Monster Hunter: World, the 2018 action role-playing game developed and published by Capcom, has been a hot topic of discussion among gamers and critics alike. While the game received widespread critical acclaim for its engaging gameplay, stunning visuals, and immersive soundtrack, one aspect of the game has been a subject of debate: its story. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Monster Hunter: World and explore the answer to the age-old question: does Monster Hunter: World have a story?
The Importance of Story in Games
Before we dive into the world of Monster Hunter: World, it’s essential to understand the significance of storytelling in video games. A well-crafted narrative can elevate a game from mere entertainment to an immersive experience that resonates with players on a deeper level. A good story can:
- Provide context and motivation for the player’s actions
- Create emotional connections with characters and the game world
- Enhance the overall sense of immersion and engagement
In recent years, storytelling in games has become increasingly complex and sophisticated, with many titles boasting narratives that rival those of novels and films. However, Monster Hunter: World takes a different approach to storytelling, one that has sparked controversy among fans and critics.
The Mysterious Case of the Missing Narrative
At first glance, Monster Hunter: World’s story seems almost non-existent. The game’s protagonist, a hunter known as the “Hunter,” is tasked with hunting and slaying massive monsters that threaten the New World, a vast, uncharted region filled with ancient ruins and hidden secrets. The game’s narrative is presented through a series of brief cutscenes, codec conversations, and environmental storytelling.
While this approach may seem lacking in comparison to other narrative-driven games, it’s essential to understand that Monster Hunter: World’s story is not meant to be a traditional, linear narrative. Instead, the game’s developers aimed to create a sense of discovery and exploration, where players would uncover the secrets of the New World through their own actions and experiences.
The Hunter’s Journey: Uncovering the Story
To truly understand Monster Hunter: World’s story, players must engage with the game’s world and its inhabitants. The Hunter’s journey is one of discovery, as they explore the New World, uncover hidden secrets, and piece together the mysteries of this ancient land.
Throughout the game, players will encounter various characters, each with their own motivations and goals. The Commander, a gruff, no-nonsense leader, serves as the Hunter’s primary mission giver and source of information. Other characters, like the enigmatic Dr. Geogre A. Viernstein and the mysterious Handler, provide additional context and insight into the world’s history and lore.
Environmental Storytelling: Uncovering the Past
One of the most effective ways Monster Hunter: World tells its story is through environmental storytelling. The game’s environments are meticulously designed to convey the history and secrets of the New World. Ancient ruins, abandoned research facilities, and mysterious artifacts all hold clues to the world’s mysterious past.
For example, the Rotten Vale, a toxic, nightmarish environment, is home to ancient ruins that hold the secrets of the Old World. By exploring these ruins, players can uncover the story of the Old World’s downfall and the consequences of playing with forces beyond human control.
Is Monster Hunter: World’s Story Enough?
So, does Monster Hunter: World have a story? The answer is yes, but it’s not a traditional narrative in the classical sense. The game’s story is a tapestry of threads, woven together through environmental storytelling, character interactions, and the player’s own experiences.
While some players may find the game’s narrative lacking, others will appreciate the sense of discovery and exploration that Monster Hunter: World offers. The game’s story is not meant to be a driving force behind the gameplay; instead, it serves as a framework for the player’s experiences, providing context and motivation for their actions.
In conclusion, Monster Hunter: World’s story is not about grand, cinematic cutscenes or elaborate plot twists; it’s about discovery, exploration, and immersion. By engaging with the game’s world and its inhabitants, players can uncover the secrets of the New World and experience a unique, engaging narrative that complements the game’s exceptional gameplay.
In the end, whether or not Monster Hunter: World’s story is “enough” is a matter of personal preference. For some, the game’s narrative may be too subtle or understated, while others will appreciate the sense of discovery and exploration that it offers. One thing is certain, however: Monster Hunter: World is an exceptional game that offers an immersive, engaging experience that will keep players coming back for more.
Does Monster Hunter: World have a story mode?
Monster Hunter: World does have a story mode, often referred to as the “main storyline” or “campaign” by players. The game’s story is presented through a series of quests, cutscenes, and interactions with non-playable characters (NPCs). While the story is not the primary focus of the game, it does provide a narrative framework for the player’s adventures.
The story mode is designed to guide new players through the game’s mechanics, introducing them to the various systems and features that make up Monster Hunter: World. As the player progresses through the story, they’ll encounter various characters, including other hunters, researchers, and tribal leaders, who will provide context and motivation for the player’s actions. The story is engaging and well-produced, but it’s ultimately secondary to the game’s core gameplay experience.
<h2:Is the story in Monster Hunter: World worth paying attention to?
While the story in Monster Hunter: World is not the primary draw for most players, it is worth paying attention to. The game’s narrative is more developed and engaging than in previous Monster Hunter titles, with a clearer structure and more defined characters. The story provides context and motivation for the player’s actions, and helps to flesh out the game’s world and lore.
That being said, the story is not the main attraction in Monster Hunter: World. The game’s true focus is on the gameplay experience, with the story serving as a supporting element. Players who are primarily interested in the game’s story may find themselves a bit disappointed, as the narrative takes a backseat to the action and exploration. However, for players who are invested in the game’s world and characters, the story can be a rich and rewarding aspect of the experience.
How long is the story mode in Monster Hunter: World?
The length of the story mode in Monster Hunter: World can vary depending on the player’s skill level and playstyle. For casual players, the main story can take around 20-30 hours to complete, although this can be longer if they take their time to explore the game’s world and complete side quests.
For more experienced players, the story mode can be completed in around 10-15 hours, as they’ll be more familiar with the game’s mechanics and can progress through the story more quickly. Keep in mind that the story is just one aspect of the game, and there’s much more to explore and experience in Monster Hunter: World beyond the main narrative.
Is the story of Monster Hunter: World connected to other games in the series?
The story of Monster Hunter: World is designed to be a standalone experience, and players do not need to have played previous games in the series to understand or enjoy the narrative. While there are some nods to previous games and characters, the story is new and original, and is not heavily reliant on prior knowledge of the series.
That being said, players who are familiar with the series will likely pick up on some connections and references to previous games. The game’s world and lore are shared with other Monster Hunter titles, and there are some recurring characters and plot elements that add depth and context to the story. However, these connections are not essential to understanding or enjoying the game’s narrative.
Can I play through the story mode with friends?
While Monster Hunter: World does offer cooperative multiplayer, the story mode is designed to be played solo. Players can team up with friends to tackle quests and hunt monsters, but the story is structured around a single player’s progression and experience.
That being said, players can join up with friends to complete quests and missions that are part of the story mode. This can make the experience more enjoyable and challenging, as players can work together to take down tough monsters and complete difficult objectives. While the story itself is solo-only, the gameplay experience can be shared with friends.
Will I miss out on the story if I focus on multiplayer?
While the story mode is an important part of Monster Hunter: World, players who focus on multiplayer can still enjoy the game without missing out on the narrative. The game’s multiplayer features are designed to be separate from the story mode, and players can engage in cooperative play without progressing through the story.
That being said, some multiplayer quests and missions are tied to the story mode, and players may need to complete certain story quests to unlock these features. However, the game provides plenty of ways for players to engage with the multiplayer experience without having to focus on the story. Ultimately, the choice is up to the player, and both the story mode and multiplayer offer unique and rewarding experiences.
Are there any post-story content or DLCs available?
Yes, Monster Hunter: World has a range of post-story content and DLCs (downloadable content) available. The game’s post-story content includes additional quests, events, and challenges that provide new gameplay opportunities and rewards. These are designed to extend the game’s lifespan and provide more challenges and content for players who have completed the story mode.
In addition to post-story content, the game has received several DLCs that add new monsters, quests, and gameplay features. These DLCs are available for purchase separately, and offer new challenges and opportunities for players. The game’s developer, Capcom, has been active in releasing new content and updates for the game, ensuring that players have a constant stream of new content to enjoy.