Monster Hunter Wilds Developer Explains Challenges of Introducing a New Weapon Type

Monster Hunter Wilds is set to be the most expansive installment in the series yet, despite sticking with the same 14 weapon classes that fans have seen in previous titles like World and Rise. There are no completely new weapon classes to explore, and the developers have shared their reasons for this choice. Though some might have hoped for fresh additions, the creators believe maintaining consistency in weaponry is the right move.

While the familiar 14 weapon types make a comeback, Monster Hunter Wilds is by no means repeating past games. Substantial modifications have been made to weapon classes such as bowguns and bows, alongside the usual game tweaks that players have come to expect. Thanks to the insights shared by the development team, we now understand why enhancing existing weapons was prioritized over introducing new ones.

In a discussion with PCGamesN, Monster Hunter Wilds’ director Yuya Tokuda highlighted the challenges of adding a 15th weapon without stepping on the toes of the current lineup. The series already boasts a rich variety among its 14 weapons, each catering to different playstyles, from the tactical versatility of the bow to the nimble dual blades and the strategic risk of the great sword. It’s a delicate balance, and the team is very much aware of the harmony they’ve struck with these options.

The decision to focus on enhancing the existing arsenal allows the developers to refine and polish what players already enjoy. Although the team did consider adding new weapons, ultimately, they concluded that their efforts were better invested in perfecting what’s already available. Capcom aims to deliver a game that feels both new and familiar, and by optimizing what players already know and love, they hope to capture that perfect blend.

It appears that the community isn’t too disheartened by the lack of new weapon types. Monster Hunter Wilds topped Steam’s wishlist charts in January, even surpassing long-anticipated games like Hollow Knight: Silksong. When it officially launches on February 28, fans will finally get to see the results of Capcom’s work in refining the series’ beloved weapon systems.