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Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak

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

2022

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

AvailableJun 30, 2022

PlatformPC, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X, PlayStation 5

DeveloperCapcom

Overview

Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak is an expansion to the original Monster Hunter Rise. Featuring improved gameplay and nimble-feeling additions to combat mechanics, unique new monsters and hunting locales, and a new difficulty level in the form of Master Rank quests. As the hunter who saved Kamura from calamity, you must now journey to the far-off reaches of Elgado, an outpost near a Kingdom beset by a sinister new nemesis—the elder dragon Malzeno!

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak impresses with character development and new elements, earning praise for its engaging NPCs and expanded lore. However, critics point out that the story remains shallow, often feeling like a mere backdrop for gameplay rather than a compelling narrative. While characters shine, the overall plot lacks depth and originality, sticking to franchise norms. In summary, it’s a fun experience bolstered by charm, but doesn't break new ground in storytelling.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

51%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

49%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The critical reception of the story in Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak reveals a mix of appreciation for its character development and the introduction of new elements, alongside a recognition of its limitations. Many reviewers, such as GAMES.CH and Game Revolution, commend the expansion for introducing a new storyline that adds depth to the game world, particularly through the royal order and the kingdom of Elgado. Critics like Hardcore Gamer highlight the memorable character names and interactions, which enhance player investment in the narrative. The inclusion of NPC allies, or "Followers," as noted by Everyeye.it and Gamer Escape, is also praised for adding depth to the single-player experience and enhancing storytelling without disrupting gameplay. However, a significant number of critics express disappointment regarding the overall depth and excitement of the story. GamersRD and Gaming Age point out that while the expansion continues the narrative from the base game, it often feels thin and serves primarily as a backdrop for the gameplay rather than a compelling story in its own right. Critics like Dexerto and PC Gamer emphasize that the narrative lacks impact and depth, often feeling like a standard Monster Hunter plot without significant twists or unpredictability. This sentiment is echoed by multiple reviewers who describe the story as "nothing special" or "standard," suggesting that while the characters may be likable, the overarching narrative does not break new ground. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak offers engaging character interactions and a continuation of the game's lore, it ultimately adheres to the series' tradition of minimal narrative focus. Reviewers like Eurogamer Italy and Nintendo Life acknowledge the new challenges and characters but note that the story primarily serves as a vehicle for gameplay rather than a captivating narrative. The expansion is appreciated for its character charm and improved storytelling elements, yet many critics agree that it does not significantly elevate the narrative experience beyond what players have come to expect from the franchise.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak has garnered rave reviews for its enhanced gameplay, featuring dynamic mechanics like the Switch Skill Swap and challenging new Master Rank monsters that elevate the combat experience. Critics appreciate the introduction of AI companions for added depth, though some highlight minor issues such as potential repetition and performance hiccups. Despite these drawbacks, the expansion is praised for its strategic richness and evolution of the series, making it a must-play for fans and newcomers alike.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

98%

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: Sunbreak has been met with overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics, highlighting several enhancements that contribute to a more engaging and strategic combat experience. Many reviewers, such as Jeuxvideo.com and Game Informer, praised the introduction of new mechanics like the Switch Skill Swap, which allows players to customize their combat style dynamically during missions. This feature, along with the addition of Master Rank content and challenging new monsters, has been noted by critics like Screen Rant and NME, who emphasize the increased difficulty and excitement in battles. Quality of life improvements, such as the ability to recruit AI companions in Follower Quests, have also been well-received, with GameGrin and PC Games noting that these companions add depth and variety to gameplay. Despite the overall acclaim, some critics pointed out a few drawbacks in the gameplay experience. For instance, Movies Games and Tech mentioned that while the Skill Swap mechanic adds depth, it can be easily forgotten mid-battle, potentially detracting from the fluidity of combat. Additionally, CD-Action and Game Revolution noted that while the gameplay retains the essence of the original Monster Hunter Rise, it can feel repetitive as players climb the ranks. There were also mentions of performance issues and a perceived lack of new monster encounters at launch, as highlighted by CD-Action and The Mako Reactor, which could impact the freshness of the gameplay experience for some players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak successfully builds upon its predecessor, offering a rich and varied gameplay experience that is both challenging and rewarding. The majority of reviews reflect a strong appreciation for the new mechanics, enhanced combat systems, and the depth added by AI companions and customizable abilities. Critics like Easy Allies and Hardcore Gamer encapsulated this sentiment, noting that the expansion feels like a significant evolution of the series while maintaining the core elements that fans love. With a robust array of new content and gameplay improvements, Sunbreak stands out as a commendable addition to the Monster Hunter franchise, appealing to both veterans and newcomers alike.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak dazzles with vibrant environments and intricate monster designs, earning widespread acclaim for its artistic visuals, especially in new European-inspired settings. Critics praise the detailed locales and creature designs, enhancing gameplay immersion. However, some noted minor issues like lower detail in spots and frame rate drops on Nintendo Switch. Overall, the game excels in visuals, creating an engaging world despite a few technical hiccups.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

83%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

17%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the graphics and visual design of Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak is overwhelmingly positive, with numerous critics praising the game's vibrant environments and intricate monster designs. Reviewers such as GAMES.CH and Generación Xbox highlighted the visually appealing new areas and the artistic improvements that shine in the European-inspired setting. Critics like GamersRD and GamingTrend noted the impressive creature designs and the detailed environments, particularly in the new hunting locales like the Citadel and the Jungle. The transition from a Japanese Edo aesthetic to a European colonial one was seen as a fresh and exciting change, with critics such as PC Games and Atomix commending the immersive and well-designed visuals that enhance the overall gameplay experience. However, not all feedback was entirely positive. Some critics pointed out minor issues, such as a lack of innovative content and lower detail in certain areas compared to previous titles in the series. MGG mentioned criticisms regarding the graphics, while Hey Poor Player noted that there were instances of lower detail compared to other games in the franchise. Additionally, The Mako Reactor raised concerns about struggles to maintain frame rates during busy fights on the Nintendo Switch, indicating some technical limitations that could detract from the visual experience. Despite these criticisms, the overall aesthetic and design choices were still appreciated. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak delivers a visually impressive experience that successfully builds upon its predecessor. The majority of reviewers, including GameSpew and Nintendo Life, emphasized the game's stunning visuals, detailed environments, and fantastic monster designs, reinforcing the notion that the graphics and visual design are a strong point of the game. While there are some criticisms regarding technical performance and minor visual inconsistencies, the overall reception is that the game excels in creating a vibrant and engaging world that enhances the hunting experience.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak is a standout in sound design and music, earning rave reviews for its "outstandingly brilliant" soundtrack, especially the Elgado Outpost theme. Critics unanimously praise the captivating creature sounds and orchestral compositions that elevate gameplay and enhance the game's atmosphere. While minor critiques on dialogue localization exist, they don’t overshadow the acclaim for the audio experience, which is hailed as integral and emotionally impactful, solidifying its place in the Monster Hunter franchise.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

90%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

10%

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: Sunbreak have garnered overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics, highlighting the game's exceptional auditory experience. GamingTrend praises the "outstandingly brilliant" soundtrack, particularly noting the Elgado Outpost theme, which sets a high standard for the game's musicality. Similarly, Gamer Escape commends the solid tracks that accompany various areas and new monster themes, enhancing the overall hunting experience. Critics like Atomix and Hardcore Gamer echo this sentiment, with Atomix emphasizing the impressive creature sounds and captivating musical compositions that elevate gameplay. Nintendo Life and Vandal also contribute to the chorus of praise, calling the soundtrack phenomenal and exceptional, respectively, with Vandal specifically noting the epic and orchestral compositions that resonate throughout the game. While the majority of reviews are positive, there are some minor critiques worth mentioning. VG247's focus on the localization and translation of dialogue, while commendable, indicates that the emphasis on sound design may not be as universally appreciated across all aspects of the game. However, this critique does not detract from the overall sentiment regarding the music and sound design. The reviews do not highlight any significant flaws or shortcomings in the sound design; instead, they primarily focus on the strengths, suggesting that the music and sound effects are well-crafted and integral to the gameplay experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak excels in sound design and music, with the majority praising its contributions to the game's atmosphere and engagement. The collective opinions from various sources, including NintendoWorldReport's acknowledgment of the orchestral leanings in new music and RPGamer's note on the emotional impact of the ending song, reinforce the idea that the audio experience is a standout feature of the game. Critics unanimously agree that the soundtrack not only enhances the gameplay but also enriches the emotional landscape of the game, making it a significant aspect of the Monster Hunter franchise that continues to impress.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

voice acting

Description unavailable

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak shines on Xbox Series X and PS5 with smooth 60 fps and quick load times, but the PC version suffers from bugs and crashes, despite impressive graphics. The Nintendo Switch delivers decent performance but struggles with technical issues. Overall, while the game excels on most platforms, players should choose wisely for the best experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

52%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

48%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak has garnered a largely positive reception across various gaming platforms. On the Xbox Series X, Generación Xbox praises the game for its stable performance, maintaining 60 fps and reaching up to 4K resolution, which showcases the console's capabilities. The PlayStation 5 also receives commendations, with critics like GameSpew and GamingTrend noting smooth frame rates and quick load times, while The Mako Reactor highlights the positive online experience with fast matchmaking. The PC version is celebrated for its graphical enhancements and additional settings, as mentioned by Gamer Escape and PC Gamer, who noted excellent performance on a GTX 1070. The PC version also offers features like Ultrawide monitor support and Nvidia DLSS, which enhance the overall gaming experience. However, there are notable negatives across the platforms. The PC version, while praised for its performance, has been marred by bugs and performance issues, as reported by GameGrin, which encountered frame drops and crashes during gameplay. Critics like ZTGD also reported crashes and potential save data loss, which raises concerns about stability. On the Nintendo Switch, while some critics like Nintendo Life and Vandal noted solid performance in both docked and handheld modes, others pointed out technical issues, such as random muting and performance limitations, as mentioned by IGN Italia and TierraGamer. The Mako Reactor also indicated that the Switch version does not compare favorably to the PC version in terms of performance. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak performs admirably across most platforms, with the Xbox Series X and PS5 leading in terms of stability and smooth gameplay. However, the PC version's performance is mixed due to reported bugs, while the Nintendo Switch version, despite some impressive feats, struggles with technical limitations. Critics like The Mako Reactor and Gamer Escape highlight the differences in performance across platforms, indicating that while the game excels in many areas, it is essential for players to consider their platform of choice for the best experience.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak scores high on replay value, impressing critics with its rich content, new monsters, and challenging quests. The addition of Master Rank and Anomaly quests keeps gameplay fresh and engaging, bolstered by promises of ongoing updates. However, some fans feel the novelty may wane, citing repetitiveness and a lack of a random endgame mode as drawbacks. Overall, the expansion is hailed as a strong enhancement to the Monster Hunter experience, ensuring lasting enjoyment for both new and veteran players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

71%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

29%

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: Sunbreak is predominantly positive, with many critics praising the expansion for its substantial content and engaging gameplay. Reviewers like Game Informer and Gamer Escape highlight the wealth of new monsters, quests, and customization options that cater to both newcomers and veterans of the series. The introduction of Master Rank quests and Anomaly quests adds layers of challenge and depth, as noted by Hardcore Gamer and NME, further enhancing the replayability for dedicated players. Additionally, the promise of ongoing title updates and free content, as mentioned by Everyeye.it and We Got This Covered, contributes to the anticipation of long-term engagement with the game. Despite the generally favorable reception, some critics express concerns about certain aspects of the game's replay value. For instance, Game Rant mentions that die-hard fans may find the content lacking in novelty compared to the base game, while IGN Italia points out the potential for repetitiveness over time. Several reviewers, including Press Start Australia and CD-Action, note that while the expansion offers extensive gameplay, some tasks can feel mundane and may lead to a sense of grind. The lack of a true random endgame mode, as highlighted by Jeuxvideo.com, is also seen as a missed opportunity to diversify the gameplay experience further. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak offers a robust replay value that is particularly appealing to fans of the franchise. While some reviewers highlight minor drawbacks such as repetitiveness and the need for more innovative content, the overwhelming majority agree that the expansion provides a wealth of new challenges and experiences. Critics like VGC and Nintendo Life emphasize that the combination of new monsters, quests, and the introduction of mechanics like Switch Skill Swap make it a compelling addition to the series. Overall, Sunbreak is viewed as a worthy expansion that successfully enriches the Monster Hunter experience, ensuring that players will find plenty to enjoy long after the initial playthrough.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

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OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

92%

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: Sunbreak among critics is predominantly positive, highlighting its status as a significant and enriching expansion to the original game. Many reviewers, such as those from IGN Italia and Nintendo Life, emphasize the expansion's successful enhancement of core gameplay mechanics, introducing new monsters, challenges, and quality-of-life improvements. Critics like Gaming Age and Easy Allies laud the expansion for providing substantial content, with Easy Allies describing it as an "exceedingly excellent expansion" that captivates both new players and veterans alike. The addition of new gameplay mechanics and the engaging experience of battling formidable creatures are frequently noted as standout features, with several reviewers, including GameGrin and PC Gamer, appreciating the depth and richness of the gameplay. However, the reviews are not without their critiques. Some critics, such as Game Rant and Game Revolution, express concerns that the expansion may feel more like additional content for the endgame rather than a fully realized expansion, suggesting a slower start that may deter some players. Additionally, CGMagazine points out that the price tag might be steep for the amount of content provided, while NME mentions pacing issues that could affect the overall experience. Critics like Screen Rant and GameGrin also note that the game does not present a challenge until later stages, which could lead to a less engaging experience for players seeking immediate excitement. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly favorable, with Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak being deemed a must-have for fans of the franchise. Critics such as Cubed3 and Power Unlimited strongly recommend the expansion, praising its engaging gameplay and the wealth of new content it offers. While some concerns regarding pacing and pricing exist, they do not significantly detract from the overall enjoyment and value of the expansion. The majority of reviewers agree that Sunbreak successfully builds upon the foundation of the original game, making it a worthwhile addition for both new and returning players, as noted by GamesHub and VGC.

TL;DR

Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak receives largely positive reviews, celebrated as a rich and engaging expansion with new monsters and gameplay enhancements. Critics praise its depth and content, although some note it may feel more like endgame material with pacing issues and a steep price. Overall, it's deemed a must-have for fans, offering substantial value despite minor critiques.

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Reviews

145 reviews found

100

Gamer Escape

Jul 19, 2022

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

Highly recommended as a must-play for fans of the franchise, offering significant value with new content and improvements, making it the best time to get into the Monster Hunter universe.

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100

GamesHub

Jul 12, 2022

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

Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak is a phenomenal expansion that refines the gameplay and provides the end-game content that was lacking in the base game.

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100

The Mako Reactor

PlayStation 5

Apr 25, 2023

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

The review states that Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak on PS5 is one of Capcom's best games and offers a better deal for those who skipped the base game.

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100

VG247

Jun 29, 2022

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

The review concludes that Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak is an essential expansion for any Monster Hunter fan and may be the best entry point for newcomers to the series. It acknowledges the high price of the expansion but states that it offers a suite of content that justifies the cost.

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100

Hey Poor Player

Nintendo Switch

Jul 11, 2022

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

Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak is described as everything the reviewer could have asked for, enhancing the base game significantly.

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100

Gaming Age

Jul 7, 2022

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

Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak is more of what you already know and love from the game, providing further functionality to existing weapons and new monsters.

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The Mako Reactor

Nintendo Switch

Jul 5, 2022

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

Despite technical issues, the reviewer considers Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak as their favorite Nintendo Switch game in years, praising the expansion for delivering in every way and expressing excitement for future updates.

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Dexerto

Jun 29, 2022

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

Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak is praised as a triumph, offering a rewarding action-RPG experience with a 9.5/10 rating.

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Multiplayer.it

Nintendo Switch

Jul 26, 2022

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

Sunbreak impresses with its vast content, balanced gameplay, and refined mechanics, recommended for both new and nostalgic players of the series.

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