Monster Hunter is renowned for its diverse range of weapon types and engaging gameplay, but did you know that some weapons from earlier games have not been included in the newer releases? Let's delve into the rich history of the weapons in Monster Hunter, focusing on the evolution and unique characteristics of each type.
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History of Weapon Types in Monster Hunter
Monster Hunter has been captivating players for over two decades, since the first game's release in 2004. One of its hallmarks is the variety of weapon types available, each with distinct strengths, weaknesses, movesets, and mechanics that players must master. Monster Hunter Wilds will feature fourteen different weapon types. Let's explore the evolution of these weapons, starting with the first generation.
First Generation
The first generation of Monster Hunter introduced several iconic weapons that have evolved over time, each with unique characteristics and gameplay mechanics.
Great Sword
The Great Sword, a powerhouse in the franchise since 2004, is known for its high single-hit damage. Its slow movement and attack speed are offset by its ability to be used as a shield, though this consumes stamina and sharpness. Initially designed around hit-and-run tactics, the Great Sword gained its iconic Charged Slash in Monster Hunter 2, allowing hunters to charge up to three levels for devastating attacks. Subsequent games added more finishers and improved combo flow, with Monster Hunter World introducing a shoulder tackle for quicker access to charged attacks. Mastering the Great Sword involves maximizing damage through the True Charged Slash in brief openings.
Sword and Shield
The Sword and Shield is known for its versatility, offering quick combos, mobility, and the ability to block. Initially considered a beginner's weapon, it evolved with added mechanics like using items without sheathing in Monster Hunter 2. Later generations enhanced its moveset with shield bash combos, backstep and jumping attacks, and the Perfect Rush combo in Monster Hunter World and Rise. Despite its short range and lower damage, the Sword and Shield is a jack-of-all-trades, offering an infinite combo, quick attacks, and evasive maneuvers.
Hammer
The Hammer focuses on blunt damage, ideal for breaking monster parts and causing knockouts. Its playstyle resembles the Great Sword's hit-and-run approach but with higher mobility and a unique charge mechanic that allows movement while charging. The Hammer's moveset remained mostly unchanged until Monster Hunter World and Rise, which introduced the Big Bang and Spinning Bludgeon attacks, along with Strength and Courage modes that alter charge attacks and effects. Mastering the Hammer involves targeting the monster's head to maximize knockouts and damage.
Lance
The Lance is the epitome of defensive play, using its long reach and large shield to block attacks. Its playstyle focuses on poking from a distance while maintaining a guard, with limited but powerful attacks. The Lance gained a Counter mechanic to reinforce its defensive identity, and its unique design rewards hunters for standing their ground. Despite its slow movement, the Lance offers significant damage output, making it a formidable choice for players who prefer a defensive approach.
Light Bowgun
The Light Bowgun, introduced in the first generation, offers mobility and faster reload speeds, making it easier to handle than its heavier counterpart. While its ammunition choices are limited, it can be customized with attachments like long barrels and scopes. The introduction of Critical Distance in Monster Hunter 4 added depth to ranged gameplay, and Monster Hunter World's Wyvernblast mechanic enhanced its offensive capabilities. The Light Bowgun's design has evolved to offer robust mechanics and specialty without sacrificing ease of use.
Heavy Bowgun
The Heavy Bowgun, also from the first generation, excels in high damage and special ammunition use. Its slow movement is offset by its flexibility in ammunition types and customization options, including a shield for protection. The Siege Mode introduced in Monster Hunter 3 allowed for continuous shelling without reloading, while Monster Hunter World added the Wyvernheart and Wyvernsnipe special ammo types. Hunters using the Heavy Bowgun must plan and craft ammunition during hunts, emphasizing preparation and firepower.
Dual Blades
The Dual Blades, introduced in the Western release of Monster Hunter, focus on speed and multi-hitting attacks, ideal for inflicting status ailments and elemental damage. The weapon's Demon Mode increases damage and offers offensive maneuvers at the cost of stamina. The Demon Gauge introduced in Monster Hunter Portable 3rd allowed access to Archdemon Mode, enhancing the weapon's potential without stamina drain. The Dual Blades' Demon Dash and Adept Hunter Style in Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate further enhanced its offensive capabilities.
Second Generation
The second generation introduced weapons that, while similar to their first-generation counterparts, offered unique movesets and mechanics.
Long Sword
The Long Sword, introduced in Monster Hunter 2, is known for its fluid combos and high damage. Its Spirit Gauge mechanic, filled by landing attacks, grants access to the Spirit Combo and its finishers. Monster Hunter 3 added levels to the Spirit Gauge, culminating in the Spirit Roundslash finisher. Monster Hunter World introduced the Foresight Slash for parrying and the Spirit Thrust Helm Breaker, while Iceborne added the Iai Stance for quicker Spirit Gauge maxing and additional parry options. The Long Sword's design has evolved into a more counter-based weapon, enhancing its dynamic playstyle.
Hunting Horn
The Hunting Horn, introduced in Monster Hunter 2, is the series' support weapon, offering beneficial effects through its Recital mechanic. Its impact damage is weaker than the Hammer's, but its ability to provide buffs is invaluable. Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate allowed notes to be played while attacking, enhancing the weapon's fluidity. Monster Hunter World introduced queued songs and Echo Notes, while Monster Hunter Rise overhauled the weapon for simplicity, reducing the song list and automating buffs. This change made the Hunting Horn more accessible but less complex.
Gunlance
The Gunlance, introduced in the second generation, combines the Lance's defensive capabilities with explosive rounds. Its Shelling Abilities vary with the weapon, affecting its explosive attacks. Monster Hunter 3 introduced a quick reload mechanic and the Full Burst attack, while Monster Hunter X added the Heat Gauge for balancing damage and overheating. Monster Hunter World introduced the Wyrmstake Shot finisher, enhancing the Gunlance's aggressive playstyle. The Gunlance's unique mechanics require balancing between shelling and physical attacks.
Bow
The Bow, introduced in Monster Hunter 2, is the most agile ranged weapon, focusing on close-to-mid-range combat and mobility. Its chargeable attacks and Coatings enhance damage and inflict status effects. The Bow's combos were expanded in subsequent games, with Monster Hunter World introducing a universal moveset and infinite Close-Range Coating. Monster Hunter Rise reintroduced Shot Types tied to charge levels, enhancing the weapon's aggressive and combo-heavy playstyle.
Third and Fourth Generation
The third and fourth generations introduced morphable weapons with unique mechanics.
Switch Axe
The Switch Axe, introduced in Monster Hunter 3, features two modes: Axe Mode for mobility and range, and Sword Mode for higher damage and Elemental Discharge. Initially requiring a quest to unlock, the Switch Axe's morphing capabilities improved with each iteration. Monster Hunter World introduced the Amped mechanic, empowering Sword Mode, while Monster Hunter Rise extended this to both forms, encouraging form-swapping during combat. The Switch Axe's unique gameplay adds depth to the series.
Insect Glaive
The Insect Glaive, introduced in Monster Hunter 4, excels in aerial combat and is paired with a Kinsect for collecting essences that grant buffs. Collecting red, white, and orange essences enhances attack, mobility, and defense, respectively. While its core gameplay remained consistent, Monster Hunter World: Iceborne added the Descending Thrust finisher, and Monster Hunter Rise simplified the Kinsect upgrade system. The Insect Glaive's unique mechanics and aerial prowess make it a standout weapon.
Charge Blade
The Charge Blade, introduced in Monster Hunter 4, is a versatile weapon with Sword Mode for charging phials and Axe Mode for unleashing them through Amped Elemental Discharge. Its Guard Points allow for defensive play while charging phials, and mastering its transitions and monster behavior is key to its effectiveness. The Charge Blade's balanced offense and mechanical depth make it a rewarding weapon to master.
Will There Be More?
While Monster Hunter Wilds will feature fourteen weapons, the series has a history of introducing new weapons and reintroducing older ones. As the franchise continues to evolve, we can expect even more innovative weapons that add depth to its gameplay. Whether new or familiar, these additions will keep the series fresh and engaging for players.
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