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MONSTER

Monster Hunter Rise

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Monster Hunter Rise
Item: Monster Hunter Rise
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2021

GenresAdventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, RPG, Anime and JRPG, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableMar 26, 2021

PlatformXbox Series X, PC, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch

DeveloperCapcom

Overview

Rise to the challenge and join the hunt! In Monster Hunter Rise, the latest installment in the award-winning and top-selling Monster Hunter series, you’ll become a hunter, explore brand new maps and use a variety of weapons to take down fearsome monsters as part of an all-new storyline.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Monster Hunter Rise boasts a charming setting and engaging characters in Kamura Village, with thematic ties to Japanese folklore enhancing the experience. However, critics largely agree that the story is weak, minimal, and predictable, serving mainly as a backdrop for the hunting mechanics. Players looking for a rich narrative will likely be disappointed, as the game prioritizes action over depth.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

14%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

76%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

11%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The opinions of various critics on the story of Monster Hunter Rise reveal a few positive aspects that stand out amidst the overall critique. Several reviewers, including Cubed3 and TheSixthAxis, highlight the engaging nature of the characters and the village of Kamura, suggesting that the setting and NPCs contribute positively to the player's experience. The narrative, albeit simple, is noted by COGconnected to effectively motivate players to immerse themselves in the game, providing a backdrop that enhances the gameplay loop. Furthermore, some critics appreciate the thematic inspirations drawn from Japanese folklore, as mentioned by Shindig, which adds a cultural richness to the otherwise straightforward plot. However, the predominant sentiment among critics leans towards a negative evaluation of the story's depth and engagement. Many reviews, such as those from M3, Gameblog.fr, and Softpedia, describe the narrative as minimal, weak, and lacking originality, often serving merely as a backdrop for the hunting mechanics. The storyline is critiqued for its simplicity and predictability, focusing primarily on the premise of defending Kamura Village from monster attacks without offering substantial character development or plot twists. Critics like Game Informer and Jeuxvideo.com emphasize the lack of meaningful story beats, which leads to a feeling of incompleteness and disengagement from the narrative. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Monster Hunter Rise presents a charming setting and engaging characters, the story itself is largely underwhelming. The narrative is often described as a secondary aspect of the game, overshadowed by the hunting gameplay that defines the series. Reviewers such as XboxEra and GamingBolt underscore that the story serves primarily as a vehicle for gameplay rather than as a compelling narrative experience. Consequently, players seeking a rich, story-driven adventure may find themselves disappointed, as the game prioritizes action and mechanics over narrative depth.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Monster Hunter Rise has received rave reviews for its innovative gameplay, thanks to new mechanics like the Wirebug and Palamutes that boost mobility and strategy. Critics celebrate its addictive hunting loop and accessibility for newcomers, making it enjoyable for all players. However, some argue it simplifies elements from Monster Hunter World, potentially reducing challenge for veterans, and certain mechanics may feel overly safe. Despite these concerns, the game is widely seen as a major leap forward in the franchise, balancing depth and approachability, resulting in a fun experience for a diverse audience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

96%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Monster Hunter Rise has been met with overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics, highlighting a variety of new mechanics that enhance the overall experience. Many reviewers, such as GamesHub and Nintendo Life, praised the introduction of the Wirebug, which significantly alters combat dynamics by making it more mobile and fast-paced. Critics like Easy Allies and Destructoid noted that the addition of Palamutes, canine companions that assist in traversal and combat, adds a new layer of strategy and enjoyment to the game. The gameplay loop of hunting monsters, gathering materials, and crafting gear remains addictive, as emphasized by WellPlayed and Dexerto, ensuring that players remain engaged throughout their journey. Furthermore, the game’s accessibility to newcomers, as pointed out by Attack of the Fanboy and NintendoWorldReport, allows both veterans and new players to enjoy the rich content and mechanics without feeling overwhelmed. Despite the many positives, some critics did express concerns regarding certain aspects of the gameplay. IGN Adria and JeuxActu mentioned that the gameplay feels simplified compared to Monster Hunter World, which, while making it more accessible, could also lead to a less challenging experience for seasoned players. The complexity of menus and terminology was highlighted by JeuxActu as a potential barrier for newcomers, suggesting that while the game is designed to be approachable, it still retains some level of complexity that may frustrate players. Additionally, some critics, such as Easy Allies and Gaming Age, pointed out that certain mechanics, like Wirefall, may make fights feel overly safe, potentially diminishing the thrill of combat. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Monster Hunter Rise offers a highly enjoyable and engaging gameplay experience, successfully blending new mechanics with the traditional elements that fans love. The majority of reviewers, including GamingBolt and Multiplayer.it, found the game to be a significant step forward in terms of accessibility and depth, making it a worthy addition to the franchise. While there are some criticisms regarding the simplification of gameplay and the learning curve associated with its mechanics, the positives overwhelmingly outweigh the negatives, resulting in a game that is both fun and rewarding for a wide range of players.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Monster Hunter Rise dazzles with vibrant art and charming designs, earning praise for its immersive visuals on the Nintendo Switch, compared favorably to top-tier titles. However, critics highlight significant shortcomings, noting that its graphics feel more like a PS3 remaster than a modern game, particularly when stacked against Monster Hunter World. While the game's unique style enchants, technical limitations and downgrades leave many feeling it could have pushed graphical boundaries further, especially on more powerful platforms.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

66%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

32%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of Monster Hunter Rise have garnered a range of positive remarks from critics, particularly regarding its art style and aesthetic appeal. Many reviewers, including Game Rant and Nintendo Life, praised the game's vibrant environments and charming character designs, highlighting the beautiful Japanese-inspired visuals that contribute to an immersive experience. The use of the RE Engine has been noted for delivering impressive graphics on the Nintendo Switch, with Universo Nintendo even comparing the visuals to high-quality titles like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. Critics like Vooks and Cubed3 also emphasized the unique designs and attention to detail, which enhance the overall charm of the game, making it visually appealing for players. Conversely, several critics pointed out significant drawbacks in the graphics of Monster Hunter Rise, particularly when compared to its predecessor, Monster Hunter World. IGN Adria and PSX Brasil noted that the visual quality feels reminiscent of a PS3 remaster, citing low-resolution textures and a lack of visual fidelity, especially in the PC version. GamingTrend and C0Gconnected echoed these sentiments, mentioning that while the PC version offers higher frame rates, it still suffers from glitches and minimal improvements over the Switch version. Many reviewers also commented on the limitations imposed by the Nintendo Switch hardware, with GameCritics and Screen Rant noting that while the graphics are decent for the platform, they do not match the quality of previous entries in the series. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Monster Hunter Rise presents a visually appealing experience, particularly for the Nintendo Switch, but it falls short of the graphical standards set by Monster Hunter World. While the game's art direction and aesthetic have been well-received, many reviewers, including MGG and Digital Chumps, agree that the visual fidelity does not meet the expectations for a modern title, especially on more powerful platforms like the PS5 and PC. The game is praised for its charm and unique style, but the technical limitations and visual downgrades have left some critics feeling that it could have achieved more in terms of graphical quality.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Monster Hunter Rise boasts a praised sound design and soundtrack that enriches gameplay with traditional Japanese instruments and immersive 3D audio, enhancing the overall atmosphere. Critics highlight its majestic compositions but some note shortcomings in repetitiveness and limited voice acting, suggesting room for improvement. Overall, the game's audio elements successfully elevate the experience, creating a captivating backdrop for players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

78%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

21%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Monster Hunter Rise have garnered considerable praise from various critics, highlighting the game's ability to enhance the overall atmosphere and gameplay experience. Many reviewers, including God is a Geek and Destructoid, noted the gorgeous and majestic soundtrack, which features traditional Japanese instruments and blends seamlessly with the game's themes. Critics like Jeuxvideo.com emphasized the high-quality compositions that incorporate elements such as kotos and wadaikos, contributing to a rich auditory experience. The 3D audio capabilities on platforms like PS5, mentioned by Hey Poor Player and Screen Rant, further elevate immersion, allowing players to feel the environment and the presence of monsters more vividly. Additionally, charming musical moments, such as the dango chef cats' song highlighted by Twinfinite, add a delightful touch to the game's atmosphere. Despite the overall positive reception, some critics pointed out notable shortcomings in the sound design and music. CD-Action criticized the soundtrack for being minimal and repetitive, particularly in certain areas like the village of Kamura, which GRYOnline.pl echoed by mentioning the limited soundtrack that can detract from the experience. Furthermore, GamingBolt remarked on the lack of variety in voice acting, leading to a repetitive listening experience. Critics like Checkpoint Gaming and KeenGamer also expressed concerns about the cheesiness of certain voice lines, which could impact immersion for some players. These critiques suggest that while the sound design is generally strong, there are areas that could benefit from more depth and variety. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the sound design and music in Monster Hunter Rise are largely successful in enhancing the gameplay experience, with many praising the quality and cultural richness of the compositions. While some reviewers pointed out limitations in variety and immersion, the majority, including RPGamer and Game Informer, acknowledged the beautiful soundscapes that effectively complement the game's atmosphere. The positive feedback regarding the integration of traditional Japanese elements and the immersive audio experience indicates that Monster Hunter Rise has made significant strides in its audio design, creating a captivating auditory backdrop for players.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Monster Hunter Rise features a diverse voice acting selection with commendable performances in Japanese, enhancing immersion. However, the English dub is criticized for poor synchronization and repetitiveness, detracting from the experience. Many critics recommend playing in Japanese for a better narrative engagement, highlighting a significant divide in player opinions about voice acting quality.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

26%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

57%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

17%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Monster Hunter Rise has garnered a mix of opinions, with several critics highlighting the positive aspects. Many reviewers appreciate the variety of voice acting options available, including English, Japanese, and a fictional Monster Hunter language, which enhances player customization. Critics like Noisy Pixel and Vandal commend the quality of voice acting in both English and Japanese, noting that the inclusion of multiple languages contributes to the overall immersive experience. Additionally, some reviewers, such as GameMAG and Nintendo Enthusiast, have praised the performances, particularly in Japanese, which they feel align better with the game's tone and atmosphere. The option to toggle voice acting on or off, as mentioned by Gamer Escape and Checkpoint Gaming, also adds to the flexibility for players who may prefer a quieter experience. However, the criticisms surrounding the voice acting are notable and reflect a significant divide among players. Many reviewers, including IGN and COGconnected, have pointed out issues with the English voice acting, describing it as poorly dubbed and lacking synchronization with character animations. This disconnect can detract from the overall experience, as highlighted by Atomix, who noted that the English voice work is merely "passable." Additionally, some critics, such as GamingTrend and RPGamer, found the repetitive nature of character voices during battles to be annoying, which can disrupt the gameplay experience. The limited amount of voice acting, as mentioned by We Got This Covered and Games.cz, also suggests that the narrative engagement may suffer due to the infrequent use of dialogue. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Monster Hunter Rise offers a commendable range of voice acting options and some strong performances, particularly in Japanese, there are significant drawbacks that affect the English version's reception. Critics like TheGamer and PCGamesN recommend playing in Japanese for a more immersive experience, indicating a preference for the original language over the English dub. The mixed reviews reflect a broader sentiment that, despite the game's charming characters and engaging world, the voice acting quality—especially in English—leaves much to be desired, impacting the overall narrative experience for players.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Monster Hunter Rise is praised for its solid technical performance across platforms, with smooth frame rates and minimal loading times on Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X, and PS5. However, some critics noted occasional frame drops on Switch and graphical issues on PS5, while PC players reported crashes and FPS problems. Despite these hiccups, the overall consensus is positive, emphasizing stable multiplayer performance and an enjoyable gaming experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

73%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

25%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Monster Hunter Rise has garnered a largely positive reception across various gaming platforms. On the Nintendo Switch, many critics praised its stability, with Vooks and Nintendojo noting that the game runs smoothly without noticeable frame drops, even during chaotic moments like Rampage events. The performance is characterized by a stable 30fps, with minimal loading times, which was highlighted by critics such as CGMagazine and My Nintendo News. The Xbox Series X version also received commendations, with Gamers' Temple and SomosXbox reporting smooth performance and adjustable graphics settings. The PS5 version has been recognized for its fast loading times and good graphical fidelity, with Gameblog.fr and Digital Chumps remarking on the overall smooth experience it provides. However, there are some technical issues reported across platforms. On the Nintendo Switch, while many reviews are positive, some critics like Gameblog.fr and The Mako Reactor mentioned occasional frame rate drops in busy areas, which can affect gameplay. The PS5 version, despite its strengths, faced criticism from PSX Brasil for visual fidelity and graphical issues that detract from the overall experience. On PC, while IGN Adria and Movies Games and Tech noted good optimization and performance, others like GamingTrend pointed out frequent crashes and FPS problems, particularly with display settings. This inconsistency highlights the varying experiences users may have depending on their hardware and setup. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Monster Hunter Rise delivers a commendable technical performance across all platforms, with the majority finding it to be very good. While there are some noted issues, particularly on the Nintendo Switch and PC, the positives generally outweigh the negatives. Critics such as IGN Italia and Atomix emphasized that the game performs well overall, with minor technical issues not significantly detracting from the experience. The game’s ability to maintain stable performance, especially in multiplayer settings, has been a common highlight, indicating that it successfully meets the expectations of players across different gaming systems.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Monster Hunter Rise boasts strong replay value with a wealth of content and engaging multiplayer modes, praised by critics for its addictive gameplay. However, concerns about insufficient endgame challenges and repetitive quests may hinder long-term appeal for veterans. While future updates hold promise for keeping the game fresh, it currently falls short on variety for seasoned players. Great for newcomers, but veterans might want more.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

69%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

31%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Monster Hunter Rise is largely positive, with many critics highlighting the game's extensive content and engaging mechanics. Reviewers such as GamePro Germany and NintendoWorldReport emphasize the significant replay value stemming from the variety of monsters, quests, and multiplayer options available. The game’s addictive gameplay loop, as noted by Noisy Pixel and Shindig, encourages players to continuously engage with its systems, whether through solo hunts or cooperative play. Critics like GameSpot and Gamer.no also point out that the multiplayer features enhance the replayability, making the experience enjoyable both solo and with friends. The anticipation of future updates is a recurring theme, with many reviewers expressing excitement about the potential for new content to keep the game fresh and engaging. However, several critics also point out notable drawbacks that may affect the game's long-term replay value. Siliconera and MGG express concerns about the current lack of endgame content, suggesting that the game may feel limited for veteran players once the main story is completed. The repetitive nature of certain quests, particularly the Rampage mode, has been flagged by critics like Starbit and The Mako Reactor, who worry that this could lead to a decline in replayability over time. Additionally, some reviewers, such as Vandal and IGN Spain, mention that the limited number of locales and high-level content may leave players wanting more, particularly those who have experienced previous installments in the series. In conclusion, while Monster Hunter Rise presents a strong foundation for replayability through its diverse content and multiplayer capabilities, the consensus among critics indicates that it currently lacks sufficient endgame challenges and variety to fully satisfy veteran players. Critics like Gamersky and Game Informer recognize the potential for future updates to enhance replay value, but the game’s reliance on these updates and the current limitations in high-level content remain points of concern. Overall, the game is seen as a worthwhile experience, especially for newcomers, but it may require additional content to maintain its appeal for long-term players.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

95%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment regarding Monster Hunter Rise is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its engaging gameplay mechanics, innovative features, and visual enhancements. Reviewers like NintendoWorldReport and GamingTrend highlight the game's successful blend of classic elements with new mechanics, making it appealing to both newcomers and veterans alike. Critics such as PCGamesN and Nintendo Life commend the beautifully realized setting and the fun gameplay that persists throughout the experience. Furthermore, the introduction of new traversal tools and quality-of-life improvements has been well-received, with Gamer Escape noting that the game exceeds expectations and is considered one of the best on the Nintendo Switch. However, there are notable criticisms that temper the overall enthusiasm. Some reviewers, like IGN France and MGG, point out that the game may disappoint veterans due to its lack of challenge and post-game content. Additionally, We Got This Covered mentions multiplayer connectivity issues and visibility problems in handheld mode as significant drawbacks. The PC version, while praised by some like The Mako Reactor for its improvements, also faces criticism from GamingTrend for technical issues that detract from the experience. Furthermore, several critics, including GamesBeat and IGN Japan, mention a lack of depth in the narrative and content at launch, which could affect long-term engagement. Despite these criticisms, the consensus among critics is that Monster Hunter Rise is a notable entry in the franchise and a must-play for fans of action RPGs. The game is often described as a strong addition to the series, with Gfinity and Hardcore Gamer labeling it as one of the best titles on the Switch. Reviewers agree that the gameplay improvements and engaging world make it a worthwhile experience, even if it may not reach the heights of Monster Hunter World for some. Overall, the game is highly recommended, with critics like PCMag and GamingBolt emphasizing its appeal to both new and returning players, solidifying its place as a significant title in the Monster Hunter series.

TL;DR

Monster Hunter Rise is largely celebrated for its engaging gameplay, innovative mechanics, and visual upgrades, making it appealing to both newcomers and veterans. Critics praise its beautiful setting and fun mechanics, with many hailing it as a top Nintendo Switch title. However, some veterans may find it lacking in challenge and post-game content, and there are noted technical issues and multiplayer connectivity problems. Despite these drawbacks, the game is considered a solid addition to the franchise and is highly recommended for action RPG fans.

MONSTER

Reviews

311 reviews found

100

Gamer Escape

Nintendo Switch

Apr 6, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Monster Hunter Rise exceeds expectations, providing a fun and engaging experience that appeals to both veterans and newcomers. It is considered one of the best games on the Switch.

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100

Vooks

Nintendo Switch

Mar 23, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Monster Hunter Rise is hailed as the best game in the series, combining the best elements of previous titles with new features, making it a must-play for fans and newcomers alike.

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100

GameSkinny

Nintendo Switch

Apr 6, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Monster Hunter Rise is seen as one of the easiest yet most flexible and satisfying entries in the series, deserving high praise despite its unfinished story.

100

Gfinity

Nintendo Switch

Mar 29, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review states that Monster Hunter Rise is the best Monster Hunter game and praises its new additions on top of the solid foundation of Monster Hunter World.

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100

Gaming Age

PlayStation 5

Jan 25, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review recommends checking out either the PS5 or Xbox versions of Monster Hunter Rise and mentions that the Sunbreak DLC is scheduled for release later this year.

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100

Screen Rant

Jan 10, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Monster Hunter Rise on PC excels in visuals, performance, controls, and content, making it hard to go back to the Switch version. One of the best games of 2021.

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100

Shindig

Nintendo Switch

Mar 24, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Monster Hunter Rise is praised for its innovative level design, mobility, and Japanese cultural inspirations, marking it as a high point in the series and a must-play for fans.

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100

Switch Player

Nintendo Switch

Mar 23, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Monster Hunter Rise is hailed as the best Monster Hunter game on a Nintendo platform, offering a thrilling and satisfying action experience. The game is praised for its improvements in gameplay, visuals, and content, making it a strong contender for the best game on the Switch.

100

God is a Geek

Jan 10, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Monster Hunter Rise on PC is described as the definitive version, offering a solid, complete experience with improved performance and a wealth of content.

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100

Universo Nintendo

Nintendo Switch

May 8, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Monster Hunter Rise is deemed a perfect game for both franchise fans and action RPG enthusiasts, successfully renewing the classic formula while maintaining its core elements.

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