First time using these weapons in Monster Hunter Wilds DLC
The Evolution of the Hunt: Sneak Peeks at Monster Hunter Wilds: Ascendance
The wait is almost over. As we approach the end of Monster Hunter Wilds: Ascendance, the developers have unleashed a series of weapon trailers that reveal a staggering array of innovations coming for the game’s fourteen weapon types. These updates aren’t just minor tweaks; they promise to inject fresh dynamism and strategic depth into the hunting experience.
We’ve been diving into the new footage focusing on three highly anticipated weapons: the Heavy Bowgun, the Lance, and the Switch Axe. While I’ve played the base game, these new mechanics hint at the kind of innovation that can elevate the core gameplay, pushing players to master entirely new ways of engaging with the environment and the colossal monsters.
Heavy Bowgun: Turning Artillery into Art
First up is the Heavy Bowgun, a weapon defined by its raw power. The updates transform it from a simple ranged weapon into a true artillery piece. We see a new Boost Driver attack that fires a powerful laser beam, an Overcharge mechanic allowing for an enhanced shot, and a special mode that transforms the weapon into a close-range plasma shot, channeling that high-octane energy reminiscent of classic Capcom action.
When in Boost Mode, the Heavy Bowgun gains tactical freedom, allowing players to reload ammo while dodging incoming attacks—a move that can even cancel the Boost Driver attack for unshakeable safety. Furthermore, the changes to Adhesive Ammo mean that these sticky pellets now unleash multiple explosive pellets instantly, making ammunition usage more visceral and impactful than ever before.
Lance: The Defense Meets the Offense
Next, we examine the Lance, the original defensive weapon. While traditionally focused on blocking, the DLC introduces potent offensive capabilities that reward aggressive play. The Lance features a new Boost Driver attack where a slam onto a monster’s face acts as an Offset counter move, enabling players to parry incoming attacks.
Mastering the Boost Gauge unlocks staggering combos. By chaining multiple Boost Driver attacks, players can initiate a sequence that allows them to stab enemies dozens of times, dramatically increasing their chances of triggering status ailment build-up. This enhanced offensive window is further amplified by a new counterattack mechanic, where players can perform a shield bash strike to generate a short-range shockwave, stunning foes and adding a heavy layer of physical interaction to combat.
Switch Axe: Unleashing Transformative Power
Finally, the trailer for the Switch Axe showcases the most visually dynamic changes. This weapon is already complex, blending a giant axe with a sword that can detonate upon impact. The updates focus on maximizing the potential of the Axe Mode while creating seamless transitions into the powerful Sword Mode.
New maneuvers allow players to instantly trigger the transformation into Sword Mode using a Boost Driver attack, immediately accessing the weapon’s peak power. Sword Mode itself is packed with enhanced moves, including a charging stab attack that allows players to latch onto monsters and unleash devastating Zero Sum Discharge attacks, followed by an aerial dive. These changes significantly enhance combo options and sharpen the speed of the weapon’s counterattacks, making the transformation feel incredibly fluid and responsive.
Whether it’s the heavy artillery of the Bowgun, the tactical depth of the Lance, or the dazzling transformations of the Switch Axe, the changes signal that Monster Hunter Wilds: Ascendance is preparing to deliver a truly next-level experience. Get ready to hunt, innovate, and discover new frontiers when Monster Hunter Wilds: Ascendance launches in 2027 across Xbox Series X, S, PlayStation 5, and Steam.
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