Over the past two decades, the Monster Hunter series has captivated fans with its iconic, over-the-top monster designs, striking a balance of fear, delight, and awe. Whether you started with the original PlayStation 2 release or joined the fray with the blockbuster success of Monster Hunter: World in 2018, there's likely one monster that has captured your heart above all others.
Capcom's renowned hunting RPG series features over 200 unique monsters, and we've meticulously sifted through them to present our top 25—the cream of the crop, the creatures we adore as much as we dread battling. With Monster Hunter Wilds set to expand the roster, now is the perfect time to celebrate some of the series' greatest beasts.
25. Malzeno
Malzeno, introduced in Monster Hunter Rise's Sunbreak expansion, is a formidable Elder Dragon whose presence is unforgettable. Its striking design features a glowing aura that envelops its body, and its ability to drain life-force from its surroundings adds a chilling vampire-like quality. Battling Malzeno amidst the eerie, dilapidated castle ruins of Sunbreak enhances the gothic atmosphere, making this encounter a memorable highlight for fans.
24. Behemoth
Thanks to a crossover with Final Fantasy 14, Monster Hunter World introduced the colossal Behemoth. Its unique mechanics, borrowed from its Final Fantasy origins, demand strategic party composition akin to an MMO, with roles for tanks, healers, and damage dealers. The challenge of dodging its devastating Ecliptic Meteor attack remains a thrilling nightmare, and triumphing over it is an unparalleled achievement.
23. Vaal Hazak
Vaal Hazak, a grotesque Elder Dragon from Monster Hunter: World, lurks in the depths of the Rotten Vale, surrounded by a sea of bones. Its ability to emit poisonous gas and its haunting appearance, complete with red flesh-laced wings and rotting corpses, make it a truly unsettling adversary. This monster's design and combat environment set a high bar for the series.
22. Legiana
Chasing the swift Legiana across the Coral Highlands in Monster Hunter: World is a thrilling experience. Its speed and precision make it a deadly assassin, teaching hunters the importance of agility and vigilance. The original Legiana, rather than its Iceborne variant, remains a standout for its challenging yet rewarding encounters.
21. Bazelgeuse
Bazelgeuse is the epitome of frustration, known for its explosive aerial attacks that can wipe out entire teams. This aggressive flying wyvern serves as a reminder of the importance of patience and timing in Monster Hunter battles, ensuring that encounters with it are always explosive and unforgettable.
20. Black Diablos
Black Diablos, the female variant of Diablos, becomes fiercely territorial during mating season. Its ability to burrow and erupt from the sand adds a layer of unpredictability to the fight. Engaging with Black Diablos is a test of endurance and strategy, making it a standout challenge in the series.
19. Shara Ishvalda
As the final boss of Monster Hunter: World's Iceborne expansion, Shara Ishvalda embodies the grandeur of the series' epic battles. Initially appearing as a rock monster, it reveals its true form as a majestic Elder Dragon with finger-like wing appendages. The confrontation with Shara Ishvalda is a cinematic experience that leaves a lasting impression.
18. Furious Rajang
Furious Rajang, an intensified version of the original Rajang, is a powerhouse. Its golden fur charges with electrical energy, turning it into a Super Saiyan-like force. The monster's acrobatic and relentless attacks make it a formidable opponent, earning it respect and fear among hunters.
17. Astalos
Astalos, first seen in Monster Hunter Generations and revamped in Monster Hunter Rise's Sunbreak, is a hyper-aggressive flying wyvern. Its lightning attacks and vibrant wings make it both beautiful and deadly. Encounters with Astalos are intense, requiring quick decisions and strategic combat.
16. Amatsu
Amatsu, the storm-controlling Elder Dragon, is a breathtaking sight with its golden horns and sky-swimming abilities. Its ability to summon tornadoes and manipulate wind creates a dynamic and memorable battlefield. Amatsu's presence in Monster Hunter Rise's Sunbreak expansion solidifies its status as a formidable end-game threat.
15. Raging Brachydios
Raging Brachydios is a brute force of nature, known for its explosive slime and relentless attacks. This variant is more volatile than the original, demanding constant movement and strategic positioning from hunters. Mastering the fight against Raging Brachydios is a rewarding challenge.
14. Glavenus
Glavenus, with its sword-like tail, is a standout for its unique design and brutal attacks. Its ability to sharpen its tail with its teeth adds a metal edge to the fight. While not as widely recognized as some other monsters, Glavenus remains a thrilling opponent.
13. Teostra
Teostra, a veteran of the Monster Hunter series since 2006, is renowned for its mastery of fire. Its ability to heat up and unleash devastating flames, including the infamous supernova attack, makes it a classic and essential part of any hunter's journey.
12. Namielle
Namielle, an Elder Dragon that wields both water and electricity, is a unique and powerful adversary. Its ability to cover the battlefield in water and shock its prey adds a dynamic element to the fight. Namielle's combination of elemental attacks makes it a standout in both form and function.
11. Gore Magala
Gore Magala, a fearsome young Elder Dragon, is a nightmare with its grabbing claws and ability to sense prey through pollen-like scales. Its transformation into Shagaru Magala upon reaching adulthood adds depth to its lifecycle, making it a memorable creature in the series.
10. Rathalos
Rathalos, the iconic red wyvern and series mascot, has appeared in every Monster Hunter game and numerous crossovers. Its enduring presence and challenging nature make it a beloved and essential part of the franchise.
9. Fatalis
Fatalis, one of the most powerful monsters in the series, is known for its ability to destroy entire castles. Its inclusion in Monster Hunter World: Iceborne's final update cemented its status as the ultimate challenge, with its fire breath capable of igniting entire arenas.
8. Kirin
Kirin, the graceful yet deadly unicorn-like Elder Dragon, is a series staple. Its lightning-fast attacks and ability to impale hunters make it a challenging foe, despite its elegant appearance. Kirin's presence is a reminder that beauty can be deadly.
7. Mizutsune
Mizutsune, a leviathan with pressurized water jet blasts, is both beautiful and dangerous. Its ability to hinder movement with bubbles adds a unique twist to the fight. Mizutsune's fluid movements make the battle a spectacle, highlighting the enchanting side of Monster Hunter hunts.
6. Lagiacrus
Lagiacrus, introduced in Monster Hunter 3, is a formidable underwater adversary. Its ability to swim circles around hunters in their bulky armor makes it a memorable challenge. Lagiacrus defines a generation of hunters and remains a beloved monster.
5. Crimson Glow Valstrax
Crimson Glow Valstrax, a variant of Valstrax with afterburners, is a visually stunning monster. Its jet-like speed and flame-shooting wings make it one of the most unique and exciting additions to the series.
4. Savage Deviljho
Savage Deviljho, the red variant of the original Deviljho, is known for its relentless rage and devastating breath attacks. Its constant frenzy and increased difficulty make it a true test of a hunter's skill and endurance.
3. Nargacuga
Nargacuga, resembling a black panther with wings and a spiked tail, is a terrifying predator. Its speed and ambush tactics make it a thrilling challenge. Nargacuga's consistent design across games showcases its enduring appeal.
2. Nergigante
Nergigante, the signature beast of Monster Hunter World, is a fearsome Elder Dragon known for its regenerating spikes. Its climactic battle and thematic arena make it a standout monster, challenging even the most seasoned hunters.
1. Zinogre
Zinogre, our top-ranked monster, is a fanged wyvern that exudes confidence and power. Its ability to supercharge with electric energy from Thunderbugs creates a dazzling light show. Zinogre's fast-paced action and iconic design make it a fan favorite and a true embodiment of the Monster Hunter spirit.
These are our top 25 monsters from the Monster Hunter series. While there are many more that didn't make the list, these are the creatures that have left the most significant impact on our adventures. Share your favorite monster in the comments below!
Latest Downloads
Downlaod
Top News
