A Monster Hunter game is finally coming to the Nintendo Switch, but unfortunately for fans, it's not going to be Monster Hunter: World.
Capcom has confirmed plans to localize the 3DS's Monster Hunter XX as Monster Hunter: Generations Ultimate for Nintendo's latest hybrid platform, making it the first Monster Hunter title for the console released in regions outside Japan.
It'll be the fourth version of the game, which initially launched in 2015 as Monster Hunter Generations, known as Monster Hunter X in Japan. Capcom then followed it up with Monster Hunter XX, an expanded version of the original that didn't get localized for North American audiences, unfortunately. Japan also got a Switch version of Monster Hunter XX in 2017, which also didn't get localized.
Technically, It's Not A New Game, But There Are New Elements
Monster Hunter: Generations Ultimate will feature all content from the previous versions, including the visual upgrades introduced in Monster Hunter XX for the Switch. Aside from that, the game will feature some new elements as well.
Expect new variant "Deviant" monsters, an all-new Elder Dragon called Valstrax, and a new boss called Ahtal-Ka.
Deviant monsters are powerful variants of enemies that have survived previous hunter encounters and have taken on new traits and abilities. New ones coming to the Switch include Boltreaver Astalos, Elderfrost Gammoth, Soulseer Mizutsune, Bloodbath Diablos, Nightcloak Malfestio, and Rustrazor Ceanataur.
There are also two new Styles: Alchemy and Valor. Alchemy Style gives the player a barrel that, when shaken, yields items with special properties, interesting buffs for the hunting party, and unique attacks. Valor Style, on the other hand, is meant to be played by more experienced players.
Transfer Your Save Data From 3DS
3DS players will be able to transfer their save files to the Nintendo Switch and pick up where they left off. It's not clear exactly how this will work, or if the upcoming Nintendo Switch Online service will be required.
Monster Hunter: Generations Ultimate
A lot of players have been hoping Capcom would release a port of Monster Hunter: World, its more sophisticated entry that was launched for all major platforms excluding the Switch. Capcom has said that it would be difficult to pull off for a number of reasons, chief of which is presumably the console's less powerful specifications. But Monster Hunter: Generations Ultimate is better than nothing.
Capcom has confirmed that the game will be playable at the forthcoming E3 gaming expo.
The game comes out exclusively for the Switch this Aug. 28. Check out the announcement trailer below. Also, if you have anything to share, feel free to sound them off in the comments section!
