The 10 Best Monster Hunter Games

Capcom's Monster Hunter franchise has captivated gamers for two decades with its thrilling blend of strategic combat and intense monster hunts. From its 2004 PlayStation 2 debut to the chart-topping success of Monster Hunter World in 2018, the series has undergone significant evolution. This ranking considers only the "Ultimate" versions of games where multiple editions exist.

10. Monster Hunter

• Developer: Capcom Production Studio 1
• Publisher: Capcom
• Release Date: September 21, 2004 (NA)
• Review: IGN's Monster Hunter review

The original Monster Hunter laid the groundwork for the series' future. While its controls and instructions may feel dated, the core gameplay remains engaging. Confronting colossal beasts with limited resources was groundbreaking in 2004, although the steep learning curve proved challenging. Its online focus, though hampered by defunct servers outside Japan, remains a significant aspect of its legacy.

9. Monster Hunter Freedom

• Developer: Capcom Production Studio 1
• Publisher: Capcom
• Release Date: May 23, 2006 (NA)
• Review: IGN's Monster Hunter Freedom review

The first portable Monster Hunter, released on the PlayStation Portable, expanded upon Monster Hunter G. Its portability revolutionized the series' reach, emphasizing cooperative gameplay and connecting players worldwide. Despite dated controls and camera, its impact on the franchise is undeniable.

8. Monster Hunter Freedom Unite

• Developer: Capcom Production Studio 1
• Publisher: Capcom
• Release Date: June 22, 2009 (NA)
• Review: IGN's Monster Hunter Freedom Unite review

An expansion of Monster Hunter Freedom 2, this title boasted the series' largest roster at launch, introducing iconic monsters like Nargacuga. The introduction of Felyne companions enhanced the gameplay experience, despite the game's inherent challenges.

7. Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate

• Developer: Capcom Production Studio 1
• Publisher: Capcom
• Release Date: March 19, 2013 (NA)
• Review: IGN's Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate review

Refining Monster Hunter Tri, this version offered a streamlined story and difficulty, alongside new monsters and quests. The return of several weapon types contributed to a more complete arsenal. Underwater combat added variety, although camera control remained an issue.

6. Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate

• Developer: Capcom Production Studio 1
• Publisher: Capcom
• Release Date: February 13, 2015 (NA)
• Review: IGN's Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate review

This marked a significant shift with the introduction of dedicated online multiplayer, transcending geographical limitations for cooperative hunts. Apex Monsters provided challenging endgame content, and vertical movement expanded gameplay possibilities.

5. Monster Hunter Rise

• Developer: Capcom
• Publisher: Capcom
• Release Date: March 26, 2021
• Review: IGN's Monster Hunter Rise review

A return to handhelds after Monster Hunter World, Rise refined console gameplay for a portable experience. Palamutes (rideable canine companions) and the Wirebug mechanic enhanced mobility and combat, bringing a console-level scale to handhelds.

4. Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak

• Developer: Capcom
• Publisher: Capcom
• Release Date: June 30, 2022
• Review: IGN's Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak review

This massive expansion added a new location, challenging monsters, and a revised weapon system. The gothic horror aesthetic of the Citadel and the challenging endgame hunts were standout features.

3. Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate

• Developer: Capcom
• Publisher: Capcom
• Release Date: August 28, 2018
• Review: IGN's Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate review

A culmination of the previous decade, this title featured the series' largest monster roster (93) and Hunter Styles, drastically altering gameplay with unique weapon movesets. The extensive customization options added significant depth.

2. Monster Hunter World: Iceborne

• Developer: Capcom
• Publisher: Capcom
• Release Date: September 6, 2019
• Review: IGN's Monster Hunter World: Iceborne review

This expansion felt like a full sequel, adding a substantial campaign and numerous hunts. The Guiding Lands provided a seamless blend of previous environments, and new monsters like Savage Deviljho and Velkhana elevated the experience.

1. Monster Hunter: World

• Developer: Capcom
• Publisher: Capcom
• Release Date: January 26, 2018
• Review: IGN's Monster Hunter: World review

Monster Hunter: World catapulted the series to global recognition. Its expansive open zones and emphasis on the thrill of the hunt established a new standard. The sense of scale, diverse environments, and improved story cemented its place as a top-tier game.

This ranking represents a subjective assessment. Your personal experiences and preferences may differ. What are your thoughts? Share your own rankings! Are you anticipating Monster Hunter Wilds?