Rating 7.5 / 10
When Monster Hunter Rise launched on the Nintendo Switch in 2021 (and later PC), it had a tall order: follow up the global success of Monster Hunter: World while also being portable-friendly. What Capcom delivered was a streamlined, stylish, and faster-paced take on the series that gave veterans something new and made the franchise more approachable than ever.
Visuals and Atmosphere
While not as graphically advanced as World, Rise makes smart use of the RE Engine to deliver vibrant environments, sharp monster designs, and fluid animations. The setting of Kamura Village is steeped in Japanese-inspired architecture and folklore, giving the game its own cultural flavor.
The maps, though smaller than World’s sprawling zones, are seamless—no loading screens—and each locale is filled with verticality, perfect for the new traversal system.
Gameplay and Combat
At its core, Rise is still the same addictive loop:
- Hunt a monster.
- Craft better gear.
- Take on stronger monsters.
But Rise introduces two major features that set it apart:
- Wirebug Mobility – A grappling-hook-like system that allows hunters to zip through the air, scale cliffs, and even recover quickly after being knocked down. It makes combat faster, flashier, and more dynamic.
- Palamutes – Your canine companions not only fight alongside you but also act as mounts, letting you sprint across maps without worrying about stamina. It drastically reduces downtime between hunts.
The result is a game that feels smoother and more accessible, without losing the depth Monster Hunter is known for.
Monsters and Variety
The roster in the base game includes both series classics (Rathalos, Diablos, Tigrex) and exciting newcomers like Magnamalo, the flagship monster whose explosive attacks keep players on their toes.
While some fans wished for a larger launch roster compared to World, the unique designs and the way monsters interact with the environment—thanks to Wirebug mechanics and Wyvern Riding—make every hunt feel lively.
Progression and Accessibility
Capcom clearly designed Rise with approachability in mind. Tutorials are better explained, early hunts are less punishing, and multiplayer is easier to set up. The grind is still there (this is Monster Hunter, after all), but the pace feels friendlier, especially for newcomers.
That said, veterans may find the base game’s endgame content a bit thin compared to World. The true depth of long-term play really expands later with Sunbreak, the massive DLC.
Performance
On Switch, Rise runs at a stable 30 FPS with occasional dips during chaotic hunts, but the art direction helps hide the hardware limitations. The PC version, released later, brings higher frame rates, sharper visuals, and customizable settings, making it the definitive version if you value performance.
Verdict
Monster Hunter Rise base game is a fast, stylish, and accessible entry in the franchise that succeeds in making the series more inviting while still satisfying hardcore hunters. While it doesn’t have the sheer scope of World or the deep endgame that veterans crave, it sets a strong foundation for future expansions.
Pros:
- Wirebug and Palamute systems make gameplay smooth and exciting
- Gorgeous Japanese-inspired setting
- Great balance between accessibility and depth
- Fun monster roster with strong newcomers
Cons:
- Smaller scale than World
- Endgame content feels light in the base game
- Switch version capped at 30 FPS