Monster Hunter Rise for Windows

PC port for Monster Hunter's sixth installment

Monster Hunter Rise is a premium action game developed by Capcom Co Ltd. The sixth mainline installment in the Monster Hunter franchise, this game will take players to all-new hunting grounds. There, they can hunt various monsters solo or with up to three other players in local or cooperative online play.

Monster Hunter Rise uses the same seamless map approach introduced in Monster Hunter: World. It also introduces new features, including vertical movements, wire-based grappling actions, new hunting partners, and even a new storyline. However, the game is still in the demo stage, so it will have limited content. 

Familiar gameplay

In Monster Hunter Rise, players take on the role of a hunter tasked with slaying or capturing large monsters. There are 71 monsters in the game, some of which are recurring ones from the previous installments, while some are all-new creatures inspired by Japanese folklore. As with its predecessors, the gameplay loop is the main objective. What you will do in the game is pretty simple: you prepare, hunt the monster, forge better stuff, and repeat.

To help you in your quests, you will have weapons of your choosing. There are 14 different weapon types, each offering a unique gameplay style. Moreover, each monster you hunt will provide materials that you can use to craft new weapons and armor. You can also use them to upgrade your existing ones. Even better, you can change your weapon at any of the Equipment Boxes anytime. Although, make sure that the weapon has a positive affinity to deal 25% bonus critical attack.

New story, new features

In addition to the various quests that you can complete, Monster Hunter Rise also offers a new survival mode that takes players to all-new hunting grounds. This time, it is the serene local of Kamura Village, inhabited by a colorful cast of villagers. Kamura has been a victim of the Rampage—a catastrophic event where countless monsters attacked all at once. 50 years after the last Rampage, the monsters will once again invade, and it is your task to protect the village.

More than the large arsenal of weapons, Rise also debuts new hunting partners called Palamutes. These are canine companions that you can ride across the terrain. You can also use them as an added attack option. Fans of the Palico from the previous Monster Hunter adventures need not worry, as the feline friends are still in this game. On the solo quest, you can select both Palamute and the recurring Palico to assist you. However, multiplayer hunters can only bring one to the field.

As mentioned, Rise uses the seamless map approach that Monster Hunter: World introduced. However, it will be more focused on vertical movements. With this, new tools are given to players to help with quick vertical scaling. The Wirebug, similar to the Clutch Claw in Monster Hunter: Iceborn, allows players to grapple and swing across gaps or higher locations. It also enables you to engage monsters in the Wyvern Riding.

Good game for beginners

Monster Hunter Rise does not only bring new features to the table. Instead, it eases some existing features, like gathering the malachite ore. While World streamlined it to a degree, the game goes a step further to make the gathering require only one button press instead of three. Rise also includes tutorials and training areas for new players. These include a fairly tutorial introducing the mechanics and the different things to do in Karuma Village. Although, there are three optional tutorials for combat.

However, fans of World will find the design subpar. Although, PC gamers can enjoy up to 4K resolution. The game also has HDR support, including ultrawide monitors and an unlocked framerate. However, to enjoy these perks, you would need a high-performing gaming computer. According to the requirements listed in the online game stores, Rise requires a minimum of 8GB RAM and 23 GB of storage space. 

New DLC: Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak Expansion Unleashed

Monster Hunter Rise has just released a new DLC, the Sunbreak Expansion Title Update 5, bringing more excitement and challenges for hunters. This update introduces two fearsome monsters: Amatsu, the Elder Dragon with weather-manipulating abilities, and Risen Shagaru Magala, an Elder Dragon with enhanced strength and abilities due to overcoming its affliction. These powerful adversaries come with their unique materials and components, allowing hunters to craft new gear with exclusive skills.

Anomaly Research Quests now reach up to Lv. 300, and Special Investigations, a new quest type for experienced players, offer challenging encounters with powered-up monsters. Completing these quests earns hunters a special Badge of Heroes. The update also includes enhancements to the Melding Pot and a range of paid downloadable content, such as Minoto-designed stickers and various cosmetic options. With new monsters, quests, and additional features, the Sunbreak Expansion promises a thrilling experience for both seasoned and new hunters alike.

Bigger and better hunting adventure

If you are a fan of the Monster Hunter series, Monster Hunter Rise is a must-play. The game does not only brought the well-loved gameplay but also added new exciting features. Here, you will get new hunting grounds, added companions, and new weapons and skills. Although, as with its predecessors, the game can be confusing to first-time players. Luckily, the game's player support provides tutorials and training grounds for you to understand how everything works.