see deal Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate - Nintendo 3DS $19.99 on Gamestop

The honest truth about trying Monster Hunter for the first time is that it's overwhelming. The game, in this case Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate

Loading

This isn't just an action game where you rush around maps wildly hacking at creatures. You don't simply acquire new weapons on the fly. The biggest sword isn't always the best solution.I'm learning a lot of this stuff the hard way.Rather than write my lengthy impressions of the game, however, I'm simply recording them and doing commentary with fellow executive editor (and Monster Hunter Tri reviewer) Charles Onyett. He knows a lot about Monster Hunter. I know nothing. (I also slipped on the game's release date in the video - it's March 19, not March 18!)Watch us wander around the game's opening area, and watch me learn that my big sword is totally not suited for my level of experience. Live. Learn. Hunt monsters. Hope you enjoy.That's just an opening look at Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate. In the coming weeks I'll be returning to the game, chronicling my progress and letting you guys watch my evolution from meager weakling to badass hunter. Here's hoping, at least.

Rich is an Executive Editor of IGN.com and the leader of IGN's Nintendo team. He also watches over all things WWE, Resident Evil, Assassin's Creed and much more. Follow Rich on Twitter , if you dare!