The highly anticipated Monster Hunter Wilds, the latest installment in Capcom’s acclaimed series, is set to launch on February 28, 2025, for Xbox Series X, PlayStation 5, and PC. Developers have focused on refining and enhancing core gameplay mechanics, drawing inspiration from both Monster Hunter World and Monster Hunter Rise while introducing innovative features. One key area of improvement is the cooking system, a significant change that promises to enrich the hunting experience.
Capcom recently discussed these culinary enhancements in an interview with IGN, shedding light on how Monster Hunter Wilds merges the traditional cantina cooking with the on-the-go BBQ spits of previous titles. The new system introduces portable campsites, allowing hunters to prepare meals mid-hunt.
This seemingly small change has significant gameplay implications. No longer limited to quickly grilling meat, hunters can now combine meat, fish, and vegetables at their campsites to create various dishes that provide valuable buffs. These buffs can range from increased attack power and defense to elemental resistances, offering strategic advantages during challenging hunts. Previously, such culinary creations were confined to cantinas, requiring hunters to return to base. The new campsite system provides greater flexibility and accessibility to these vital meal benefits.
This streamlined approach eliminates the need to constantly return to a cantina for specific buffs, allowing for a more seamless and immersive hunting experience.
Capcom also highlighted its meticulous attention to detail in crafting the cooking animations. The team focused on creating visually appealing food, employing subtle techniques like the slight lift of a cabbage leaf when a pot’s lid is removed and specialized lighting effects. These seemingly minor details showcase the developers’ commitment to enhancing the game’s overall presentation.
The dedication to making even the shortest cooking and eating cutscenes visually engaging demonstrates the team’s passion for perfecting every aspect of Monster Hunter Wilds. The realistic and appetizing visuals might even inspire players to grab a snack of their own while watching their in-game characters prepare a meal.
A second open beta is scheduled before the official launch, offering players a chance to experience these culinary improvements firsthand. So, prepare your palates and get ready to embark on a culinary hunting adventure when Monster Hunter Wilds launches on February 28, 2025. Just remember, don’t hunt on an empty stomach – you’ll need to set up camp!
