So you’ve heard the buzz around Monster Hunter Wilds and you’re ready to jump in—but maybe you’ve also heard whispers about the series’ complex menus, steep learning curve, and systems that can feel more cryptic than fun. We’re here to tell you: don’t worry.
Capcom has made Monster Hunter Wilds more accessible than ever, and while some classic quirks still remain, the game has taken major strides toward welcoming newcomers. Whether you’re an action game veteran or entirely new to the genre, you can absolutely boot this game up and start hunting. That said, a little guidance never hurts.
This beginner’s guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get started. From the basics of combat and gear to crafting, quests, and those ever-adorable cat companions—let’s dive in.
Understanding Monster Hunter’s Unique Mechanics
Even with a friendlier story mode, Monster Hunter Wilds still follows its own set of rules. Here’s a quick look at a few key concepts:
❌ No Monster Health Bars
You won’t see enemy HP. Instead, look for visual cues: limping, drooling, and fleeing usually mean the monster’s hurting.
🗡 Sheathe Often, Not Just After Combat
Keeping your weapon out slows your movement and limits item use. Learn to sheathe quickly with the sprint button or manually.
🏃 Stamina Is a Defensive Resource
Unlike Souls games, attacking doesn’t use stamina—dodging and sprinting do. Manage it wisely!
🎒 Item Usage is Quirky
Hold L1, use Square/Circle to cycle, and release to select. Or make life easier with the radial menu and right stick.
🐱 Your Palico (Cat Companion)
They heal, distract monsters, and offer buffs—fully autonomous and surprisingly helpful!
Choosing the Right Weapon (Without the Stress)
You’ll be introduced to 14 different weapon types early on. Don’t panic—this isn’t a permanent decision.
Each weapon has unique mechanics and combos.
You can switch weapons anytime and carry multiple later in the game.
Focus on what feels fun and experiment in training mode.
Training Mode Is Your Best Friend
Unlocks early on and lets you:
Test every weapon.
See combo suggestions and input history.
Toggle a dummy into attack mode for defensive training.
Talk to Luke, the feline training manager, or use the menu > Training Settings to adjust features.
🔁 Tip: Combo flexibility is high—mix inputs and experiment to find your rhythm.
The Monster Hunter Gameplay Loop
The loop is simple in concept:
Prepare
Hunt
Craft
Let’s break those down.
Preparation Tips Before a Hunt
🧭 Starting a Hunt
You have options:
Talk to Alma at camp for quests.
Engage monsters in the open world to start dynamic hunts.
Use the map to locate targets and start surveys.
🍖 Don’t Forget to Eat
Cooking boosts max health and stamina.
Use your portable BBQ grill.
Select “Recommended Meal” for safe, strong buffs.
Buffs last 30 minutes; check duration with L1.
🧰 Loadouts Are Lifesavers
Use item loadouts from your tent to refill your pouch automatically. Loadout 1 is a great default for early hunts.
🐎 Your Mount Autopilots
Tap up on the D-pad to ride and autopilot to your target. Loot while riding with L2 + Circle.
Combat Tips: How to Stay Alive and Thrive
🗡 Stick to a Simple Goal
Each weapon has a clear role. For example:
Hammer = Bonk the head
Longsword = Cut the tail
Charge Blade = Fill and empty phials
Keep your gameplan focused when things get chaotic.
💨 Movement is Key
Roll away or past attacks.
Don’t rely on dodge i-frames—think evasive, not invincible.
Sheathe and run when things get dicey.
🧠 Know When to Heal
L1 + right stick for optimal health or status recovery.
Heal while mounted for safety.
Roll 3x to extinguish fire or use water.
What to Do When Things Go Wrong
💀 You Got Knocked Down
Stay down for a second if a follow-up attack is incoming. Or tap Up to mount and escape.
☠️ You Got Carted
That’s okay! You can faint up to 3 times before failing. Use it as a chance to regroup and rethink gear.
💡 Failed a Quest?
Try a new armor set. Look for negative elemental resistances in your current gear. Upgrading your setup can make a big difference.
Crafting Gear & Upgrading Your Arsenal
This is where the loop pays off.
Visit Gemma at the forge.
Use monster parts to craft weapons and armor.
Gear reflects the elemental strengths of the monster it came from.
🔥 Example: A sword made from a fire-breathing Rathalos deals fire damage.
Monster Hunter Wilds can feel overwhelming at first, but once you understand its systems, it’s an incredibly rewarding game. Take your time, experiment, and embrace the hunt.
Now get out there, hunter. Your next epic battle is waiting.