For newcomers to Monster Hunter, the explosive success of Rise might seem sudden. But Capcom has spent years meticulously refining its globally acclaimed Monster Hunter series, culminating in what appears to be one of the franchise's best-selling entries.
With over a million concurrent players on Steam, Monster Hunter Rise is undeniably popular. However, if you feel overwhelmed and unsure where to begin, the key to maximizing your enjoyment lies in a simple strategy: choosing the weapon that best complements your preferred playstyle.
Monster Hunter Rise offers an extensive arsenal of weapons, each with a unique feel. From the powerful, heavy-hitting Great Sword to the nimble Dual Blades and ranged Bowguns, the variety is staggering.
While the Great Sword and Switch Axe, iconic weapons of the series, are tempting starting points, their deliberate, precise swings require a specific approach. For beginners, these weapons might prove challenging. Instead, consider the more agile Dual Blades, opening up a world of quick attacks and evasive maneuvers. This shift is transformative; the Great Sword evokes the measured combat of *Dark Souls*, while the Dual Blades channel the action-packed intensity of *Devil May Cry*.Rise's combat, compared to previous Monster Hunter titles, aligns more closely with modern action games. While sheathing your weapon remains necessary for healing, the combat feels intuitive to players familiar with action RPGs from the last five years. However, unlike other action RPGs that allow customization via skill trees, Monster Hunter Rise emphasizes weapon choice as the primary means of tailoring your experience.
Your initial weapon selection fundamentally shapes your gameplay. If you crave fast-paced, combo-heavy action reminiscent of Dante, the Dual Blades are ideal, emphasizing rapid attacks, quick dodges, and a meter that unleashes devastating combos on downed foes.
AnswerSee ResultsConversely, if you prioritize high damage output, robust defenses, and mobility, the Sword and Shield is an excellent starting point. The Lance, while less popular due to its defensive focus, combines a large weapon with a shield. Its parries and counter-attacks offer a unique, albeit challenging, combat experience.Ranged weapons like the Bowguns offer comparable, if not superior, power to melee options. However, remember to manage your ammo supply and select appropriate ammunition for each monster.
While there are 14 weapons, each with unique attributes, they broadly fall into three categories: heavy (high damage, low speed), light (rapid attacks), and technical. Some weapons blur these lines—the Gunlance offers range, the Charge Blade switches between axe and blade forms, and the Insect Glaive and Hunting Horn provide unique buffs through specific combos.
The sheer number of choices can be daunting. Experiment with each weapon in the tutorial before committing, as finding the perfect fit—whether it’s the frenetic action of Dante or the strategic depth of Dark Souls—is key to your enjoyment.
