Monster Hunter Rise: Still a Roaring Good Time for Retro-Minded Hunters

Five years on from its PC debut, Monster Hunter Rise stands as a testament to the timeless appeal of a well-crafted action loop. At a mere $3.99, it’s an absolute no-brainer for anyone with even a passing interest in gearing up, tracking massive beasts, and bashing them into submission alongside friends.

The Thrill of the Hunt, Refined

The core loop is deceptively simple: prepare your loadout, embark on a hunt, and use the spoils to craft better gear. What elevates it is the Wirebug mechanic—a grappling hook that lets you zip through environments and unleash devastating aerial combos. Pair that with Switch Skills that modify weapon movesets, and you’ve got a combat system that feels both flashy and deeply satisfying. From the weighty clang of a Great Sword to the graceful dance of the Insect Glaive, every weapon type feels distinct, channeling the kind of mechanical depth I used to adore in classic arcade brawlers. Landing a perfect counter or toppling a monster with a well-timed team combo is pure, unadulterated joy.

Strengths: Atmosphere and Teamwork

Rise’s environments are vibrant and alive, shifting with the time of day and echoing with the thunderous roars of its monsters. The sound design sells every impact, making each topple feel earned. Co-op shines brightest here; coordinating traps and combos with a full party recalls the chaotic joy of old-school couch co-op sessions. If you’ve ever lost hours to the boss-slaying camaraderie of Valheim, you’ll find a kindred spirit in Rise’s hunts. The HDR support and lush, colorful visuals help each locale pop, while the tracking and trapping systems build a tense, exciting atmosphere that perfectly fits the monster-slaying fantasy.

Drawbacks: Grind and Grit

Not everything is a victory fanfare. Some weapons demand hours of practice just to feel competent—a barrier that might remind retro fans of unforgiving NES-era action games. The gathering and crafting loop, while addictive, can wear thin after your dozenth hunt for a single rare drop, feeling more like a chore than an adventure. The early hours are intentionally slow, which may turn away those craving instant gratification. And while the music heightens the drama during key moments, it can grow repetitive in marathon sessions.

Who It’s For

This is a game for the dedicated. If you relish mastering intricate systems, don’t mind a grind, and have a crew to hunt with, Rise is a treasure trove. Casual dabblers might bounce off the steep onboarding, but patient players—especially those with a fondness for methodical, old-school action—will uncover one of the most rewarding action titles of the last decade.

Verdict: Monster Hunter Rise is a masterclass in risk-and-reward combat that only gets better with age—and at $3.99, it’s an essential pickup for anyone who loves a good boss fight.

Expected score: 9/10