Monster Hunter Rise: Wild Hearts, one of the most anticipated video games of 2025, arrives on February 28th. This latest installment in the popular hunting franchise boasts exciting new features like dynamic weather and the ability to swap weapons mid-hunt. The cross-platform compatibility allows you to team up with friends on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC to take down colossal monsters. Veteran hunters understand that preparation is key, both in-game and before launch. This guide provides all the preload information you need to join the hunt the moment Wild Hearts releases.
Release Date and Early Access
Monster Hunter Rise: Wild Hearts officially launches on February 28th, 2025. Unfortunately, there are no early access options. If you were eager to experience the game beforehand, hopefully you had the opportunity to participate in one of the open beta tests.
File Size and Storage Requirements
The PC requirements for Monster Hunter Rise: Wild Hearts specify at least 75GB of free storage space. While this is specifically for the PC version, console file sizes are typically comparable. Whether you’re on PS5 or Xbox Series X, it’s recommended to have at least 75GB free, ideally closer to 100GB, to ensure a smooth installation and accommodate potential updates.
Preload Start Times and Platforms
Console players on PS5 and Xbox Series X/S can preload Monster Hunter Rise: Wild Hearts beginning at midnight on February 26th, providing a two-day window to install before launch. PC players on Steam will have a shorter preload period, starting on February 17th, just one day before the official release. Regardless of your platform, initiating the preload should give you ample time to download and be ready to hunt on day one.
Preorder Editions and Bonuses
Preorders for Monster Hunter Rise: Wild Hearts are available and offer several editions: Standard, Deluxe, and Premium Deluxe. Preordering any edition grants access to preloading. Here’s a breakdown of each edition’s content and pricing:
- Standard Edition ($70): Includes the base game.
- Deluxe Edition ($90): Includes the base game and the Deluxe Pack, featuring layered armor for your hunter and Palico, Seikret decorations, gestures, hairstyles, face paint, stickers, a pendant, and a hunter profile.
- Premium Deluxe Edition ($110): Includes everything in the Deluxe Edition, plus Cosmetic DLC packs 1 and 2 (releasing in Spring and Summer 2025, respectively) and the “Proof of a Hero” music track. You can find preorders on the official Monster Hunter website (https://www.monsterhunter.com/wilds/en-us/product/).
With this comprehensive guide, you’re equipped with all the necessary information to prepare for the launch of Monster Hunter Rise: Wild Hearts. Ensure your console or PC is ready for the hunt, preload the game, and get ready to embark on an exciting adventure in the wild.
