Monster Hunter Wilds Official Launch Megathread

[Megathread] Monster Hunter Wilds Official Launch

PLEASE note this megathread does contain spoilers.

Welcome, Hunters!
Monster Hunter Wilds is officially here! This thread is for sharing your initial thoughts, seeking answers, organizing hunts, and talking all things MHW (Wilds edition). Let’s keep everything in one place to minimize confusion and make it easier for new players to find the info they need quickly.

Table of Contents

  1. Release Details
  2. Editions & Pricing
  3. Getting Started: Quick Tips
  4. Spoiler Policy
  5. FAQs
  6. Technical Issues & Workarounds
  7. Helpful Resources & Links
  8. Community Etiquette
  9. Ongoing Updates

1. Monster Hunter Wilds Release Details

  • Release Date: February 28, 2025
  • Platforms: PlayStation 5, Windows, Xbox Series X/S
  • File Size: 52.8GB on PlayStation 5 & 75GB on PC
  • Launch Window:
    • Los Angeles - USA: Feb 27, 9pm PST
    • Mexico City - Mexico: Feb 27, 11pm CST
    • Toronto - Canada: Feb 28, 12am EST
    • New York - USA: Feb 28, 12am EST
    • São Paulo - Brazil: Feb 28, 2am BRT
    • London - UK: Feb 28, 5am GMT
    • Paris - France: Feb 28, 6am CET
    • Berlin - Germany: Feb 28, 6am CET
    • Cairo - Egypt: Feb 28, 7am EET
    • Helsinki - Finland: Feb 28, 7am EET
    • Johannesburg - South Africa: Feb 28, 7am SAST
    • Dubai - United Arab Emirates: Feb 28, 9am GST
    • Singapore - Singapore: Feb 28, 1pm SGT
    • Tokyo - Japan: Feb 28, 2pm JST
    • Auckland - New Zealand: Feb 28, 6pm NZDT

2. Editions & Pricing

  1. Standard Edition

    • $69.99
    • Pre-order bonuses: Hope Charm Talisman and Guild Knight Layered Armor Set (only cosmetic)

  2. Monster Hunter Wilds Steelbook Edition

    • $74.99
    • Includes the same content as the Standard Edition + a well-built metal case. (Includes the same bonuses if it is pre-ordered)

  3. Monster Hunter Wilds Deluxe Edition

    • $89.99
    • This edition includes: Monster Hunter Wilds base game, Guild Knight Armor Set and the Hope Charm Talisman. It also offers 16 cosmetic features:
      • Avis Unit and Monsters of the Windward Plains stickers
      • Felyne Ashigaru armor set
      • Battle Cry and Uchiko gestures
      • Hero's Topknot and Refined Warrior hairstyles
      • Feudal Soldier, Fencer's Eyepatch and Oni Horns Wig layered armor
      • Hunter's Kumadori and Special Bloom makeup
      • Avian Wind Chime pendant and General's Caparison & Soldier's Caparison seikret decorations

If you come across any special deals or promotions, share them in the comments so other hunters can save some zenny!

3. Getting Started: Quick Tips

  • Tutorial: The game mechanics are similar to previous versions, although new changes have been added, such as a real-time map. Therefore, it’s recommended to take some time to go through the tutorial, even if you’re a veteran!
  • Weapon Choice: This time, your mount provides a second weapon. Now, armors offer a defensive skill, while weapons are offensive. You can go ahead and read the article on Fextra here.
  • Early Hunts: It’s recommended to start with small monsters, as their drops will allow you to upgrade your equipment for tougher battles.
  • Gathering & Crafting: The drops mentioned earlier, along with other items, can make a significant difference in combat during hunts, so stay alert!

3.1 Getting Started Guide

Republished with permission from here: Monster Hunter Wilds Beginners Guide - Tips & Tricks for New & Veteran Players

Below is a concise overview of key points from the original guide.

Understanding the Gameplay Loop

  • Real-Time Map & Notifications

    Wilds introduces a dynamic map where events unfold simultaneously across multiple regions. You’ll receive continuous alerts about roaming Monsters, Small Monsters, or new Side Missions.

  • Core Progression

    Most players focus on main Quests first, then supplement that with Optional Quests or exploration for materials and resources.

Choosing and Managing Weapons

  • Pick Your Main Weapon

    Wilds gives you a flexible armor system so you can swap weapons easily. Learn more about each type on the Weapons page. For instance, you can comfortably use both a Long Sword and a Bow with the same Armor.

  • Mount & Second Weapon

    Your Seikret (mount) lets you equip a secondary weapon; press right on the D-pad when mounted to swap.

Optimizing Settings & Controls

  • In-Game Options

    Adjust “minimap rotation,” camera distance, and toggle Auto-sheathe on or off. These tweaks can improve your hunting experience significantly.

  • Controller Shortcuts

    Wilds uses radial menus (L1 + right stick) plus item navigation at the bottom-right. Customize them under Loadouts in your tent to quickly restock Items.

Exploration & Discovery

  • Locations & Hidden Areas

    Each Location has secret corners filled with Materials, camps, and unique Endemic Life. Don’t rely solely on auto-run; explore thoroughly.

  • Pop-up Camps

    These temporary camps (see the Pop-up Camps page) can help you fast-travel, but they can be destroyed if placed in dangerous zones.

  • Fishing

    Use the Fishing rod or net to gather aquatic resources. Some fish are crucial for advanced Weapon crafting and Armor upgrades.

Trading & Villagers

  • Item Trades

    Unlock Item Trades by speaking to villagers marked with exclamation points. Special Items can be exchanged for resources or unique gear.

  • Villager Material Gathering

    Each settlement’s inhabitants can gather rare Materials for you. Complete their Side Missions to unlock better gathering options.

Maximizing Food Buffs

  • Village Feasts

    Instead of a cat chef, villagers periodically invite you to communal meals with strong, hour-long buffs. Learn more on the Cooking page.

  • Meal Effects

    Some meals boost capture rewards or enhance item carving. Target invitations in specific areas—like Azuz the Everforge or Iceshard Cliffs—to capitalize on those buffs.

Recommended Progression

  1. Main Quests First

    Focus on the primary storyline, sprinkle in Side Missions for key unlocks.

  2. Early Low-Rank Armor

    Simple sets like Bone, Ingot, or Chatacabra are easy to craft and upgrade.

  3. Transition to High Rank

    Pieces like Ingot Alpha or Dober Alpha can carry you toward endgame.

  4. Endgame Gear

    Aim for Guardian Arkveld pieces (or Guardian Arkveld Beta) for top-tier defense.

  5. Weapons

    Go from basic Ore or Bone weapons to more specialized lines, like Guardian Fulgur Anjanath or Guardian Arkveld.

Endgame & Beyond

Final Tips

  • Use the Wishlist to track which monster drops you need.

  • Always visit villages with exclamation icons; they unlock critical features like Villager Trades or cooking feasts.

  • Keep an eye out for Endemic Life and Aquatic Life to complete your logs and gain unique rewards.

For an even deeper dive, including full Armor lists, Weapons, Monsters, and Guides & Walkthroughs, visit the Monster Hunter Wilds Wiki. Happy hunting!

4. Spoiler Policy

To keep the hunting fresh for everyone, spoilers regarding late-game monsters, story missions, or major plot points must be hidden. Use Reddit’s spoiler tags:

!Spoiler text here!

Outside this thread, please follow the subreddit rules about titling posts with potential spoilers or using spoiler tags liberally. When in doubt, tag it!

5. FAQs

  • Q: Is there cross-play?
    A: Yes, Monster Hunter Wilds features crossplay between PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S. BUT THERE IS NO CROSS SAVE

  • Q: How do I join multiplayer hunts?
    A: In settings, you can customize your preferences: whether you want to play online, create a clan, set the maximum number of players, and choose between new or veteran players.

  • Q: Any returning monsters or new fan favorites?
    A: This time we have some old known ones, but get ready to discover new locations and their monsters! Keep an eye out and share your discoveries—but tag spoilers for new monsters!

6. Technical Issues & Workarounds

  • Crashes / Performance:

    • Make sure you have the latest GPU drivers (PC) or system updates (consoles).
    • Try adjusting graphics settings if you’re experiencing frame drops.

  • Connection / Matchmaking Errors:

    • Double-check your NAT settings or firewall configurations.
    • If the servers are overwhelmed, you may need to wait or try a different region.

  • Bug Reports:

    • If you come across major issues, feel free to post detailed bug reports using the bug flair in the sub or share short reports in the comments here.

This section will be updated as more fixes and patches are released.

7. Helpful Resources & Links

8. Community Etiquette

We’re all here to enjoy the hunt, so please:

  • Please be respectful and adhere to the subreddit rules.
  • Maintain a respectful tone, no harassment, hate speech, or excessive trolling.
  • Use the proper post flairs to help filter content.
  • Avoid spamming the same question or screenshot repeatedly.
  • Keep spoilers behind tags outside this thread.

9. Ongoing Updates

This megathread will be updated as new information becomes available, such as:

  • Monster Monday Releases
  • Day One Patch Notes
  • Event Quests
  • Seasonal Festivals / Collaborations
  • DLC or New Content

If you come across official patch notes or announcements, share the link in the comments and we'll add it here.

Happy Hunting!

We can’t wait to hear about your wild monster encounters, epic hunts, coolest gear sets, and unforgettable multiplayer stories. Share your tips, victories, and challenges below.
Let’s join forces and commemorate the launch of Monster Hunter Wilds!

— The r/MHWilds Mod Team