Monster Hunter Weapons: A Historical Overview

Monster Hunter is renowned for its diverse array of weapon types and captivating gameplay, but did you know there are even more weapons from older games that haven't made it to the newer releases? Dive into the history of Monster Hunter weapons and discover more fascinating details.

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History of Weapon Types in Monster Hunter

Monster Hunter has been enchanting gamers for over two decades since its debut in 2004. One of its standout features is the extensive range of weapon types, each offering unique strengths, weaknesses, movesets, and mechanics. Monster Hunter Wilds will feature fourteen distinct weapon types, each demanding mastery to unlock its full potential.

The evolution of these weapons, from their initial forms to their latest iterations, is remarkable. The Great Sword, for instance, has transformed significantly since its introduction. Moreover, there are intriguing weapons from earlier games that never made it to the Western market. Let's explore the rich history of Monster Hunter, focusing on the evolution of the weapons.

First Generation

The original Monster Hunter game introduced a set of iconic weapons that have since evolved with new movesets and mechanics.

Great Sword

The Great Sword is arguably the most iconic weapon in the franchise, known for its high damage output since its debut in 2004. While it excels in single-hit damage, its slow movement and attack speed make it challenging to wield. In the first game, it was primarily used for hit-and-run tactics, with a unique feature where hitting with the middle of the blade caused more damage.

Monster Hunter 2 introduced the Charged Slash, a move that has since become central to the weapon's identity. Subsequent games enhanced this feature with additional finishers and improved combo flow. Monster Hunter World introduced the shoulder tackle, allowing for quicker access to charged attacks. Mastering the Great Sword requires understanding its high-skill ceiling to maximize damage within tight windows.

Sword and Shield

The Sword and Shield embodies versatility, offering balanced damage, quick combos, mobility, and utility. Initially seen as a beginner's weapon, it has evolved significantly over the series. The first game emphasized its quick slashes and mobility, while Monster Hunter 2 added the ability to use items without sheathing.

Later generations enriched its moveset with shield bash combos, backstep and jumping attacks, and the Perfect Rush combo in Monster Hunter World and Monster Hunter Rise. Despite its modest damage output, the Sword and Shield's depth and utility make it a formidable choice for players who appreciate its jack-of-all-trades nature.

Hammer

The Hammer, focused on blunt damage, excels at breaking monster parts and inducing knockouts. Its hit-and-run style, combined with surprising mobility, sets it apart from the Great Sword. The weapon's charge mechanic, allowing movement while charging, adds a unique layer to its playstyle.

Significant changes came with Monster Hunter World and Monster Hunter Rise, introducing the Big Bang and Spinning Bludgeon attacks. The addition of Strength and Courage modes further enhanced the weapon's depth, requiring players to adapt their strategy based on the monster and maintain charge while moving.

Lance

The Lance embodies the principle that a strong defense can lead to a powerful offense. With its long reach and formidable shield, it excels at blocking most attacks and maintaining a defensive stance. Its playstyle, akin to an outboxer, focuses on safe, ranged pokes and strategic counterattacks.

While often seen as less flashy, the Lance's unique design rewards players for standing their ground. Monster Hunter 3 introduced the Siege Mode, enhancing its defensive capabilities, and subsequent games added new finishers and mechanics to keep it relevant and engaging.

Light Bowgun

The Light Bowgun, a versatile ranged weapon, offers mobility and faster reload times due to its smaller size. While it sacrifices some firepower compared to the Heavy Bowgun, its customization options and Rapid Fire capability make it a valuable asset.

Monster Hunter 4 introduced the Critical Distance mechanic, adding depth to ranged combat, while Monster Hunter World enhanced its offensive capabilities with the Wyvernblast and a slide maneuver, further differentiating it from its heavier counterpart.

Heavy Bowgun

The Heavy Bowgun, introduced in the first generation, is the ultimate ranged weapon, offering high damage and a wide variety of ammunition. Its slow movement when drawn is offset by its flexibility and customization options, including the ability to equip a shield.

Significant changes came with Monster Hunter 3's Siege Mode, allowing for continuous shelling without reloading. Monster Hunter World introduced the Wyvernheart and Wyvernsnipe special ammo types, further enriching its gameplay. Preparation is key with this weapon, as crafting stronger ammunition during hunts is essential.

Dual Blades

The Dual Blades are known for their speed and multi-hitting attacks, making them ideal for inflicting status ailments and elemental damage. Introduced in the Western release of the first game, they emphasize fluid combos and high attack speed.

The Demon Mode, introduced early on, increases damage output at the cost of stamina. Monster Hunter Portable 3rd and Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate added the Demon Gauge and Archdemon Mode, revolutionizing the weapon's playstyle by allowing access to powerful moves without stamina drain. Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate further enhanced its mobility with the Adept Hunter Style.

Second Generation

The second generation of Monster Hunter games introduced new weapons that, while similar to their predecessors, offered distinct movesets and mechanics.

Long Sword

The Long Sword, known for its fluid combos and high damage, was introduced in Monster Hunter 2. It shares similarities with the Great Sword but offers greater mobility and a more dynamic combo structure. Its core mechanic, the Spirit Gauge, allows access to powerful Spirit Combos.

Monster Hunter 3 introduced new levels to the Spirit Gauge, enhancing its offensive potential. Monster Hunter World added the Foresight Slash, a parry attack, and Iceborne introduced the Iai Stance, further evolving the weapon into a counter-based playstyle that seamlessly flows into its combos.

Hunting Horn

The Hunting Horn, introduced in Monster Hunter 2, is the ultimate support weapon, using its Recital mechanic to play songs that provide various buffs. While it deals impact damage like the Hammer, its primary role is support.

Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate allowed note-playing during attacks, significantly improving its flow. Monster Hunter World introduced song queuing, and Iceborne added Echo Notes, enhancing its support capabilities. Monster Hunter Rise overhauled the weapon, simplifying its mechanics but sparking debate about its lost complexity.

Gunlance

The Gunlance, introduced in the second generation, combines the Lance's defensive capabilities with explosive shelling. Its unique Shelling Abilities and the Wyvern's Fire finisher set it apart from other weapons.

Monster Hunter 3 added a quick reload mechanic and the Full Burst attack, enhancing its aggressive playstyle. Monster Hunter X introduced the Heat Gauge, adding a new layer of strategy, and Monster Hunter World added the Wyrmstake Shot, further enriching its offensive options.

Bow

The Bow, introduced in Monster Hunter 2, is the most agile ranged weapon, specializing in close-to-mid-range combat. Its mobility and combo-based attacks set it apart from other ranged weapons.

Monster Hunter World simplified its mechanics, making its moveset universal and enhancing its combo potential. Monster Hunter Rise reintroduced Shot Types tied to charge levels, adding more depth to its gameplay while maintaining its aggressive and fluid playstyle.

Third and Fourth Generation

The third and fourth generations of Monster Hunter introduced innovative weapons with unique mechanics.

Switch Axe

The Switch Axe, introduced in Monster Hunter 3, features two modes: Axe Mode for mobility and reach, and Sword Mode for higher damage and the Elemental Discharge finisher. Its morphing capabilities were enhanced in subsequent games, with Monster Hunter World introducing the Amped state.

Monster Hunter Rise further improved the Amped state, encouraging players to switch forms during combat to maximize damage. The Switch Axe's unique form-swapping mechanic adds a dynamic element to the series' gameplay.

Insect Glaive

The Insect Glaive, introduced in Monster Hunter 4, excels in aerial combat with its Kinsect companion, which collects essences to grant buffs. The weapon's versatility and the ability to mount monsters quickly make it a favorite among players.

While its core gameplay remains consistent, Monster Hunter World: Iceborne added the Descending Thrust finisher, and Monster Hunter Rise simplified its upgrade system and introduced new Kinsect types. The Insect Glaive's unique design and aerial prowess continue to captivate players.

Charge Blade

The Charge Blade, introduced in Monster Hunter 4, is a complex weapon with Sword and Axe modes. It requires mastering Guard Points to charge phials and execute powerful Amped Elemental Discharges.

Its versatility and depth make it challenging but rewarding to master. The Charge Blade's balanced offense and mechanical complexity have earned it a dedicated following within the Monster Hunter community.

Will There Be More?

Monster Hunter Wilds will feature the fourteen weapons discussed, but the series has a history of introducing new weapons or reintroducing old ones from previous releases. Given the franchise's longevity and dedication to innovation, future games may introduce even more weapons to enhance the gameplay experience.

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