Monster Hunter Wilds skips new weapons over design hurdles

The Monster Hunter development team faces challenges in creating entirely new weapon types for the franchise. Discover how they balance existing weapons and get details about the upcoming MH Wilds x MH Now crossover event.

Monster Hunter Wilds Developers Considering New Weapon Options

Possibility of a 15th Weapon Still Open

After more than ten years with the same weapon roster, the Monster Hunter series could potentially introduce a fresh weapon type. Director Yuya Tokuda shared insights in a February 16, 2025 interview with PCGamesN about potentially expanding the weapon selection for Monster Hunter Wilds.

The upcoming game maintains the series' traditional 14 weapon options - a count that hasn't changed since Monster Hunter 4 introduced the Insect Glaive. Tokuda confirmed the team's ongoing consideration of new weapon concepts during development of both World and Wilds. "We haven't ruled it out for any specific reason," he explained. "We simply prioritized refining our existing arsenal for recent titles."

Tokuda highlighted the challenge of designing a truly unique weapon that doesn't overlap with current options. "With every release, we revisit all weapon mechanics, introducing new concepts and relationships to keep combat fresh. We enhance depth through additional combos and moves. Since our last weapon addition, we've consistently chosen to elevate the entire lineup rather than dilute our efforts with new additions."

Capcom's Approach to Weapon Refinement

Capcom continues evolving their weapon systems with innovations like Focus Mode and Power Clash to perfect Wilds' combat feel. While considering player feedback from the beta, Tokuda stated, "Our philosophy maintains each weapon's core identity while enhancing its capabilities."

Regarding weapon balancing, Tokuda described their creative process: "We begin each title with clear concepts for how each weapon should feel - the Insect Glaive's aerial agility, the Great Sword's devastating power. These concepts guide our designs, though player experience ultimately validates our vision."

Addressing weapon adjustments for Wilds, Tokuda acknowledged the challenge: "Following Iceborne's expansion, all weapons gained advanced techniques for Master Rank play. Wilds represents a fresh start - we reassessed every element to ensure it aligns with our vision for this title's gameplay feel, rather than simply carrying forward popular features."

Phase 2 of Monster Hunter Now x Wilds Crossover Event

To celebrate Wilds' impending launch, Monster Hunter Now will host Phase 2 of its collaboration event starting February 28, 2025. Players can encounter Chatacabra and acquire 12 Hope weapons from Wilds. The event also introduces two new visual armor sets: the Hope armor style and a Seikret mount-inspired design.

Limited-time quests will reward vouchers redeemable for Wilds items, including Mega Potions, Dust of Life, Energy Drinks, Well-done Steaks, and Dash Juice - usable across all platforms.

During a February 18, 2025 Season 5 preview, Niantic Senior Producer Sakae Osumi teased future collaborations: "This marks just the beginning of our Wilds integration. We aim to incorporate more monsters from Wilds in cooperation with Capcom."

Monster Hunter Wilds launches February 28, 2025 on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. For the latest updates on this highly anticipated title, explore our coverage below!