SciVersum

Capcom Confirms Monster Hunter Wilds Development for Switch 2

The beloved action RPG is set to expand with new features and a major expansion in the coming years

Category: Arts & Culture

In a much-anticipated announcement, Capcom has confirmed that *Monster Hunter Wilds* is officially in development for the Nintendo Switch 2. This news, shared via a tweet from the company, follows a series of rumors and speculation within the gaming community, particularly after hints surfaced from datamines earlier this year. The excitement is amplified by the upcoming expansion, *Ascendance*, which promises to take the gameplay experience to new heights.

What are the key details of the announcement?

Capcom revealed the development of the Switch 2 version of *Monster Hunter Wilds* during the Summer Game Fest, coinciding with the announcement of the *Ascendance* expansion. The company stated, "Monster Hunter Wilds is currently in development for Nintendo Switch 2! We'll have more info to share, including the release date, in the future." This confirmation is particularly notable as it marks the first official acknowledgment of a port for the Switch 2, following earlier speculation about the game's potential for the platform.

What is *Monster Hunter Wilds* about?

*Monster Hunter Wilds* first launched on February 28, 2025, for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam. The game transports players to the Forbidden Lands, a vibrant world filled with dynamic ecosystems and formidable monsters. As part of a special Research Commission, players will explore this living world, encountering diverse wildlife and adapting to its ever-changing climate. The game introduces a new mount called the Seikret, which allows players to traverse difficult terrains and engage in combat more fluidly.

The gameplay emphasizes co-op action, allowing up to four players to join forces across platforms in a cross-play multiplayer format. This feature enhances the social aspect of the game, enabling friends to tackle challenges together or receive assistance from notable story characters as Support Hunter NPCs.

What new features can players expect?

The Switch 2 version of *Monster Hunter Wilds* is expected to maintain the series' renowned action-packed gameplay, with new moves, special abilities, and equipment enhancing the hunting experience. Players can look forward to tracking down monsters in an immersive environment where cutscenes flow seamlessly into gameplay. The game also features a variety of new creatures, each with unique behaviors and combat styles, enriching the hunting experience.

Adding to the excitement, the *Ascendance* expansion is set to launch in 2027, introducing new high-altitude locales and gameplay mechanics that evolve the existing framework. This expansion will also see the return of Elder Dragons and Master Rank content, raising the stakes for players as they venture into the sky islands.

How has the original game been received?

Upon its initial release, *Monster Hunter Wilds* was met with enthusiasm from fans of the series, though it faced criticism for performance issues, particularly on PC. A patch was required nearly a year later to address problems related to the game's handling of downloadable content. Nevertheless, the game's engaging story and expansive world have captured the interest of many players, making the announcement of a Switch 2 version a welcomed development.

What does this mean for Capcom's future?

Capcom's commitment to the Nintendo Switch 2 with *Monster Hunter Wilds* aligns with the company's strategy to support the platform, as seen with other titles like *Street Fighter 6* and the upcoming *Resident Evil* ports. The announcement reflects Capcom's recognition of the Monster Hunter series' historical popularity on Nintendo systems, and fans are eager to see how the game will leverage the Switch 2's capabilities.

As the gaming community awaits more information on both the Switch 2 version and the *Ascendance* expansion, the excitement surrounding *Monster Hunter Wilds* continues to grow. The combination of a beloved franchise, innovative gameplay features, and the promise of expansive new content sets the stage for a highly anticipated release.

With the gaming industry rapidly advancing, Capcom's strategic decisions in developing for the Switch 2 could influence future releases and the direction of the Monster Hunter franchise. As the company prepares to share more details, including a release date, fans are left to ponder the potential of this new adventure in the Forbidden Lands.

For those eager to explore the latest in the Monster Hunter universe, keep an eye out for updates from Capcom in the coming months!