"Monster Hunter: Adaptable Gameplay Echoes Dark Souls, Devil May Cry"

For newcomers to Monster Hunter, the sudden success of Wilds might seem like it came out of nowhere. However, Capcom has been meticulously refining its highly successful Monster Hunter series for years, aiming for global dominance. The result? Monster Hunter Wilds, poised to be one of the best-selling games in the series.

With over a million concurrent players on Steam, it's clear that everyone is diving into Monster Hunter Wilds. If you're feeling like an outsider, unsure of where to start, here's a crucial tip for maximizing your enjoyment: find the weapon that best aligns with your preferred playstyle.

In Monster Hunter Wilds, players are immediately presented with a diverse arsenal of weapons, each offering a unique playstyle. Whether you prefer the heavy, impactful strikes of the Great Sword, the agility of the Dual Blades, or the precision of ranged weapons like the Bowgun, there's something for everyone.

It's tempting, especially since it's Monster Hunter's most iconic weapon, to start with the large swords and switch axes. However, these cumbersome weapons require a precise, intentional approach rather than brute force, making them challenging for beginners. Instead, consider starting with the more nimble Dual Blades, which offer a world of quick attacks and agile dodges. The difference is significant: wielding a big sword feels like the deliberate combat of Dark Souls, whereas using Dual Blades evokes the fast-paced action of Devil May Cry.

Compared to previous Monster Hunter games, Wilds has updated its combat system to be more in line with modern action games. While you still need to sheathe your weapon to heal, the combat feels more intuitive, especially for those familiar with recent action RPGs. However, the key to enjoying the game lies in selecting a weapon that complements your playstyle. Unlike other action RPGs where customization is achieved through skill trees, in Monster Hunter, your weapon choice defines your gameplay experience.

Your initial decision shapes your journey. If you crave speed and combo-heavy action, reminiscent of Dante from Devil May Cry, the Dual Blades are perfect. They rely on rapid attacks, swift dodges, and building up a meter that, once full, unleashes powerful combos on downed enemies.

On the other hand, if you prefer dealing heavy damage while maintaining mobility and defense, the Sword and Shield is an excellent starter weapon. The Lance, though less popular due to its emphasis on defense over flashy attacks, offers a unique combat experience with its parries and counter-attacks, rewarding practice and patience.

For those interested in ranged combat, Bowguns are a formidable choice, matching or even surpassing the power of melee weapons. When opting for these, ensure you carry sufficient ammo and select the best type for the monster you're facing.

Monster Hunter Wilds offers 14 weapons, each with distinct abilities and characteristics, broadly categorized into three types: heavy weapons for massive damage at the cost of speed, light weapons for rapid attacks, and technical weapons for specialized playstyles. Some weapons, like the Gunlance, blend range capabilities, while the Charge Blade can transform between a large axe and a smaller blade. The Insect Glaive and Hunting Horn can provide unique buffs with the right combos.

With such a wide array of options, don't feel overwhelmed. Take advantage of the game's tutorial to experiment with each weapon before committing. You're sure to find the perfect fit, whether you want to unleash a frenzy like Dante or adopt a strategic approach akin to Dark Souls.