Introduction
Monster hunter is a media franchise that revolves around a series of action role-playing games where players take on the role of hunters who hunt down or capture large and powerful monsters in various environments. The franchise is developed and published by Capcom , a Japanese video game company that is also known for other popular titles such as Resident Evil , Street Fighter , Devil May Cry , Mega Man , etc.
The monster hunter games are praised for their immersive gameplay that combines elements of exploration , combat , crafting , customization , cooperation , challenge , strategy , and reward . The games feature a wide variety of monsters that have different appearances , behaviors , abilities , weaknesses , habitats , ecosystems , etc., making each hunt a unique experience . The games also support multiplayer mode where up to four players can team up online or locally to hunt together.
monster hunter
The monster hunter franchise has become a global phenomenon with millions of fans and sales worldwide . The franchise has also spawned various media adaptations such as movies , anime , manga , books , etc., that expand on its lore , characters , world , etc. In this article , we will take a look at the history of the franchise , the games in the series , the other media adaptations , and some tips and tricks for beginners who want to join the hunt.
History of the franchise
Origins and development
The monster hunter franchise was created by Kaname Fujioka , a game designer who worked at Capcom . He wanted to make a game that would appeal to both Japanese and Western audiences by combining elements of fantasy RPGs (such as Final Fantasy ) with realistic hunting simulations (such as Deer Hunter ). He also wanted to make a game that would encourage social interaction among players by featuring cooperative multiplayer mode. He also wanted to make a game that would have a long lifespan by adding new content and updates regularly.
The first game in the series, Monster Hunter , was released for the PlayStation 2 in 2004. The game introduced the basic gameplay mechanics of the franchise, such as hunting monsters, gathering materials, crafting equipment, and playing online with other players. The game was well-received in Japan, but not so much in the West, where it was criticized for its steep learning curve, clunky controls, and poor online service.
The second game in the series, Monster Hunter 2 , was released for the PlayStation 2 in 2006. The game improved on the first game by adding more monsters, weapons, armor, items, quests, environments, etc. The game also introduced the concept of seasons and day-night cycles, which affected the behavior and availability of monsters and resources. The game was a huge success in Japan, but it was not released in the West due to localization issues.
The third game in the series, Monster Hunter Tri , was released for the Wii in 2009. The game marked a major change in the franchise by switching to a new platform and engine. The game also introduced new features such as underwater combat, swimming, fishing, farming, etc. The game also revamped the online mode by using Nintendo's servers and adding voice chat and friend codes. The game was well-received both in Japan and in the West, where it became the best-selling third-party Wii game at the time.
The fourth game in the series, Monster Hunter 4 , was released for the Nintendo 3DS in 2013. The game added more verticality and mobility to the gameplay by allowing players to climb walls, jump on monsters, use wirebugs, etc. The game also introduced new weapon types such as the insect glaive and the charge blade. The game also expanded on the story and character development by adding more NPCs, dialogues, cutscenes, etc. The game was a huge hit both in Japan and in the West, where it sold over 10 million copies worldwide.
The fifth game in the series, Monster Hunter World , was released for the PlayStation 4 , Xbox One , and PC in 2018. The game was the first mainline entry to be released on multiple platforms and regions simultaneously. The game also featured a more open-world design and seamless transitions between areas. The game also improved on the graphics, animations, sound effects, etc., making it the most realistic and immersive entry in the series. The game also streamlined some of the gameplay elements such as item management, quest selection, multiplayer matchmaking, etc., making it more accessible and user-friendly. The game was a massive success both critically and commercially, becoming the best-selling Capcom game of all time with over 20 million copies sold worldwide.
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The sixth and latest game in the series, Monster Hunter Rise , was released for the Nintendo Switch in 2021. The game combined elements from both Monster Hunter World and Monster Hunter 4 , such as the open-world design , wirebugs , etc., while also adding new features such as mounts , buddies , rampage mode , etc. The game also featured a more Japanese-inspired aesthetic and setting , based on feudal Japan . The game was well-received both in Japan and in the West , where it sold over 7 million copies worldwide .
Reception and impact
The monster hunter franchise has received generally positive reviews from critics and players alike , who praised its gameplay , variety , challenge , replay value , co-op mode , etc . The franchise has also won several awards and nominations from various gaming media outlets and events , such as Famitsu , IGN , GameSpot , Game Informer , BAFTA Games Awards , The Game Awards , etc .
The monster hunter franchise has also had a huge impact on other media and culture . The franchise has inspired several other games that feature similar gameplay or themes , such as God Eater , Toukiden , Dauntless , Horizon Zero Dawn , etc . The franchise has also influenced other forms of media such as movies , anime , manga , books , etc . that either adapt or reference its elements . The franchise has also spawned various merchandise such as toys , figures , clothing , accessories , etc . that are popular among fans . The franchise has also created a loyal fanbase that engages in various activities such as cosplay , fan art , fan fiction , podcasts , videos , etc .
Games in the series
Main series
The main series of monster hunter games consists of six entries that follow a similar gameplay structure and style . Each entry introduces new monsters , weapons , armor , items , quests , environments , features , etc . that enhance or modify the core gameplay mechanics . Each entry also belongs to a different generation that marks a significant change or improvement in the released for the Nintendo 3DS and later ported to the Nintendo Switch. The game featured 52 large monsters and 14 weapon types to hunt with. The game also introduced wirebugs, mounts, insect glaives, charge blades, etc.
Monster Hunter World (2018): The fifth game in the series that featured a more open-world design and seamless transitions between areas. The game was released for the PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC. The game featured 66 large monsters and 14 weapon types to hunt with. The game also improved on the graphics, animations, sound effects, etc., making it the most realistic and immersive entry in the series.
Monster Hunter Rise (2021): The sixth and latest game in the series that combined elements from both Monster Hunter World and Monster Hunter 4, such as the open-world design, wirebugs, etc., while also adding new features such as mounts, buddies, rampage mode, etc. The game was released for the Nintendo Switch and will be ported to the PC in 2022. The game featured 46 large monsters and 14 weapon types to hunt with. The game also featured a more Japanese-inspired aesthetic and setting, based on feudal Japan.
Spin-offs
In addition to the main series, the monster hunter franchise has also produced several spin-off games that feature different genres, styles, and features from the main series. Some of these spin-offs are based on existing games in the main series, while others are original creations. Here is a list and brief description of some of the spin-off games in the series:
Monster Hunter Stories (2016): A spin-off game that features a turn-based RPG gameplay where players can befriend and ride monsters instead of hunting them. The game was released for the Nintendo 3DS and later ported to iOS, Android, and Nintendo Switch. The game featured over 100 monsters and 12 weapon types to use. The game also had an anime adaptation that aired in 2016-2017.
Monster Hunter Diary (2010-2015): A spin-off game that features a chibi-style gameplay where players can customize their own Felyne characters and engage in various activities such as hunting, fishing, farming, cooking, etc. The game was released for the PlayStation Portable and later ported to other platforms such as the PlayStation Vita, PlayStation 3, Wii U, Nintendo 3DS, etc. The game featured over 50 monsters and 10 weapon types to use.
Monster Hunter Explore (2015): A spin-off game that features an action RPG gameplay where players can explore various regions and hunt monsters with up to four players online or locally. The game was released for iOS and Android devices. The game featured over 100 monsters and 12 weapon types to use.
Other media adaptations
Movies
The monster hunter franchise has also been adapted into several movies that are based on or inspired by its elements. Some of these movies are live-action , while others are animated . Here is a list and brief description of some of the movies based on the franchise:
Monster Hunter (2020): A live-action movie that is loosely based on the franchise , directed by Paul W.S. Anderson and starring Milla Jovovich , Tony Jaa , Ron Perlman , etc . The movie follows a group of soldiers who are transported to a world where they have to fight against giant monsters with the help of a local hunter . The movie featured several monsters from the games , such as Diablos , Rathalos , Nerscylla , Gore Magala , etc . The movie received mixed reviews from critics and fans , who praised its action scenes but criticized its plot , characters , dialogue , etc .
Monster Hunter Legends of the Guild (2021): An animated movie that is based on the franchise , produced by Pure Imagination Studios and Capcom . The movie follows a young hunter who has to protect his village from a dragon that threatens to destroy it . The movie featured several monsters from the games , such as Elder Dragon Lunastra , Nargacuga , Velocidrome , etc . The movie received positive reviews from critics and fans , who praised its animation , voice acting , story , etc .
Anime
The monster hunter franchise has also been adapted into several anime that are based on or inspired by its elements. Some of these anime are original creations , while others are based on existing games or media in the franchise . Here is a list and brief description of some of the anime based on the franchise:Here is a list and brief description of some of the anime based on the franchise:
Monster Hunter Stories: Ride On (2016-2017): An anime that is based on the game Monster Hunter Stories, produced by David Production and Capcom. The anime follows a group of young riders who can bond with and ride monsters, as they go on adventures and face various threats. The anime featured several monsters from the games, such as Rathalos, Tigrex, Zinogre, etc. The anime received positive reviews from critics and fans, who praised its animation, music, humor, etc.
Monster Hunter: The Animated Series (2022): An upcoming anime that is based on the game Monster Hunter World, produced by Pure Imagination Studios and Capcom. The anime will follow a group of hunters who explore and hunt in the New World, a mysterious continent full of monsters. The anime will feature several monsters from the games, such as Nergigante, Anjanath, Legiana, etc. The anime is expected to be released in 2022.
Manga and books
The monster hunter franchise has also been adapted into several manga and books that are based on or inspired by its elements. Some of these manga and books are original creations , while others are based on existing games or media in the franchise . Here is a list and brief description of some of the manga and books based on the franchise:
Monster Hunter Orage (2008-2009): A manga that is loosely based on the franchise , written and illustrated by Hiro Mashima , the creator of Fairy Tail . The manga follows a young hunter who wants to fulfill his master's dying wish of hunting down a legendary monster called Miogaruna . The manga featured several monsters from the games , such as Rathian , Yian Kut-Ku , Kirin , etc . The manga received mixed reviews from critics and fans , who praised its art style but criticized its story , characters , etc .
Monster Hunter Episode (2011-2014): A series of light novels that are based on the game Monster Hunter Portable 3rd , written by Keiichi Hikami and illustrated by Shin Yamamoto . The novels follow a group of hunters who belong to a guild called Episode , as they take on various quests and face various monsters . The novels featured several monsters from the games , such as Zinogre , Nargacuga , Brachydios , etc . The novels received positive reviews from critics and fans , who praised its writing , illustrations , action , etc .
Monster Hunter Flash Hunter (2012-2016): A manga that is based on the game Monster Hunter 4 , written by Keiichi Hikami and illustrated by Shin Yamamoto . The manga follows a group of hunters who travel around the world in search of rare and powerful monsters . The manga featured several monsters from the games , such as Gore Magala , Seltas Queen , Dalamadur , etc . The manga received positive reviews from critics and fans , who praised its art style , story , characters , etc .
Tips and tricks for beginners
Preparation and research
One of the most important aspects of monster hunter is preparation and research . Before each hunt , you should choose the right equipment , items , skills , and meals that suit your playstyle and your target monster . You should also research the monster's strengths and weaknesses , such as its elemental affinity , status effects , breakable parts , attack patterns , etc . You can use various sources of information in the game or online to help you with this task . By preparing and researching well , you can increase your chances of success and reduce your risks of failure.
Combat and exploration
Another important aspect of monster hunter is combat and exploration . During each hunt , you should use different weapons , tools , environmental features , endemic life , buddies , wirebugs , mounts , etc . to fight and explore in the game . You should also pay attention to your health , stamina , sharpness , ammo , etc . and use items or rest areas to replenish them when needed . You should also be aware of your surroundings and use them to your advantage or avoid them if they are hazardous . You should also be flexible and adaptable to the changing situations and conditions in the game . By mastering the combat and exploration in the game , you can enjoy the thrill and satisfaction of hunting monsters.
Multiplayer mode
A third important aspect of monster hunter is multiplayer mode . The game supports online and local co-op mode where up to four players can team up to hunt together . You can join or create a lobby or quest room where you can select or post quests , chat with other players , exchange guild cards , etc . You can also use voice chat or stickers or gestures or signals to communicate with your teammates during the hunt . You can also share items or buffs or strategies or rewards with your teammates to help each other out . By playing in multiplayer mode , you can experience the fun and challenge of hunting with others.
Conclusion
Monster hunter is a media franchise that features a series of action role-playing games where players hunt down or capture large and powerful monsters in various environments. The franchise is known for its immersive gameplay, diverse monsters, and cooperative multiplayer mode. The franchise has also spawned various media adaptations such as movies, anime, manga, books, etc. that expand on its lore, characters, world, etc. The franchise has also become a global phenomenon with millions of fans and sales worldwide.
If you are interested in joining the hunt, you should prepare and research well, master the combat and exploration, and play with others in multiplayer mode. You should also try out different games and media in the series to discover their unique features and stories. You should also have fun and enjoy the adventure of hunting monsters.
We hope that this article has given you some useful information and tips on monster hunter. Happy hunting!
FAQs
Q: What is the best weapon type in monster hunter?
A: There is no definitive answer to this question, as different weapon types have different strengths, weaknesses, styles, etc. that suit different players and situations. The best weapon type is the one that you enjoy using and are comfortable with. You can try out different weapon types in the training area or in low-rank quests to find your favorite one.
Q: What is the difference between hunting and capturing monsters?
A: Hunting monsters means killing them and carving their corpses for materials. Capturing monsters means trapping them and tranquilizing them when they are weak enough for materials. Capturing monsters usually gives more rewards than hunting them, but it also requires more preparation and timing. Some quests require you to hunt or capture a specific monster, while others give you the option to choose.
Q: How can I get better at monster hunter?
A: The best way to get better at monster hunter is to practice and learn from your mistakes. You can also watch videos or read guides from other players who are more experienced or skilled than you. You can also ask for advice or help from other players online or offline. You can also challenge yourself by taking on harder quests or monsters or using different weapons or equipment.
Q: What is the best monster in monster hunter?
A: There is no definitive answer to this question, as different monsters have different appearances, behaviors, abilities, weaknesses, habitats, ecosystems, etc. that make them unique and interesting. The best monster is the one that you find the most fun and challenging to hunt. You can try out different monsters in the game to discover their secrets and surprises.
Q: What is the best game in the monster hunter series?
A: There is no definitive answer to this question, as different games in the series have different features, stories, graphics, etc. that appeal to different players and preferences. The best game is the one that you enjoy playing and exploring the most. You can try out different games in the series to experience their differences and similarities.
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