Monster Hunter Series

Why Monster Hunter franchise is so popular?

The first entry in the Monster Hunter franchise was released on the PlayStation 2 in 2004 to a rather mediocre reception. Nonetheless, the developers saw the potential in the concept of slaying giant beasts and continued with subsequent installments. For a long time, the series was rather obscure in the west until the release of the fourth entry.

Since 2004, Monster Hunter games got over a dozen releases on various platforms. However, the franchise goes far beyond the games, as it also includes manga, anime, and a full-length feature film. There is no denying that it has become a worldwide phenomenon, so it's no surprise that players are eagerly awaiting the next installment of Capcom’s best-selling JRPG franchise.

However, it became most popular in the West in 2018, when the developers targeted PCs and home consoles instead of handhelds. Interestingly, unlike the previous Monster Hunter games, World was released simultaneously in Japan and the Western market. It was an instant hit, capturing the hearts of Western gamers. A sea of new players was attracted by the refreshed formula and lively open world teeming with various creatures.

The sixth entry in the main series repeated the success of World, but not on such a large scale. It was also praised by critics and players alike for its improvements to the gameplay mechanics. It eventually became the second best-selling game in the MH franchise.

What is the highest rated game from the Monster Hunter series?

Although the series has been on the market for nearly two decades, it has only recently gained popularity outside of Japan. The most recent mainline entries have definitely resonated better with Western audiences than previous ones. In addition, both were highly regarded and praised for numerous improvements for newcomers. On top of that, the released expansions are undoubtedly a testament to their success.

Top ranked MH games according to Metacritic:

1. Monster Hunter World – 88
2. Monster Hunter: World – Iceborne – 87
3. Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak – 86
4. Monster Hunter Rise – 86
5. Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin – 82

How many Monster Hunter games are released on PC?

Despite the fact that the series contains over a dozen installments, not all of them are available on PC. As of today, the list of Monster Hunter games on PC includes two mainline entries, two DLCs, and one spin-off. The fifth entry, World, was released in 2018 and received a major story-driven expansion, Iceborne, in 2022. The most recent entry, Rise, launched on PC in 2022, and the expansion Sunbreak was released later that year. Wings of Ruin, a turn-based spin-off focused on training beasts, hit the market in 2021.

MH: World or MH: Rise? Which Monster Hunter game should I play first?

If you're wondering which of the recent MH games are better for beginners, you've come to the right place. It's recommended to start your adventure with Rise. It's well-balanced and has many features for newcomers to the MH franchise, including extensive tutorials. Moreover, the game offers new ways to navigate the world by adding mounts. Players also have two companions for battle support instead of one.

How many copies of Monster Hunter games were sold?

There is no doubt that the most recent entries in the Monster Hunter series have been very successful in terms of sales. According to the data from 2022, it has sold 88 million units across all titles. However, the fifth installment, World, is the most popular one. In fact, it’s the best-selling JRPG of all time.

Monster Hunter World   18.5 Mln Units

Monster Hunter Rise 11.2 Mln Units

Monster Hunter World: Iceborne 9.7 Mln Units

Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak  5.0 Mln Units