Discover the Thrills of Monster Hunter Wilds
This January, IGN is excited to kick off its exclusive coverage of Monster Hunter Wilds, bringing fans a thrilling first look at two powerful monsters: the Ajarakan and Rompopolo. With two brand-new gameplay videos set against the stunning backdrop of the Oilwell Basin, this is an adventure you won’t want to miss. We traveled to Capcom’s headquarters in Japan to experience the game firsthand, immersing ourselves in the first five hours of gameplay and facing off against the local monsters of the Oilwell Basin.
New Gameplay Videos Showcase Fearsome Monsters
In our exclusive videos, you’ll witness the fierce Fanged Wyvern, Ajarakan, and the menacing Brute Wyvern, Rompopolo, in action. Each video highlights various weapons and combat strategies against these formidable foes. Be sure to check out the gameplay footage available at the top of this page for Rompopolo and below for Ajarakan.
Exploring the Oilwell Basin: A Unique Environment
The Oilwell Basin is a visually stunning locale, where oil seeps from the ground and collects in deep pools of oilsilt. Our gameplay footage offers an extended look at this dynamic area, showcasing its three distinct weather cycles: the barren Fallow, the blistering Firespring, and the serene Plenty. Can you identify each cycle as they transition?
Inspiration Behind the Design
During our visit, the developers shared that elements of the Oilwell Basin were inspired by deep-sea environments. This unique inspiration is evident in the breathtaking visuals, including new images of the mysterious caves that lie beneath the surface.
Strategic Gameplay Elements
The oilsilt environment presents both challenges and opportunities for hunters. For instance, you can set Oilsilt Spouts ablaze using Torch Pods, triggering explosive reactions that can turn the tide in battle. Additionally, keep an eye out for Chillmantle Bugs, which can help mitigate the extreme heat of the Firespring and provide an advantage against particularly fiery monsters.
Release Date and Future Coverage
Monster Hunter Wilds is slated for a global release on February 28, 2025, across PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. The game will feature cross-platform multiplayer from day one. Stay tuned for our comprehensive first hands-on preview and more exciting updates throughout January as we continue to provide you with insider details on Monster Hunter Wilds!
Meet the Author
Casey DeFreitas is the deputy guides editor at IGN and has been passionate about monster hunting since the days of the PS2. You can follow her on X @ShinyCaseyD for more gaming insights and updates.
