Capcom’s latest installment in the beloved Monster Hunter franchise, Monster Hunter Wilds, is poised for its second open beta test, ramping up excitement among fans. Scheduled to run for two separate weekends in February, this testing phase provides a substantial opportunity for both players and developers. Series producer Ryozo Tsujimoto broke the news through a whimsical video statement, highlighting what players can expect. With an arsenal of impressive features carried over from the initial beta, including a meticulously crafted character creator and glimpses into the game’s storyline, the anticipation is palpable.
While players will once again engage in the pivotal quest to hunt down the adorable Doshaguma, they will also encounter the returning monster, Gypceros. This familiar foe brings historical context and nostalgia for long-time series enthusiasts, enriching the gameplay experience. The introduction of Gypceros speaks volumes about Capcom’s commitment to blending new and old elements, thereby deepening the overall narrative and emotional engagement in the game. This reuse of monsters keeps the experience fresh while also catering to the loyalty of veteran players.
The beta kicks off on February 6 at 7 PM PT and will run until February 9, followed by a second phase from February 13 to February 16. Excitingly, it will be available on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S, ensuring a broad audience can participate. What sets this beta apart is the fact that players won’t require a PS Plus or Game Pass subscription, removing barriers to entry. This approach reflects Capcom’s desire to engage as many players as possible, fostering a larger community and gathering comprehensive feedback.
Despite the eagerness surrounding these tests, Tsujimoto clarified that players should temper their expectations regarding potential fixes from prior feedback. The development team is still busy refining aspects of the game, and improvements related to performance and user experience won’t be incorporated before the second beta. Thus, this round functions more as an enjoyable preview, allowing players to taste the upcoming title while enabling Capcom to gather essential operational data. While this might be a disappointment to some, it is a pragmatic choice aimed at prioritizing an efficient development process.
For fans worried about losing their carefully sculpted avatars post-beta, there’s good news: all custom characters will carry over into the final release of Monster Hunter Wilds on February 28. However, players are advised not to invest excessive time grinding for resources, as progress made will not transfer over. This stipulation encourages players to enjoy the beta experience in its intended capacity — as a trial run rather than a marathon.
As 2025 unfolds, Monster Hunter Wilds emerges as a standout title among a wealth of releases this February. With so many games battling for attention, it will be interesting to see how Capcom’s efforts pay off in shaping the future of the franchise and its dedicated player pool.
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