by Josh Jackson Learning The Ropes With ‘Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate’

After so many years and completely missing out on the core version of the latest Monster Hunter title, the recently announced release date of February 13th can’t come soon enough. To help hold us over, Capcom released a demo that gives us a taste of how we can expect to spend the next couple years of our lives, complete with the full weapon set and three new monsters to hunt. We took the time to check out what new features this brief download has to offer, which surprised us enough to keep even veteran hunters on their toes.

In an attempt to cater to both new and old hunters alike, this preview offers both beginner and expert levels of difficulties, in addition to in-game tutorials to explain the pros and cons of the weapon you choose. Every weapon is accounted for, including the new Insect Staff and Charge Blade, giving pros a chance to get accustomed to these new tools before the serious adventures begin. Yet, with the Great Jaggi, Tetsucabra, and Gore Magala on the prowl, they serve as all the practice you need if you hope to survive the dangers of the wild.



Starting with the Charge Blade, this weapon will feel familiar to anyone who used the Switch Axe in the past. Taking two forms, its standard stance is the sword and shield, building up energy with each successful attack. When the blade is fully charged, attaching the shield to the sword turns it into a powerful axe, releasing all of the built up power into a series of crushing blows. If you’re feeling a little more crafty, the Insect Staff feels like a more offense focused version of the Hunting Horn. While the double sided blade does a fair share of damage on its own, its true strength lies with its ability to send a pet insect flying at enemy monsters, absorbing status boosting effects on contact. With the ability to drain attack strength, defensive boosts, replenish stamina and restore health, this weapon has a level of versatility that most others lack, making it one to watch as the hunts get tougher.

That’s not to suggest that the demo hunts aren’t tough, especially when it comes to fighting Gore Magala. This destructive beast shoots and guards itself with a stamina draining black mist that forces players to strike carefully. But in my playthroughs, no matter how many times I broke its wings, its head or cut off its tail, this resilient opponent just wouldn’t die within the time limit, while making sure to knock out a couple of my lives in the process. It wasn’t until I took advantage of the climbing, jumping and air attack features that I was finally able to claim victory. By stalking prey from above, MH4 introduces the ability to land powerful strikes from the skies. Once weak enough, the best course of action is often to either climb, or jump on the monster’s back, and hack away as if your life depended on it. Adding a new level of depth and unpredictability to the tried and true formula, pulling these moves off managed to surprise even an old vet like me. But if that still doesn’t work, you can always hop online or get some friends together to take it on as a team!

Finally being able to get a taste of the fourth game has left me wanting so much more. The more dynamic fights, new weapons and tough as nails monsters keep us coming back for more, with enough familiarity to make our playtime feel right at home. Keep your eyes peeled for our full review as we get some time with the final release, and let us know what features you’re most looking forward to!