikret will even take you to them. How convenient!
Checking Spawn Tables
Your map is more than just a way to avoid walking into waterfalls or falling off cliffs. It also houses spawn tables for each region. This lets you check which monsters spawn in certain areas. While it might not matter if you’re just logging in for a cozy day of fishing, it’s invaluable if you’re farming a specific creature.
Rest for Success
Any hunter can tell you how much of a difference the weather and time can make. Hunting during a noon thunderstorm can produce quite different results from a dry evening expedition. Using the “Rest” option inside your tent lets you advance time, changing the weather as well. That alters monster spawns, potentially making it easier to find the beast you’re looking for.
Trading With Nata
When you unlock Traders and Gatherers, you can talk to Nata at any camp. He’ll give you materials or trade for your items. There’s no need to go to a specific area to trade or pick up a gatherer’s haul, either. The only downside is you’ll need to finish the campaign to unlock this feature. Still, it says a lot about the depth of Monster Hunter Wilds that there’s so much to discover even after the campaign wraps.
Status Effect Workarounds
Needing an antidote to cure poison is a classic gaming scenario. Monster Hunter Wilds, however, offers ways to cure some status effects without healing items. Burning goes away if you roll on the ground. Sleep, meanwhile, disappears if your Palico tackles you. Be creative and experiment just like you would with your weapons. You never know what unconventional remedy you might discover.
