Monster Hunter Wilds Review: A Mixed Bag of Performance Issues and Engaging Gameplay

Image credits: Image: Reddit user Impressive-Cry-3448 | Capcom

Monster Hunter Wilds, the latest installment in the Monster Hunter series, has finally been released, and players are eager to dive into the world of monster hunting. However, the game's launch has been marred by performance issues on both PC and console, leaving many players frustrated and disappointed. Despite these issues, the game's engaging gameplay and improved combat mechanics have been praised by critics and players alike. The game's developer, Capcom, has acknowledged the performance problems and is working to resolve them, but for now, players are stuck dealing with crashes, low frame rates, and polygonal character models.

The game's performance issues are not limited to PC, as console players are also experiencing stuttery frame rates and low-resolution textures. Digital Foundry's preliminary performance analysis on the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X and S versions found that all of them feel "undercooked" for a modern game. Even the PlayStation 5 Pro version struggles to run well, which is a shame given the game's otherwise engaging gameplay. The game's improved combat mechanics, including the new Focus Mode, make for a more flexible and forgiving experience, but the lack of challenge and the ease of grinding for materials and equipment have been criticized by some players.

One of the most significant issues with the game is its lack of challenge, particularly in the early stages. Players can easily complete missions and defeat monsters without much difficulty, which can make the game feel less engaging and less rewarding. Additionally, the game's grinding system, which allows players to farm materials and equipment, can be exploited to obtain high-level gear quickly, making the game feel less challenging and less satisfying. However, the game's customization options, including the ability to swap between two weapons on the fly and adjust the size of individual elements on the UI, are a welcome addition and make the game feel more personalized and enjoyable.

Despite the performance issues and lack of challenge, Monster Hunter Wilds is still a fun and engaging game, and many players are enjoying the experience. The game's graphics and sound design are top-notch, and the game's world and characters are rich and immersive. The game's online features, including cross-play and seamless co-op, are also a major plus, making it easy for players to team up with friends and take on challenging monsters together. However, the game's performance issues need to be addressed, and Capcom needs to work on providing a more stable and optimized experience for players.

In conclusion, Monster Hunter Wilds is a mixed bag, with both positive and negative aspects. While the game's engaging gameplay and improved combat mechanics are a major plus, the performance issues and lack of challenge are a significant drawback. However, with time and updates, the game has the potential to become one of the best in the series, and players are eagerly awaiting the fixes and improvements that will make the game shine. Some of the key features and issues with the game include: * Improved combat mechanics, including the new Focus Mode * Lack of challenge, particularly in the early stages * Exploitable grinding system * Performance issues on PC and console * Customization options, including the ability to swap between two weapons on the fly * Online features, including cross-play and seamless co-op * Rich and immersive game world and characters * Top-notch graphics and sound design