Capcom’s Monster Hunter Wilds showcase has unveiled an extensive look at the upcoming title through a new promotional video, offering fans a detailed glimpse of the game’s world, creatures, and upcoming open beta.

The showcase introduced players to “Oilwell Basin,” a striking new environment where natural oil deposits create a unique and hazardous landscape. This distinctive region experiences a dramatic weather phenomenon known as “Firespring,” during which fierce flames ignite the oil slicks that permeate the area. Nestled within this volatile terrain is Azuz, the Everforge, a crafting village constructed around a massive fire kiln. The people of Azuz possess ancestral expertise in processing bones and ores, along with sophisticated oil refining techniques, suggesting a rich cultural backdrop to the game’s setting.

The presentation spotlighted several new additions to the Monster Hunter bestiary. Among them stands the mysterious “Black Flame,” a creature that legends have passed down through generations, though its true nature remains enigmatic. The showcase also revealed the Ajarakan, a Fanged Beast species distinguished by its protective shell covering.

This creature demonstrates unique behavioral patterns, becoming particularly active during the Firespring phenomena and displaying the remarkable ability to heat its shell to a glowing red state. Additionally, the Rompopolo, a Brute Wyvern, has adapted to life in the oil-rich environment by developing specialized abilities, including the capacity to disperse toxic gas through its tongue and create explosive reactions by injecting gas into the ground with its tail.

Open Beta

Capcom has announced comprehensive beta test plans for Monster Hunter Wilds, with an Open Beta Test scheduled to run from November 1st to November 4th, 2024. PlayStation Plus subscribers will receive an exclusive early access period from October 29th to October 31st. The beta will offer three main content areas: Character Creation, which features expanded customization options including various body types that won’t affect gameplay; a Story Trial that introduces players to the game’s narrative and basic mechanics through a seamless tutorial culminating in a Chatacabra hunt; and the Doshaguma Hunt quest, challenging players to defeat an Alpha Doshaguma.

The beta will support cross-platform multiplayer features, allowing players to team up across different gaming systems. For those who prefer solo play or when unable to find other players, the game will provide up to three NPC support hunters to assist during hunts. Players can fine-tune their multiplayer experience through detailed settings available at the quest counter with handler Alma, enabling them to customize their hunting party composition according to their preferences.

As an incentive for participating in the beta, players will receive exclusive rewards, including a decorative “Palico Teddy” pendant and a special item pack, which can be claimed in the full game following its release. While character creation data will transfer to the final version, other progress made during the beta period will not carry over.

Monster Hunter Wilds is set for a worldwide release on February 28th, 2025, and will be available across PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam. The beta test will require approximately 29 GB of free space across all platforms, with pre-download options available before each test period begins.