Monster Hunter: Souls-like or Devil May Cry? Weapon Choice Matters

For newcomers, Monster Hunter Rise's sudden popularity might seem surprising. However, Capcom has meticulously refined the Monster Hunter series for global success over many years, resulting in what appears to be one of the franchise's best-selling titles.

Boasting over a million concurrent Steam players, Monster Hunter Rise is everywhere. But if you feel lost, unsure where to begin, there's a simple secret to maximizing your enjoyment: find the weapon that best matches your playstyle.

Monster Hunter Rise offers an initially overwhelming array of weapons, each with a unique feel. From heavy hitters like the Great Sword to nimble Dual Blades and ranged Bowguns, the choice is vast.

While the Great Sword and Switch Axe are iconic, they demand precise timing and strategic swings, making them less beginner-friendly. Consider starting with the more agile Dual Blades, which unlock a world of quick attacks and dodges. The difference is significant: the Great Sword evokes the deliberate combat of *Dark Souls*, while the Dual Blades offer the action-oriented intensity of *Devil May Cry*.

Rise's combat is more streamlined than previous entries, aligning with modern action games. While sheathing is still required for healing, combat feels intuitive to players familiar with recent action RPGs. However, unlike those games which offer skill trees for customization, Monster Hunter Rise relies heavily on weapon choice to shape your experience.

Your initial weapon selection fundamentally defines your gameplay. If you crave speed and combos, the Dual Blades, with their fast attacks, quick dodges, and meter-based ultimate combos, will feel like Dante himself has entered the Monster Hunter universe.

Which Monster Hunter Playstyle Do You Prefer? ---------------------------------------------

The bigger the weapon, the better.Give me speed. More speed.Ranged attacks are the best.I like mixing-and-matching different weapon styles.

AnswerSee ResultsConversely, for balanced damage, defense, and mobility, the Sword and Shield is an excellent starting point. The Lance, though less popular due to its defensive focus, combines a large weapon with a shield, offering unique parry and counter-attack mechanics that reward practice.

Ranged options, like the Bowguns, offer power comparable to melee weapons. Remember to manage ammo and choose appropriate types for each monster.

While there are 14 weapons, each with unique properties, they broadly fall into three categories: heavy (high damage, low speed), light (rapid attacks), and technical. Weapons like the Gunlance (range), Charge Blade (shifting forms), Insect Glaive (buffs), and Hunting Horn (buffs) blur these lines.

Don't be overwhelmed by the choices. Experiment with every weapon in the tutorial before committing, as you'll undoubtedly find a style that suits you, whether it's the Devil May Cry approach or the Dark Souls strategy.