Capcom is bringing the thrill of monster hunting to your pocket with Monster Hunter Now, a new mobile game developed in partnership with Niantic, the creators of Pokémon Go.
Get ready to sharpen your blades and gather your hunting party because the world of Monster Hunter is about to invade your reality. Capcom, the publisher behind the acclaimed action RPG series, has announced Monster Hunter Now, a new mobile game that promises to deliver a “full-featured” Monster Hunter experience on iOS and Android devices. Developed in partnership with Niantic, the company known for its location-based AR games like Pokémon Go and Ingress, Monster Hunter Now aims to bring the thrill of hunting giant beasts to the palm of your hand.
While a release date hasn’t been set in stone, eager fans can pre-register for the game starting on April 25th, 2023, with a closed beta test planned for later this spring. But what exactly can we expect from this ambitious mobile adaptation? Let’s dive into everything we know so far about Monster Hunter Now.
What is Monster Hunter Now?
Monster Hunter Now takes the core gameplay of the Monster Hunter series – tracking, hunting, and carving massive monsters – and blends it with Niantic’s expertise in augmented reality and location-based gaming. Imagine encountering a Rathalos perched atop your local library or a Diablos burrowing beneath your neighborhood park. This is the kind of immersive experience that Monster Hunter Now aims to deliver.
From the initial trailers and gameplay footage, it’s clear that Capcom and Niantic are striving to create a faithful mobile adaptation that captures the essence of the console and PC games. Players will be able to:
- Explore the real world: Just like in Pokémon Go, players will need to physically move around their environment to discover monsters, gather resources, and complete quests.
- Engage in thrilling hunts: Combat appears to be action-oriented, with players tapping and swiping on their screens to unleash attacks, dodge, and use items. Familiar weapon types like the Great Sword and Bow will be available.
- Craft and upgrade equipment: Carving materials from slain monsters to forge powerful new weapons and armor is a core element of the Monster Hunter experience, and it will be present in Monster Hunter Now.
- Team up with other players: Multiplayer hunts are a cornerstone of the series, and Monster Hunter Now will allow players to join forces with friends and fellow hunters to take down challenging monsters.
A True Monster Hunter Experience on Mobile?
Capcom is emphasizing that Monster Hunter Now is not a simplified spin-off but a “full-featured” Monster Hunter game designed specifically for mobile devices. This means we can expect a significant level of depth and complexity, including:
- A variety of monsters: While the initial roster is still under wraps, Capcom has confirmed the appearance of iconic monsters like Rathalos, Diablos, Great Jagras, and Pukei-Pukei. More monsters are expected to be added post-launch.
- Deep combat system: The combat system, while adapted for touch controls, seems to retain the strategic depth of the main series. Players will need to learn monster attack patterns, utilize different weapon types effectively, and manage their stamina and items.
- Meaningful progression: Crafting, upgrading gear, and improving your hunter’s skills will be crucial for tackling tougher challenges.
My Thoughts and Expectations
As a long-time Monster Hunter fan, I’m cautiously optimistic about Monster Hunter Now. The prospect of encountering and battling these incredible creatures in my own neighborhood is incredibly exciting. However, I do have some concerns.
Firstly, simplifying the combat system for touch controls is a delicate balancing act. While accessibility is important for a mobile game, I hope it doesn’t come at the cost of the strategic depth that defines Monster Hunter.
Secondly, monetization is a key factor. Niantic’s games are known for their in-app purchases, and it remains to be seen how this will be implemented in Monster Hunter Now. I hope Capcom and Niantic strike a balance that doesn’t feel predatory or compromise the core gameplay experience.
Despite these concerns, I’m eager to see how Monster Hunter Now evolves. The potential is certainly there to deliver a truly unique and engaging mobile experience. I’m particularly interested in seeing how they integrate social elements and encourage real-world interaction between players.
What Others Are Saying
The initial reaction to Monster Hunter Now has been mixed. On Reddit and other online forums, some fans are expressing excitement about the prospect of a mobile Monster Hunter game, while others are skeptical about Niantic’s involvement and the potential for microtransactions.
Many are drawing comparisons to Pokémon Go, both positive and negative. Some praise Niantic’s experience in creating successful location-based games, while others worry that Monster Hunter Now might suffer from similar issues like repetitive gameplay and a focus on grinding.
Key Takeaways
- Monster Hunter Now is an upcoming mobile game developed by Capcom and Niantic.
- It aims to deliver a “full-featured” Monster Hunter experience on iOS and Android devices.
- The game combines location-based gameplay with augmented reality, allowing players to encounter and hunt monsters in the real world.
- Pre-registration starts on April 25th, 2023, with a closed beta test planned for later this spring.
- Success will depend on balancing accessibility with depth, and implementing a fair monetization system.
I’ll be keeping a close eye on Monster Hunter Now’s development and will share more information as it becomes available. In the meantime, let me know what you think! Are you excited about this new mobile adventure? What are your hopes and concerns? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
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