For the past two decades, Capcom's Monster Hunter series has captivated gamers worldwide with its thrilling blend of strategic planning and intense monster combat. From its debut on the PlayStation 2 in 2004 to the blockbuster success of Monster Hunter World in 2018, the franchise has seen significant evolution over the years.
Each Monster Hunter game offers a unique experience, yet we've meticulously ranked all the main titles and their major expansions to identify the cream of the crop. It's important to note that our rankings focus solely on the "Ultimate" versions of the games, which are the most comprehensive editions. So, without further ado, let's dive into our top 10 list:
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 set the stage for what would become a beloved series. While its complex controls and directions can make it challenging to revisit today, the core elements that define Monster Hunter are unmistakably present. The game introduced players to the exhilarating experience of hunting massive beasts with limited resources, a concept that was groundbreaking in 2004 despite its steep learning curve. Originally designed with a focus on online play for the PlayStation 2, the game's single-player mode still allows players to relive the hunts that sparked a genre, even if official servers are no longer operational outside Japan.
9. Monster Hunter Freedom
Developer: Capcom Production Studio 1 | Publisher: Capcom | Release Date: May 23, 2006 (NA) | Review: IGN's Monster Hunter Freedom review
Monster Hunter Freedom marked the series' first foray onto the PlayStation Portable, following its Japanese release in 2005. An enhanced version of Monster Hunter G, Freedom brought significant quality-of-life improvements and introduced the series to a handheld audience. Its portability revolutionized multiplayer, enabling hunters to team up anywhere, anytime. Despite its dated controls and camera issues, Freedom's importance in expanding the series' reach cannot be overstated, serving as a foundational step for future handheld iterations.
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, which itself built upon Monster Hunter 2 (Japan-only), Monster Hunter Freedom Unite was the largest game in the series at its launch. It introduced iconic monsters like the Nargacuga and brought the beloved Felyne companions into the fray. While these companions didn't make the game's tougher challenges easier, they certainly enhanced the overall journey, making Freedom Unite a significant milestone in the series' history.
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
Building on the foundation laid by Monster Hunter Tri, Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate refined the story and difficulty curve, introducing new monsters and quests. The reintroduction of weapons like the Hunting Horn, Bow, Gunlance, and Dual Blades rounded out the arsenal, offering players more diverse combat options. The inclusion of underwater battles added a fresh twist, though the camera could be cumbersome. Despite some limitations with the Wii U's online multiplayer, 3 Ultimate remains a quintessential Monster Hunter experience, reflecting the series' ongoing evolution.
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
Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate was a pivotal moment for the series, introducing dedicated online multiplayer to handhelds, which significantly expanded the game's social aspect. The addition of Apex Monsters provided challenging endgame content, while vertical movement mechanics transformed the gameplay, expanding the map's scope. With a vast monster roster and innovative gameplay features, Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate marked a significant leap forward, though it didn't quite reach the top of our list.
5. Monster Hunter Rise
Developer: Capcom | Publisher: Capcom | Release Date: March 26, 2021 | Review: IGN's Monster Hunter Rise review
Monster Hunter Rise returned the series to handhelds after the console and PC release of Monster Hunter World. Initially exclusive to the Nintendo Switch, Rise refined the series' mechanics for a more streamlined, fast-paced experience. The introduction of Palamutes—rideable dog companions—and the Wirebug mechanic enhanced mobility and added new dimensions to combat. Rise's seamless blend of action and tranquility in Kamura Village solidified its place as one of the best handheld Monster Hunter experiences.
4. Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak
Developer: Capcom | Publisher: Capcom | Release Date: June 30, 2022 | Review: IGN's Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak review
Sunbreak, the expansion for Monster Hunter Rise, introduced a new locale, the Citadel, and a host of fearsome monsters with a gothic horror theme. It enhanced the weapon system and added challenging endgame content, making an already excellent game even better. The fight against the flagship monster, Malzeno, stands out as a memorable battle, showcasing the expansion's commitment to delivering thrilling encounters.
3. Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate
Developer: Capcom | Publisher: Capcom | Release Date: August 28, 2018 | Review: IGN's Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate review
Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate serves as a tribute to the series' history, featuring an expansive roster of 93 large monsters and a robust customization suite for hunters. The introduction of Hunter Styles revolutionized combat, allowing players to tailor their playstyle extensively. With its deep customization options and a plethora of hunts, Generations Ultimate is a celebration of the series' legacy and communal joy of multiplayer hunting.
2. Monster Hunter World: Iceborne
Developer: Capcom | Publisher: Capcom | Release Date: September 6, 2019 | Review: IGN's Monster Hunter World: Iceborne review
Following the success of Monster Hunter World, Iceborne expanded the game with a new campaign and a wealth of hunts, feeling like a sequel rather than an expansion. The Guiding Lands offered a seamless integration of previous zones, enhancing the exploration aspect. New monsters like Savage Deviljho, Velkhana, and Fatalis became fan favorites, contributing to Iceborne's reputation as one of the best entries in the series.
1. Monster Hunter: World
Developer: Capcom | Publisher: Capcom | Release Date: January 26, 2018 | Review: IGN's Monster Hunter: World review
Monster Hunter: World ignited a global phenomenon, bringing the series back to consoles and reaching a broader audience than ever before. Its expansive open zones and dynamic ecosystem created an immersive world where tracking and hunting felt exhilarating. From the lush jungles to the towering cliffs of the Coral Highlands, World's diverse environments and meticulously crafted monsters provided a breathtaking adventure. Enhanced by high-quality cutscenes and a compelling story, Monster Hunter: World stands as a landmark game, not just within the series, but in gaming as a whole.
The 10 Best Monster Hunter Games
That's our ranking of the 10 best Monster Hunter games of all time. Which ones have you played, and which do you think are the best? Tell us your ranking in the Tier List above. Will you be preparing to hunt again with the release of Monster Hunter Wilds? Let us know in the comments.
