The Monster Hunter Wilds beta is back, and it’s brought a new challenger to the hunt: Arkveld. This fearsome beast is the game's flagship monster, promising a significant role in players' journeys through the Wilds. The beta lets hunters test their mettle against the Chained Arkveld in a thrilling 20-minute hunt with a five-faint limit.
Arkveld is a massive winged creature wielding electrifying chains from each arm. Its attacks are powerful, fast, and surprisingly versatile. The beast uses its chains for mobility, launching long-range attacks and generally wreaking havoc. One particularly brutal move involves grabbing hunters, roaring, and then slamming them to the ground. Even experienced hunters are finding themselves frequently carted by its devastating power. This impressive display showcases the game's new technology and Arkveld's dynamic combat style.
The monster's impact extends beyond just combat. One player on the r/MHWilds subreddit even captured a humorous video of Arkveld interrupting a hunter's mid-hunt meal, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the Wilds.
Arkveld’s impressive design and challenging gameplay have captivated the Monster Hunter community. While the difficulty might intimidate some, many players are embracing the challenge. The fact that the flagship monster is both terrifying and iconic is a positive sign. The "Chained" designation also fuels speculation about a potentially even more formidable "Unchained" variant in the full game.
The Monster Hunter Wilds Open Beta Test 2 runs from February 6th to 9th, and again from February 13th to 16th. Hunters can tackle both Arkveld and the returning Gypceros, along with added features like a Training Area and Private Lobbies.
Monster Hunter Wilds launches February 28th, 2025, for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. For more information, check out IGN First coverage, including our final preview. You can also find our guide to the beta, covering multiplayer, weapon types, and confirmed monsters.
