Behind Monster Hunter Wilds' New Approach to Starting Weapons and Hope Series Gear – IGN First

Monster Hunter Wilds: A Deep Dive into the Starting Equipment

What excites Monster Hunter players? Many cite the thrill of crafting powerful equipment from hard-earned monster materials. The satisfaction of a complete armor set and matching weapon, forged through countless hunts, is a core element of the series' appeal.

Monster Hunter's equipment design has always centered around this concept: conquer monsters, then harness their power. Players use their skill to defeat formidable beasts, transforming those beasts' strengths into their own.

In an IGN interview, Kaname Fujioka, Executive Director and Art Director of Monster Hunter Wilds, explained the design philosophy: "While our designs are now more diverse, we previously focused on the idea that wearing Rathalos equipment would make you look like a Rathalos." Wilds introduces new monsters, each with unique, visually striking equipment. Rompopolo, a mad scientist-inspired monster, for example, has head armor resembling a plague doctor's mask (see the accompanying hunt video).

However, the developers highlight the importance of the starting equipment. Fujioka stated, "I designed all 14 starting weapon types from scratch. This is a first for me. Previously, starting weapons were basic. But, as the protagonist is a chosen hunter, plain weapons felt wrong. I wanted even the starting equipment to feel impactful."

Yuya Tokuda, Director of Monster Hunter Wilds, added, "In Monster Hunter: World, weapon designs were consistent but visually customized based on materials. In Wilds, each weapon has a unique design." This reflects the narrative: the player is an experienced hunter tasked with investigating the Forbidden Lands. The starting armor, the "Hope" series, is equally detailed.

Tokuda explained, "The 'Hope' armor is exceptionally stylish; you could use it until the end and it wouldn't feel out of place."

The deep emerald green "Hope" set forms a hooded long coat when complete. Fujioka noted the design challenge: "We paid more attention to the 'Hope' series than any other equipment. Previous games had separate upper and lower body armor; we couldn't create a coat. But I wanted a flowing hooded coat. We achieved this by investing significant resources. We want players to try new equipment, so the 'Hope' set is stylish but not overly prominent."

Starting with such meticulously crafted equipment is a luxury. The 14 starting weapons and the "Hope" series are designed for a seasoned, impressive hunter. We eagerly await the full game to appreciate their detail.