Creating a new weapon type presents a significant challenge for the developers of Monster Hunter. Learn more about their approach to balancing weapons for each new release and get updates on the MH Wilds x MH Now collaboration event.
A New Weapon Type is Under Consideration for Monster Hunter Wilds
A 15th Weapon Type Remains a Possibility
With the weapon roster remaining unchanged for over a decade, the Monster Hunter (MH) series could benefit from introducing a new weapon type. In a February 16, 2025 interview with PCGamesN, Monster Hunter Wilds Director Yuya Tokuda discussed the potential for adding a new weapon to the franchise.
Monster Hunter Wilds will offer players a choice of 14 weapon types. This selection has remained the same since the Insect Glaive was introduced in Monster Hunter 4 over ten years ago. Tokuda confirmed the development team's interest in creating a new weapon type and mentioned that they had explored the idea during the development of both MH World and Wilds. He stated, "It's not off the table for any particular reason; we just never committed to it for the recent titles."
Tokuda highlighted the complexity of designing a new weapon that fits well within the existing roster without overlapping too much with others. He elaborated, "With each new title, we refine all the weapon types, sometimes introducing new concepts and adjusting their interactions to keep them feeling fresh. We also add depth with new combos and moves. Since the last weapon was added, we've consistently decided that the resources and time required are better invested in elevating the entire lineup rather than simply introducing another new weapon."
Capcom's Approach to Weapon Refinement in Monster Hunter Wilds
Capcom continues to innovate by adapting weapons to capture the intended experience for MH Wilds, introducing features like Focus Mode and Power Clash. While the team has considered player feedback from the MH Wilds beta, Tokuda clarified, "We don't want to make any changes so drastic that a weapon no longer feels familiar."
He also discussed their methodology for weapon balancing in each game, explaining, "We start with a clear concept for each title, defining how each weapon, like the Insect Glaive or Great Sword, should feel." Tokuda added, "However, a concept is just a starting point. You can design and test it, but you only truly know if the concept matches reality and delivers the intended experience when players get their hands on it."
Regarding weapon adjustments for MH Wilds, Tokuda acknowledged a particular challenge: "Balancing weapons in Wilds was difficult because the previous title, Iceborne, added numerous high-level moves and abilities, as it was an expansion introducing the master rank difficulty. It was assumed players had already mastered the basics and were ready for more advanced content."
Nevertheless, MH Wilds represents a fresh start, with the team opting for a comprehensive overhaul. Tokuda stressed, "I was very deliberate in my decisions—not just retaining features because players liked them in the last game, but critically evaluating whether they fit the core gameplay feel I envisioned for this title."
Phase 2 of the Monster Hunter Now x Monster Hunter Wilds Collaboration Event
Monster Hunter Now is launching phase 2 of its collaboration event with MH Wilds to celebrate the upcoming release. The event will introduce Chatacabra to MH Now and reward players with 12 Hope weapons from MH Wilds. Additionally, two new layered armor sets will be available: the Hope armor style and a Seikret mount-themed armor. Phase 2 of the MH Wilds x MH Now collaboration event begins on February 28, 2025.
Furthermore, MH Now players can earn vouchers for in-game items usable in MH Wilds by completing limited-time quests. These items include Mega Potion, Dust of Life, Energy Drink, Well-done Steak, and Dash Juice. The vouchers can be redeemed on any platform where players enjoy MH Wilds.
During a Season 5 press briefing on February 18, 2025, Niantic Senior Producer Sakae Osumi expressed enthusiasm for future collaborations with MH Wilds. "This is just the beginning of the collaboration between Monster Hunter Wilds and Monster Hunter Now, and we plan to do more in the future," Sakae said. "I would love to incorporate more monsters from Wilds. We will work closely with Capcom to make it happen."
Monster Hunter Wilds is scheduled for release on February 28, 2025, for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. For the latest news and updates on Monster Hunter Wilds, be sure to check out our article below!
