The History of Monster Hunter Weapons

Monster Hunter is renowned for its diverse array of weapon types and engaging gameplay, but did you know that even more weapons have been left out of the newer games? Dive into the fascinating history of Monster Hunter weapons and discover more about this iconic series.

← Return to Monster Hunter Wilds' main article

History of Weapon Types in Monster Hunter

Monster Hunter has been captivating players for over two decades since its debut in 2004. One of its hallmarks is the variety of weapon types available, each with unique strengths, weaknesses, movesets, and mechanics. Monster Hunter Wilds will feature fourteen different weapon types, each offering a distinct playstyle for hunters to master.

The evolution of these weapons from their initial iterations to the latest versions is remarkable. Moreover, there are weapons from older games that never made it to the West. Let's explore the rich history of Monster Hunter, focusing on the evolution of its weapons.

First Generation

The first generation of Monster Hunter introduced several iconic weapons that have evolved significantly over time.

Great Sword

The Great Sword, a staple since the series' inception in 2004, is known for its high damage output but slow movement. Initially designed for hit-and-run tactics, it gained the Charged Slash in Monster Hunter 2, a move that has become a hallmark of the weapon. Subsequent games enhanced its charging mechanics and added fluid combos, such as the shoulder tackle in Monster Hunter World, making it a weapon with a low skill floor but a high skill ceiling.

Sword and Shield

The Sword and Shield is celebrated for its versatility, offering quick combos, mobility, and the ability to block. Initially seen as a beginner's weapon, it has evolved with added mechanics like item usage without sheathing in Monster Hunter 2, and new moves like the Perfect Rush combo in Monster Hunter World. Despite its simplicity, it's a weapon with hidden depth.

Hammer

The Hammer, focused on blunt damage, excels at breaking monster parts and causing knockouts. Its playstyle, similar to the Great Sword, emphasizes mobility and charging. Significant changes in Monster Hunter World and Rise introduced new attacks like Big Bang and Spinning Bludgeon, along with dual modes for varied combat strategies.

Lance

The Lance is the epitome of defensive play, offering long-range attacks and a large shield for blocking. Its playstyle revolves around poking from a safe distance and using counter mechanics. While often seen as less flashy, its unique design rewards players for standing their ground.

Light Bowgun

The Light Bowgun, a ranged weapon, offers mobility and quick reloads but at the cost of firepower. Customizable with various attachments, it gained the Rapid Fire mechanic and the Critical Distance feature in Monster Hunter 4, enhancing its strategic depth. Monster Hunter World added the Wyvernblast, further enriching its gameplay.

Heavy Bowgun

The Heavy Bowgun, known for its high damage and special ammunition, sacrifices mobility for firepower. Introduced in the first generation, it gained the Siege Mode in Monster Hunter 3 and special ammo types like Wyvernheart and Wyvernsnipe in Monster Hunter World, making it a formidable choice for long-range combat.

Dual Blades

The Dual Blades, introduced in the Western release of the first game, focus on speed and inflicting status ailments. The Demon Mode, introduced early on, was enhanced with the Demon Gauge and Archdemon Mode in later games, allowing for more fluid and powerful combos.

Second Generation

The second generation introduced new weapons that built upon the originals with unique mechanics.

Long Sword

The Long Sword, known for its fluid combos and high damage, was introduced in Monster Hunter 2. Its Spirit Gauge mechanic, which fills with successful attacks, allows for powerful Spirit Combos. Subsequent games added new levels and finishers, like the Spirit Thrust Helm Breaker and Foresight Slash, making it a dynamic weapon focused on counters and combos.

Hunting Horn

The Hunting Horn, a support weapon, uses the Recital mechanic to play songs that provide various buffs. While similar to the Hammer in dealing impact damage, it focuses on support. Monster Hunter World introduced song queuing and Echo Notes, while Monster Hunter Rise simplified its mechanics, making it more accessible but less complex.

Gunlance

The Gunlance, a hybrid of the Lance and Bowgun, offers explosive attacks with unlimited ammunition. Its aggressive playstyle was enhanced with quick reloads and new attacks like Full Burst and Wyrmstake Shot in later games. The Heat Gauge added in Monster Hunter X introduced a new layer of strategy to its use.

Bow

The Bow, the most agile ranged weapon, focuses on close-to-mid-range combat with chargeable attacks and various Coatings. Its mobility and combo-heavy playstyle were enhanced in Monster Hunter World, with universal movesets and the introduction of Close-Range Coating. Monster Hunter Rise reintroduced Shot Types tied to charge levels, adding depth to its gameplay.

Third and Fourth Generation

The third and fourth generations introduced innovative weapons with unique mechanics.

Switch Axe

The Switch Axe, introduced in Monster Hunter 3, features two modes: Axe Mode for mobility and Sword Mode for damage. Its morphing capabilities were enhanced in later games, with the Amped mechanic in Monster Hunter World and further improvements in Monster Hunter Rise, encouraging fluid transitions between modes.

Insect Glaive

The Insect Glaive, introduced in Monster Hunter 4, excels in aerial combat and uses a Kinsect to collect essences for buffs. Its core gameplay revolves around quickly gathering the three essences to enter its strongest state. Monster Hunter Rise simplified its upgrade system and introduced new Kinsect types, making it more accessible.

Charge Blade

The Charge Blade, also introduced in Monster Hunter 4, is known for its versatility and complex mechanics. It features Sword Mode for charging phials and Axe Mode for unleashing them with Amped Elemental Discharge. Mastering its Guard Points and transitions between modes is key to its high skill ceiling and rewarding gameplay.

Will There Be More?

While Monster Hunter Wilds will feature the fourteen weapons mentioned, the series has a history of introducing new weapons or reintroducing older ones. Given the longevity and popularity of Monster Hunter, future games may bring even more innovative weapons to enhance the gameplay experience.

You may also like...