Monster Hunter Can Play Like Dark Souls or Devil May Cry, Depending on Your Weapon

For newcomers, Monster Hunter Rise's sudden popularity might seem surprising. However, Capcom's years of refining the Monster Hunter series have culminated in what appears to be one of the franchise's best-selling titles. With over a million concurrent Steam players, it's clear Monster Hunter Rise is a phenomenon. But if you're feeling lost, overwhelmed by the sheer number of options, there's a simple key to unlocking maximum enjoyment: choosing the right weapon.

Monster Hunter Rise offers an impressive arsenal of weapons, each with a distinct playstyle. From the powerful Great Sword to the nimble Dual Blades and the ranged Bowguns, the variety is staggering.

While the Great Sword and Switch Axe are iconic, their deliberate, precise swings might feel daunting for beginners. A more accessible starting point is the Dual Blades, which offer fast-paced attacks and dodges. This shift is significant: the Great Sword evokes the methodical combat of *Dark Souls*, while the Dual Blades feel more akin to the action-oriented combat of *Devil May Cry*.

Rise modernizes the combat compared to previous entries, making it more intuitive for players familiar with recent action RPGs. While sheathing your weapon is still necessary for healing, the combat feels smoother and more responsive. However, unlike other action RPGs that allow extensive customization through skill trees, Monster Hunter Rise's weapon choice fundamentally shapes your gameplay experience.

Your initial weapon selection defines your entire journey. If you crave fast-paced, combo-heavy action reminiscent of Dante, the Dual Blades are perfect, emphasizing quick attacks, agile dodges, and powerful combos once a meter is filled.

Which Monster Hunter Playstyle Do You Prefer? ---------------------------------------------

The bigger the weapon, the better.Give me speed. More speed.Ranged attacks are the best.I like mixing-and-matching different weapon styles.

AnswerSee ResultsConversely, if you prefer a balance of heavy damage, defense, and mobility, the Sword and Shield is an excellent starting point. The Lance, though less popular due to its defensive focus, offers a unique parry-and-counter combat style that rewards practice.

Ranged weapons like the Bowguns provide substantial power. Remember to manage your ammo supply and select appropriate ammunition for each monster.

With 14 weapons, each with unique properties, the choices can seem overwhelming. However, they largely fall into three categories: heavy (high damage, low speed), light (rapid attacks), and technical. Some weapons blur these lines—the Gunlance offers ranged capabilities, the Charge Blade shifts between axe and blade forms, and the Insect Glaive and Hunting Horn provide unique buffs.

Don't be intimidated by the variety. Experiment with each weapon in the tutorial before committing to one. Whether you prefer a Devil May Cry-style frenzy or a Dark Souls-inspired strategic approach, the perfect weapon awaits.