The latest entry in Capcom's legendary Monster Hunter series has shattered records right out of the gate. Just 30 minutes after its release on Steam, Monster Hunter Wilds boasted over 675,000 concurrent players, quickly soaring to a staggering 1 million. This milestone marks the most successful launch not only in the Monster Hunter franchise but across all of Capcom's gaming portfolio. To put this into perspective, its predecessor, Monster Hunter: World (2018), topped out at 334,000 active players, while Monster Hunter Rise (2022) secured third place with 230,000. Despite the monumental success, the game has encountered a barrage of negative feedback on Steam due to technical hiccups, including bugs and crashes that have marred the experience for some players.
Monster Hunter Wilds provides a fresh standalone narrative, serving as an excellent introduction for those new to the series. The game transports players to a perilous world teeming with fearsome beasts, where they unravel the enigmas of the Forbidden Lands. Amidst their journey, adventurers will confront the fabled "White Ghost"—a mythical being—and cross paths with the mysterious Guardians, enriching the storyline with layers of intrigue and depth.
Prior to its launch, Monster Hunter Wilds garnered largely positive critiques, although some reviewers pointed out that Capcom streamlined the gameplay to appeal to a wider audience. Yet, many players and critics alike have praised these modifications, noting that they enhance the game's accessibility while maintaining its intricate gameplay and high-quality standards.
Monster Hunter Wilds is now accessible on modern consoles, including PS5 and Xbox Series, as well as on PC, inviting players to dive into its captivating world and experience the thrill of the hunt firsthand.