Monster Hunter: World
» System: PS4 (tested), Xbox One » Buy it from: Retail, online » Buy it for: £49.99
With more obtuse Japanese games that demand a high level of skill as an entry requirement in vogue at the moment, the global stage is actually perfect for a console-based Monster Hunter right now.
We were sceptical that the series wouldn’t really translate well to a console experience, though. The mission-based structure of the series just works so well on a handheld. But we were wrong. Capcom has proved with World that Monster Hunter has a claim to consoles as much as any other game series.
The setup is largely the same. You’re still a hunter, you still kill large monsters and carve off their materials to make fancy-looking armour and weapons. What makes World work so well is that Capcom has downplayed the mission-based structure in favour of excursions into the play area. Here, you can explore any given area at your pleasure and hunt whatever beastie you feel like – providing they’re actually in the area at the time you journey out. Missions now serve as a means to progress the game’s story, or to upgrade the hub area and obtain materials.
In terms of game design, World is sublime. Weapons have more combos, and feel visceral as hell when they meet their mark. Each of the game’s areas all feel unique, and the game’s focus on making you constantly upgrade your gear means you are always working towards something.
Speaking of environments, World portrays a convincing ecosystem, one where you can practically use anything to your advantage – be it higher ground or snatching a Flashbug off a log to make a flashbang-like grenade. It makes exploring the game’s world worthwhile and will keep gamers hooked.
While World is a high point for the series, it does come with old issues. It can be tough to get to grips with for newcomers, and the camera – despite using dual-analogue now – still needs work. Performance is also a mixed bag, with a fluctuating (albiet above-30fps) framerate and a rough Xbox One version. Still, if you like your Monster Hunter, this could be your Game Of The Generation.