Capcom promised to tell us more about the first major update for Monster Hunter Wilds, and the developer has delivered. As part the just livestreamed Monster Hunter Showcase, we got treated to some nice new footage of the new content coming to the game soon.
First things first, though, Title Update 1 will be released on Friday, April 4 (April 3 PDT) across all platforms.
Kicking things off, series producer Ryozo Tsujimoto introduced a new trailer featuring our first look at Wilds’ The Grand Hub (and a pretty sick rendition of the game’s theme). Some version of the Cantina returns, though it doesn’t look to be the one from World or past games.
The Grand Hub consolidates a number of NPCs in one place, and acts as a meeting point for Hunters. You’ll even find the new Barrel Bowling minigame there to keep you busy. The Grand Hub is available at HR16, after talking to Tetsuzan in Suja.
The trailer also offered a first look at Mizutsune, who never looked better. All the bubble and water attacks return. You’ll be able to take on Mizutsune at HR 21 or above. Of course, defeating the monster unlocks new armour choices for your Hunter.
Speaking of taking on new threats, TU1 will, as promised, introduce more challenging monsters. Arch-Tempered Rey Dau will be the first of those, available as part of an Event Quest. New armour variants are available for that version of Rey Dau, too. Arch-Tempered monsters are more difficult than anything in the game, and this particular quest is available to players HR50 and above.
Zoh Shina is also getting its own quest so you can fight it outside the campaign. This quest is available at HR50 and above, but you have to first complete a mission that unlocks once you reach HR50. Zoh Shina has some of the coolest gear in the game, which you’ll be able to forge using materials gathered from hunting it.
Arena Quests is another new addition in TU1, and they’re effectively challenges where players compete to see who could hunt the monster at the shortest time. There’s a new leaderboard for it and everything.
It’s worth noting, however, that these quests have equipment requirements, so you may need to get better with certain weapons you’re not used to. Challenge Quests are limited to two players, but the more accessible version – Free Challenge Quests – instead let you play with a full party and use any weapon you like.
Elsewhere in the update, you can also now change Alma’s outfits. TU1 adds a free one for you try, and you can expect more in the future, including as part of free DLC. Cosmetic DLC Pack 1 also arrives with TU1, for those who paid for the more expensive editions of Wilds.
Monster Hunter Wilds will also kick off Seasonal Events with a celebration of spring – Festival of Accord – on April 23, which is going to change the look of The Grand Hub and update available meals.
Finally, Capcom offered a brief look at what to expect beyond TU1. At the end of May, update 1.011 will be released, adding the first Capcom Collaboration as well as other features. Going even further, the next TU will arrive in the summer, and we got a very brief teaser of Lagiacrus – the next monster at the end of the showcase.
