Capcom's Monster Hunter franchise has enthralled gamers for two decades with its thrilling blend of strategic gameplay and intense monster battles. From its 2004 PlayStation 2 debut to the chart-topping success of Monster Hunter World in 2018, the series has undergone a remarkable transformation.
This ranking considers only the "Ultimate" versions of games where multiple releases exist. Let's delve into the top ten:
- Monster Hunter
Developer: Capcom Production Studio 1 | Publisher: Capcom | Release Date: September 21, 2004 (NA) | Review: IGN's Monster Hunter review
The original Monster Hunter established the series' core elements. While its controls and instructions may feel dated, the fundamental gameplay remains engaging. Confronting colossal beasts with limited resources was groundbreaking in 2004, despite its challenging learning curve. Though online servers are defunct outside Japan, the single-player experience remains a testament to the series' origins.
- Monster Hunter Freedom
Developer: Capcom Production Studio 1 | Publisher: Capcom | Release Date: May 23, 2006 (NA) | Review: IGN's Monster Hunter Freedom review
Launched on the PlayStation Portable, Monster Hunter Freedom (an enhanced version of Monster Hunter G) brought the series to handhelds. Its portability broadened the player base, emphasizing cooperative gameplay and connecting hunters globally. Despite its less refined controls and camera, it remains significant for its impact on the franchise.
- Monster Hunter Freedom Unite
Developer: Capcom Production Studio 1 | Publisher: Capcom | Release Date: June 22, 2009 (NA) | Review: IGN's Monster Hunter Freedom Unite review
An expansion of Monster Hunter Freedom 2, this title boasts the series' largest roster at its release, introducing iconic monsters like Nargacuga. The introduction of Felyne companions enhanced the gameplay experience, even if they didn't always ease the difficulty.
- Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate
Developer: Capcom Production Studio 1 | Publisher: Capcom | Release Date: March 19, 2013 (NA) | Review: IGN's Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate review
A refined version of Monster Hunter Tri, this release features a streamlined story, improved difficulty, new monsters, and the return of several weapon types absent from Tri. Underwater combat added a unique dimension, though camera control remained a challenge. Online multiplayer, while not as advanced as later iterations, was a crucial inclusion.
- Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate
Developer: Capcom Production Studio 1 | Publisher: Capcom | Release Date: February 13, 2015 (NA) | Review: IGN's Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate review
A pivotal entry, Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate introduced dedicated online multiplayer, transcending geographical limitations for cooperative hunts. Apex Monsters provided challenging endgame content, and vertical movement significantly expanded map exploration.
- Monster Hunter Rise
Developer: Capcom | Publisher: Capcom | Release Date: March 26, 2021 | Review: IGN's Monster Hunter Rise review
Returning to handhelds after Monster Hunter World, Rise refined the console experience for portable devices. Palamutes (rideable canine companions) and the Wirebug mechanic enhanced mobility and combat, delivering a faster-paced and streamlined experience.
- Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak
Developer: Capcom | Publisher: Capcom | Release Date: June 30, 2022 | Review: IGN's Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak review
This massive expansion introduced a new gothic-themed location, challenging monsters, and a revamped weapon system. The Citadel and its vampire/werewolf-inspired monsters created a memorable atmosphere, while the endgame content provided significant replayability.
- Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate
Developer: Capcom | Publisher: Capcom | Release Date: August 28, 2018 | Review: IGN's Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate review
A culmination of previous entries, Generations Ultimate boasts the series' largest monster roster (93) and extensive hunter customization. Hunter Styles significantly altered gameplay, offering diverse combat approaches.
- Monster Hunter World: Iceborne
Developer: Capcom | Publisher: Capcom | Release Date: September 6, 2019 | Review: IGN's Monster Hunter World: Iceborne review
This expansion feels like a standalone sequel, introducing a vast new campaign, numerous hunts, and the Guiding Lands, a combined zone from previous games. New monsters like Savage Deviljho, Velkhana, and Fatalis are considered among the best in the series.
- Monster Hunter: World
Developer: Capcom | Publisher: Capcom | Release Date: January 26, 2018 | Review: IGN's Monster Hunter: World review
Monster Hunter: World propelled the series to global recognition. Its expansive open zones, thrilling hunts, and emphasis on environmental detail created an immersive and breathtaking experience. The improved story and high-quality cutscenes further enhanced the game's appeal.
This ranking represents our opinion. Share your own preferences and anticipation for Monster Hunter Wilds in the comments.
