How Long Is Monster Hunter Wilds?

Monster Hunter Wilds has finally arrived on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC! This latest installment in Capcom's acclaimed beast-battling series builds upon the success of *Monster Hunter World* and its *Iceborne* expansion. But just how much playtime are we talking about? IGN staff share their experiences, detailing main story completion times, priorities, and post-game adventures.

Tom Marks - Executive Reviews Editor, Games

I finished Monster Hunter Wilds’ main story in just under 15 hours. Unlike Monster Hunter Rise, this actually concludes the narrative, not just the first half. However, completing the campaign only finishes Low Rank. High Rank awaits, packed with side quests and tougher challenges. It took me another 15 hours to complete almost all of these quests and reach what I'd consider the true endgame. This involved battling every monster, unlocking all crafting systems available at launch, and exploring the custom Artian weapon system. Thanks to Wilds' streamlined grind, I only needed another five hours to acquire my desired peak weapons and armor sets, although plenty more awaits for those seeking to master other weapon types.

I finished the final High Rank story mission in around 40 hours, roughly 22 hours after completing Low Rank. Accuracy is tricky, as I spent time in menus for guide creation. During Low Rank, I focused on progression, crafting only what was immediately available and avoiding hunt repetition. My High Rank approach was similar, but I diverted from story missions to hunt optional monsters with friends (often necessary for story progression). I only upgraded my weapon once by hunting an extra Ajarakan, otherwise prioritizing reaching the final mission. Ideally, I’d have spent closer to 60 hours, crafting superior armor and weapons. I still have endemic life to collect, six side missions, and at least one more optional quest to unlock. Beyond that, I plan to farm for Talisman upgrades, craft different armor, experiment with Artian weapons, and replay the story with friends while mastering new weapons. Future title updates and event quests further extend the playtime.

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Simon Cardy - Senior Editorial Producer

I completed Monster Hunter Wilds’ main story in just under 16 hours, a surprising speed compared to my World playthrough (25 hours without finishing). As a relative newcomer, I found many battles easier than expected. While I fainted a few times against apex predators, the overall experience felt quite smooth. Streamlined mechanics, such as scaled-back elemental weaknesses and crafting requirements, contributed to this. The consistent story cutscene/monster battle pacing, while convenient for reaching the ending quickly, might leave some core Monster Hunter elements feeling underdeveloped until the post-game.

Jada Griffin - Community Lead

I reached the initial credits in about 20 hours, including optional and side quests, and some casual exploration. This involved discovering hidden paths, hunting endemic life, customizing menus and shouts, and finding optimal camp locations. Completing all High Rank missions and side quests took another 15 hours. My total playtime currently sits near 70 hours, encompassing activities like hunting with friends, decoration farming, and hunting for monster crowns. I'm excited for future updates adding more monsters.

I reached the first credits around 20 hours, prioritizing the story with minor detours for crafting appealing armor sets and experimenting with various weapons (Switch Axe is fantastic!). My current playtime is 65 hours, and I don't consider the initial credits the true ending. The story feels like an extended tutorial, which I appreciate, leading into a wealth of additional hunts, monsters, and crafting opportunities. (Except Congalala. Never again.)