To those new to the Monster Hunter series, the explosive popularity of *Monster Hunter Wilds* might feel like it came out of nowhere. But in reality, Capcom has been refining its flagship franchise for years, carefully crafting a global-ready experience that’s now paying off with what’s shaping up to be one of the best-selling entries in the series.
With over a million concurrent players on Steam, *Monster Hunter Wilds* is everywhere right now. If you’re just stepping into this vast world and feeling a bit lost, there's one key strategy to unlock the full potential of your experience—choosing the weapon that aligns perfectly with your playstyle.
From the moment you start *Monster Hunter Wilds*, you're presented with an impressive lineup of weapons, each offering a completely distinct way to engage in combat. Whether you lean toward the raw power of the Great Sword, the fluidity of Dual Blades, or the precision of a Bowgun, there’s something tailored for every type of player.
It’s tempting to jump straight into using iconic weapons like the massive swords or Switch Axe, but these require a more deliberate approach—strategic strikes over brute force. They can be difficult to master at first. For newcomers, a better starting point might be something faster and more agile like the Dual Blades. This choice opens up a dynamic combat style filled with rapid attacks and evasive maneuvers. The shift in gameplay is dramatic: while large weapons evoke the methodical pace of *Dark Souls*, Dual Blades bring the high-octane flair of *Devil May Cry* to the table.
Compared to earlier entries, *Wilds* introduces a more modernized combat system that feels familiar to fans of recent action RPGs. While you still need to sheathe your weapon to heal, the overall movement and attack mechanics are more responsive and intuitive. However, unlike many other RPGs where customization comes through skill trees, *Monster Hunter* puts all the power in your hands through weapon selection alone.
This initial choice shapes your entire journey. If fast-paced combos and flashy moves are your thing—something that makes you feel like Dante dropped into a Monster-filled world—then Dual Blades are your best bet. With them, you can chain together quick strikes, dodge effortlessly, and fill a special meter that unleashes a devastating flurry of hits on grounded foes.
For players who prefer balanced offense and defense without sacrificing mobility, the Sword and Shield or Lance are solid options. The Lance may not be flashy, but its ability to parry and counter gives it a unique edge once mastered. It’s a defensive powerhouse that rewards patience and precise timing.
Then there are ranged weapons like the Bowgun, which rival melee weapons in raw damage output. Choosing one of these means planning ahead—bringing enough ammo and selecting the right loadout for the monster you're facing is crucial.
There are 14 weapons in total, each with its own set of skills and characteristics. Broadly speaking, they fall into three categories: heavy hitters that trade speed for power, fast and agile weapons built for rapid attacks, and technical weapons that rely on mastery of advanced mechanics. Some even blur the lines—like the Gunlance with its added range, the Charge Blade that shifts between forms, and the Insect Glaive or Hunting Horn, which grant powerful buffs when used correctly.
While the variety may seem overwhelming at first, don’t let it intimidate you. Take time to experiment with every weapon during the game’s tutorial phase. You’ll eventually find the one that fits your style—whether it’s unleashing chaos like Dante or mastering calculated strikes like a seasoned hunter from the start.
