The Importance of Weapon Choice in Monster Hunter Wilds
In the vast and dynamic world of Monster Hunter Wilds, the first significant decision you make is choosing your weapon. However, no single weapon can cater to every playstyle or every encounter. The game’s design encourages players to explore and experiment with different weapons, each offering a unique set of mechanics and strategies. This flexibility is one of the series’ most appealing aspects, and Monster Hunter Wilds takes it a step further by allowing players to switch weapons on the fly while out in the field. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or a newcomer, understanding how to change and switch your weapons is crucial for adapting to the diverse challenges you’ll face.
Unlocking the Ability to Change Weapons
You can change your weapon as soon as you complete Chapter 1-1: Desert Trotters and unlock the Base Camp. Initially, you can only change weapons with Gemma at the Smithy. However, after you’ve interacted with your Guildmates and attended the meeting at the Command tent, your personal Tent will become available. This new location provides an additional option for changing your equipment, making it more convenient to switch weapons and armor as needed. To change your weapons, navigate to the Smithy or your Tent, select "Change Equipment" on the Equipment Menu, and choose your desired primary and secondary weapons from the available options. This process also allows you to adjust your armor and talisman, ensuring you are fully prepared for your next hunt.
The Seikret and Weapon Switching
After you slay the Quematrice during Chapter 1-2: Village of Whispering Winds, Y’sai gifts you a Seikret, a loyal and versatile mount. Gemma then crafts a new saddle for your Seikret, complete with a holster for an additional weapon. This upgrade is a game-changer, as it allows you to switch between your primary and secondary weapons while in the field. To switch to your secondary weapon, simply tap right on the D-pad. If you are already riding your Seikret, the weapon switch is seamless, thanks to the holster on your saddle. However, if you are on foot, you must first whistle for your Seikret, and then switch weapons as you mount it. While this process might seem a bit cumbersome, it adds a layer of strategy and mobility to your hunts, making it easier to adapt to different situations on the fly.
The Mechanics of Weapon Switching
The weapon-switching animation in Monster Hunter Wilds is incredibly fast, often happening so quickly that you might not even notice it. This speed is designed to keep the action flowing and to allow you to react swiftly to changing battle conditions. Whether you are facing a powerful boss or navigating through a treacherous environment, the ability to switch weapons can be a lifesaver. For example, if you are using a heavy-hitting weapon like the Great Sword but need to quickly switch to a more agile weapon like the Dual Blades to dodge an attack, the seamless transition ensures you stay in the action without losing momentum. This dynamic feature enhances the game’s depth and encourages players to think strategically about their weapon choices and usage.
Experimenting with Different Weapon Combinations
With 14 different weapons to choose from, Monster Hunter Wilds offers a wide range of playstyles and strategies. Each weapon has its own strengths and weaknesses, making it essential to experiment with different combinations to find what works best for you. For instance, you might prefer the Great Sword for its raw power and the ability to deliver devastating blows, but find that the Long Sword’s mobility and combo potential are more suited to your playstyle. By equipping both as your primary and secondary weapons, you can leverage the strengths of each in different phases of a hunt. This flexibility not only makes the game more enjoyable but also more challenging, as you must master the nuances of multiple weapons to excel.
Enhancing Your Hunting Experience
Now that you know how to change and switch weapons in Monster Hunter Wilds, you can start exploring the game’s rich and varied combat mechanics. The ability to switch weapons on the fly adds a new dimension to your hunting strategies, allowing you to adapt to the unique challenges of each monster and environment. Whether you are a fan of close-quarters combat, ranged attacks, or a mix of both, the game’s weapon system ensures that there is always something new to discover and master. So, don’t be afraid to try out different weapons and combinations—your next great hunt might just be one weapon switch away.
