Hands-On Preview of Monster Hunter Wilds – PlayStation.Blog

Get ready to dive into the thrilling and untamed world of Monster Hunter Wilds, launching on February 28 for the PS5. I recently got a sneak peek at the main missions in Chapter 1, facing off against enormous creatures like the new monster, Quematrice, while traversing the intriguing Scarlet Forest.

Weapons Come Equipped with Specialized Skills

Previously, fans of the series relied on armor, talismans, and decorations to integrate different skills into their gear. But Monster Hunter Wilds shakes things up by equipping even the early-game weapons with their own Equipment Skills, enhancing the way you approach your hunts. For instance, the Great Sword Buster Sword I is equipped with Critical Draw, whereas the Bone Blade II grants Focus and an Attack Boost. The ability to switch between two weapons mid-hunt opens up a strategic edge where you can mix melee and ranged attacks effectively.

Tangle with the Brute Wyvern, Quematrice, and Its Fiery Assaults

While guiding the siblings, hunters find themselves faced with Quematrice, a formidable Brute Wyvern making its first appearance in Monster Hunter Wilds. Once agitated, Quematrice launches fierce attacks, leaving trails of flammable substance with its tail that ignite almost instantly. Getting caught in this fiery barrage inflicts Fireblight, which steadily drains your health. But worry not, as hunters quickly learn to counter this by using Nulberries or skillfully dodging out of harm’s way.

A Seamless Journey from Windward Plains to the Scarlet Forest

In one of the game’s standout quests, hunters venture into the Scarlet Forest to uncover secrets surrounding the Doshagumas. The ability to seamlessly ride your trusty Seikret across vast landscapes without returning to base is a testament to the intricately connected environments in Monster Hunter Wilds, free from loading disruptions. The Scarlet Forest itself is a sight to behold with its massive trees and unusual crimson waters, contrasting sharply with the desert and rocky terrain of the Windward Plains. As I journeyed through, I met unique creatures not seen in the plains and stumbled upon a hiding spot home to the Wudwuds, a Lynian tribe. I’m excited to delve deeper into the mysteries of the Scarlet Forest once the game officially drops.

Watch Out for Lala Barina’s Devastating Scarlet Silk Attacks

In the Scarlet Forest, one of the first formidable monsters you’ll meet is the Temnoceran, Lala Barina. This creature can attack from anywhere, dropping from tree branches or lunging from the sky. With its distinctive scarlet silk, Lala Barina releases red spores, occasionally displaying tufts of hair akin to a blooming rose, posing a risk of Paralysis if you’re hit. Though I managed to avoid its spore attacks, hunters would be wise to tread carefully.

An Exhilarating Encounter with Congalala

The next adversary I faced was the Pink Fur Beast, Congalala, making a comeback after its absence from Monster Hunter World. Distinguished by its pink fur and notorious flatulence, Congalala uses foul attacks that can leave players grappling with Stench status. Alongside its potent belches, Congalala’s swift arm swipes can catch unprepared hunters off guard. It’s advisable to stock up on Deodorants to manage the Stench during combat. Occasionally, Congalala cleverly retreats to blend with smaller Congas, launching pack attacks.

The Ultimate Challenge Against Scarlet Forest’s Apex Predator, Uth Duna

The climax of Chapter 1 pits you against Uth Duna, a Leviathan that rules the Scarlet Forest. This beast uses powerful water-based attacks to impose Waterblight, complicating stamina recovery. Its most destructive move involves an airborne body slam, toppling trees and delivering immense damage. Successfully evading this is crucial to survival. Fortunately, Olivia from the Forbidden Lands Expedition Team assists in this mission. Her presence divides Uth Duna’s focus, allowing opportunities for side or rear attacks. However, stay alert to Uth Duna’s unique behavior of secreting a fluid that merges with water to form a protective shield. In this state, its defense is heightened, so aiming for exposed spots and exploiting Focus Mode is key.

My recent adventure focused on the main missions of Chapter 1, but the temptation to dive back into the expansive and visually stunning universe of Monster Hunter Wilds when it arrives on February 28 is hard to resist. I can’t wait to engage in optional quests and gather materials in this immersive world.

Please note: The video and images accompanying this preview are from a developmental version, and the final product may vary.