Former Monster Hunter Dev Explains Why Wilds Doesnt Have Underwater Combat

Former Monster Hunter Dev Explains Why Wilds Doesnt Have Underwater Combat

Key Takeaways

  • Monster Hunter Wilds ditches underwater combat, opting for larger landscapes and a new map system for exploration.
  • Fans remain hopeful for future DLC adding underwater combat, but the game will focus on user-friendly features.
  • Despite the absence of underwater battles, Monster Hunter Wilds promises evolved action and improved immersion.

As a seasoned Monster Hunter veteran who’s navigated the treacherous waters of Rathalos and the depths of Lagiacrus, I must admit, I was initially disheartened to hear that underwater combat would not be present in Monster Hunter Wilds. However, after witnessing the vast landscapes and dynamic climate changes promised by Capcom for this upcoming title, my excitement has been rekindled.


The upcoming game in Capcom’s Monster Hunter series, titled “Monster Hunter Wilds,” is generating buzz as a significant addition to the franchise due to its innovative mechanics. While fans are eager for underwater combat to make a return, a previous producer has clarified why it’s not featured in Monster Hunter Wilds. Nevertheless, enthusiasts have been excited by the developer’s presentations at Gamescom 2024, offering glimpses into underwater gameplay.

2025’s version of Monster Hunter Wilds may not include underwater battles, but it offers a fresh and expansive map system filled with vast landscapes for players to traverse and endure. The environment in this installment is dynamic, featuring extreme climates and habitats teeming with wildlife that have adapted to their unique ecosystems.

During Gamescom 2024, developers of “Monster Hunter Wilds” unveiled new gameplay insights into the core aspects of the game. A two-hour live stream offered a sneak peek at the game’s underwater segment, revealing that underwater combat will not be featured in the successor to “Monster Hunter: World”. Despite fans eagerly anticipating water battles, Shintaro Kojima, a former assistant producer from “Monster Hunter Tri”, explained in a tweet why this mechanic won’t make a comeback. He stated that incorporating underwater combat would essentially create a separate game and it’s extremely challenging due to its complexity.

Monster Hunter Tri Producer Explains Wilds’ Missing Underwater Combat

Just like the anticipation surrounding the Wilds‘ expansion, fans of Horizon Forbidden West had hoped for underwater combat. However, the Burning Shores DLC only allowed players to draw enemies onto land and fight them there. In a similar fashion, enthusiasts of Monster Hunter are eagerly awaiting underwater combat in future Wilds‘ DLC expansions, possibly with a vast archipelago map featuring various island biomes. Playfully, some Redditors have suggested potential names for this hypothetical DLC, such as “Monster Hunter Wilds: Oceanbound” and “Monster Hunter: Wet ‘n Wilds.”

While some fans of ‘Monster Hunter Wilds’ were uncertain about the inclusion of an advanced combat system in DLC content, it’s important to remember the array of fresh features slated for the upcoming release. The game is introducing a new feature called Focus Mode, which simplifies hunts for beginners, and it will also modify SOS Flares, allowing players a more tailored hunting experience.

For the moment, the exact launch date of “Monster Hunter Wilds” remains undisclosed, but if it adheres to Capcom’s traditional release strategy, its launch window could significantly contribute to its success. In the meantime, enthusiasts can anticipate further updates and gameplay previews, including confirmed playable stations at this year’s Tokyo Game Show, happening from September 26 to September 29.

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2024-08-27 16:13