MH: World - Must-Play Before Wilds

As one of Steam's hottest pre-orders, Monster Hunter Wilds is shaping up to be a massive release. With many players experiencing the series for the first time, we recommend preparing with 2018's Monster Hunter: World despite its lack of narrative connections to Wilds. Here's why this remains the perfect entry point before the new adventure begins.

Why Monster Hunter: World Stands as the Ideal Prelude

The case for World over newer entries like Rise comes down to design philosophy. While Rise introduced exciting mobility options, its Nintendo Switch origins led to more segmented environments compared to World's sprawling ecosystems. Wilds appears to be building upon World's foundation of vast, interconnected hunting grounds where tracking and environmental interactions play crucial roles - making World the clearest precursor to the upcoming experience.

Preparing for Wilds' Combat Systems

World serves as an excellent training ground for Wilds' deep combat mechanics. All fourteen weapon types from Wilds are present in World, allowing players to experiment with different playstyles before the new game launches. The muscle memory you'll develop for timing greatsword charges or maintaining insect glaive buffs will directly transfer to Wilds, giving returning players a distinct advantage.

The similarities extend beyond weapons to core mechanics like the Slinger tool and environmental interactions. Learning World's nuanced combat - where positioning and attack angles matter more than button mashing - creates fundamental skills that will serve hunters well when facing Wilds' new threats.

The Hunter's Journey: From Preparation to Execution

World perfectly encapsulates the Monster Hunter experience that Wilds will likely expand upon:

• Tracking monsters through detailed ecosystems
• Gathering resources during hunts
• Managing inventory and crafting systems
• Understanding monster behaviors and weaknesses

These systems combine to create the series' distinctive gameplay rhythm - slower and more deliberate than typical action games, but incredibly rewarding once mastered. Players entering Wilds with this foundation will appreciate its innovations rather than struggling with basics.

For completely new hunters, we recommend focusing on these World elements that will directly benefit your Wilds experience:

1. Experiment with multiple weapon types to find your preferred playstyle
2. Practice environmental awareness and monster tracking
3. Master the rhythm of dodge-roll positioning and timed attacks
4. Learn gear upgrading and skill management systems

With Wilds' February 2025 release approaching, there's no better time to experience the game that established modern Monster Hunter's formula. The skills and instincts you develop in World's rich ecosystems will make your transition into Wilds' expanded hunting grounds that much more rewarding.