The History of Monster Hunter Weapons

Monster Hunter, a franchise renowned for its diverse weapon types and engaging gameplay, has a rich history that spans over two decades since its initial release in 2004. With the upcoming Monster Hunter Wilds featuring fourteen distinct weapon types, each with unique strengths, weaknesses, movesets, and mechanics, it's clear that the series continues to evolve. However, many fans might not be aware that there are even more weapons from older games that have yet to be released in the West. Let's delve into the fascinating history of Monster Hunter weapons, focusing on the evolution of each type.

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History of Weapon Types in Monster Hunter

First Generation

Great Sword

The Great Sword, an iconic weapon in the Monster Hunter series, has been a staple since the first game in 2004. Known for its high damage output, it's also the slowest weapon, requiring strategic hit-and-run tactics. Initially designed for maximum impact with a unique feature where hitting a monster with the middle of the blade dealt more damage, the Great Sword evolved significantly with the introduction of the Charged Slash in Monster Hunter 2. This move, which can be charged up to three levels, has become a defining feature, allowing hunters to unleash devastating attacks. Subsequent games enhanced the weapon's fluidity and efficiency, introducing new attacks like the shoulder tackle in Monster Hunter World, which enables hunters to quickly transition into charged attacks.

Sword and Shield

The Sword and Shield stands out for its versatility and balanced gameplay. Initially considered a beginner's weapon due to its straightforward mechanics, it has evolved to include more complex movesets and utility. From quick slashes and combos in its first iteration, the weapon gained the ability to use items without sheathing in Monster Hunter 2. Further enhancements in later generations included shield bash combos, backstep and jumping attacks, and the powerful Perfect Rush combo in Monster Hunter World and Monster Hunter Rise. Despite its short range and moderate damage, the Sword and Shield offers an infinite combo, quick attacks, and the ability to block, making it a jack-of-all-trades weapon.

Hammer

The Hammer, one of the two impact-focused weapons, specializes in breaking monster parts and stunning them by targeting their heads. Introduced in the first game, it evolved significantly with the addition of the Big Bang and Spinning Bludgeon attacks in Monster Hunter World and Monster Hunter Rise. The weapon's mobility is surprisingly high despite its size, and its charge mechanic allows movement while charging, setting it apart from the Great Sword. The Hammer's simplicity in aiming for the head to knock out monsters quickly is balanced by the need to master its long combo finishers and charged attacks.

Lance

The Lance embodies the principle that a good offense is a great defense. With its long reach and large shield, it excels in blocking most attacks and maintaining a defensive stance. While its mobility is limited when drawn, the Lance compensates with significant damage output. Its playstyle revolves around poking from a safe distance, reinforced by the addition of a Counter mechanic in later versions. The Lance's design rewards hunters for standing their ground, turning them into formidable tanks on the battlefield.

Light Bowgun

The Light Bowgun, introduced in the first generation, offers mobility and quick reloads, making it easier to handle and safer to use compared to its heavier counterpart. While its firepower is lower due to limited ammunition choices, it can be customized with various attachments. The introduction of Rapid Fire and the Critical Distance mechanic in Monster Hunter 4 added depth to its gameplay, while Monster Hunter World introduced the Wyvernblast, further enhancing its offensive capabilities.

Heavy Bowgun

The Heavy Bowgun, known for its high damage and versatility in ammunition, is the premier ranged weapon of the first generation. Its size and weight limit mobility, but it compensates with the ability to use most special ammunition types. The introduction of Siege Mode in Monster Hunter 3 and the Wyvernheart and Wyvernsnipe special ammo types in Monster Hunter World have significantly enhanced its gameplay, making it a powerful artillery weapon.

Dual Blades

The Dual Blades, introduced in the Western release of the first game, focus on speed and fluid combos, making them ideal for inflicting status ailments and elemental damage. The weapon's Demon Mode, introduced early on, increases damage and access to offensive attacks but drains stamina. The Demon Gauge, introduced in Monster Hunter Portable 3rd and Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate, allows hunters to enter Archdemon Mode, which offers new attacks and evasive maneuvers without stamina drain, revolutionizing the weapon's gameplay.

Second Generation

Long Sword

The Long Sword, introduced in Monster Hunter 2, is known for its fluid combos and high damage. Its Spirit Gauge mechanic, filled by landing attacks, allows access to the Spirit Combo, which deals significant damage when completed. Over the years, the Long Sword received new finishers like the Spirit Roundslash and Spirit Thrust Helm Breaker, and the Foresight Slash parry attack in Monster Hunter World. The Iai Stance in Iceborne further enhanced its counter-based gameplay, making it a dynamic weapon.

Hunting Horn

The Hunting Horn, introduced in Monster Hunter 2, is renowned for its support capabilities through the Recital mechanic. By playing different colored notes, hunters can activate various beneficial effects. While its damage output is lower than the Hammer's, its ability to stun monsters and provide buffs makes it invaluable. Monster Hunter Rise overhauled the weapon, simplifying its mechanics and making it easier to use while maintaining its support role.

Gunlance

The Gunlance, a unique blend of the Lance and Bowgun introduced in the second generation, offers explosive rounds and piercing attacks. Its Shelling Abilities vary with the weapon, affecting the damage of its explosions. The introduction of the quick reload mechanic and Full Burst attack in Monster Hunter 3, along with the Heat Gauge in Monster Hunter X and the Wyrmstake Shot in Monster Hunter World, have made it a versatile and aggressive weapon.

Bow

The Bow, introduced in Monster Hunter 2, is the most agile ranged weapon, focusing on close-to-mid-range combat. Its chargeable attacks and Coatings enhance damage and inflict elemental effects. The weapon's fluid combos and mobility are its strengths, with significant additions in Monster Hunter World and Monster Hunter Rise enhancing its aggressive and combo-heavy playstyle.

Third and Fourth Generation

Switch Axe

The Switch Axe, introduced in Monster Hunter 3, features two modes: Axe Mode and Sword Mode. While the Axe Mode offers range and mobility, the Sword Mode delivers higher damage and access to the Elemental Discharge finisher. The Amped mechanic in Monster Hunter World and its enhancements in Monster Hunter Rise have improved the weapon's morphing capabilities and damage output.

Insect Glaive

The Insect Glaive, introduced in Monster Hunter 4, specializes in aerial combat and is paired with a Kinsect that collects essences to grant buffs. The weapon's true potential is unlocked by collecting three specific essences, enhancing attack, mobility, and defense. While its core gameplay has remained consistent, upgrades to the Kinsect system in Monster Hunter World: Iceborne and Monster Hunter Rise have made it more accessible and versatile.

Charge Blade

The Charge Blade, introduced in Monster Hunter 4, is a complex and versatile weapon with Sword Mode and Axe Mode. Its mechanics revolve around charging phials in Sword Mode and unleashing them in Axe Mode through the Amped Elemental Discharge. Mastering its Guard Points and transitions between modes is challenging but rewarding, making it a favorite among skilled hunters.

Will There Be More?

Monster Hunter Wilds will feature the fourteen weapons discussed, but the series has a history of introducing new weapons or bringing back old ones from previous games not released in the West. Given the longevity and innovation of the series, future iterations may introduce even more weapons, enhancing the depth and excitement of the gameplay.

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