The 10 Best Monster Hunter Games

Capcom's Monster Hunter franchise, a thrilling blend of strategic planning and intense monster battles, has captivated gamers for two decades. From its 2004 PlayStation 2 debut to the chart-topping success of Monster Hunter World in 2018, the series has undergone significant evolution. This ranking considers only the "Ultimate" versions of each game to ensure a fair comparison.

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 laid the groundwork for the series' future. While its controls and instructions may feel dated, the core gameplay remains engaging. Confronting colossal beasts with limited resources was groundbreaking in 2004, despite its challenging learning curve. Though its online servers are defunct outside Japan, the single-player experience retains its appeal as the genesis of the genre.

9. Monster Hunter Freedom

• Developer: Capcom Production Studio 1
• Publisher: Capcom
• Release Date: May 23, 2006 (NA)
• Review: IGN's Monster Hunter Freedom review

The first portable Monster Hunter title, released on the PlayStation Portable, expanding upon Monster Hunter G. Freedom's portability broadened the series' reach, emphasizing cooperative gameplay and connecting players globally. Despite its less-refined controls and camera, it remains significant for its impact on the franchise.

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, introducing memorable monsters like Nargacuga and the beloved Felyne companions. Its sheer size and the addition of these elements made it a landmark entry.

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

A refined version of Monster Hunter Tri, featuring a streamlined story, enhanced difficulty, new monsters, and the return of several weapon types. Underwater combat added variety, though camera control remained a minor challenge. Its cooperative multiplayer, a series staple, solidified its place.

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

A pivotal moment, introducing dedicated online multiplayer, removing geographical limitations for cooperative hunts. Apex Monsters provided challenging endgame content, and vertical movement expanded gameplay possibilities.

5. Monster Hunter Rise

• Developer: Capcom
• Publisher: Capcom
• Release Date: March 26, 2021
• Review: IGN's Monster Hunter Rise review

A return to handhelds, incorporating lessons learned from console development. Palamutes (rideable canine companions) and the Wirebug mechanic enhanced mobility and combat, creating a faster-paced experience.

4. Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak

• Developer: Capcom
• Publisher: Capcom
• Release Date: June 30, 2022
• Review: IGN's Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak review

A substantial expansion, adding a gothic-themed location, challenging monsters, and a refined weapon system. The final battle against Malzeno is a highlight.

3. Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate

• Developer: Capcom
• Publisher: Capcom
• Release Date: August 28, 2018
• Review: IGN's Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate review

Featuring the largest monster roster in the series (93 large monsters) and Hunter Styles, radically altering gameplay. Its extensive customization options and diverse monster selection make it a standout.

2. Monster Hunter World: Iceborne

• Developer: Capcom
• Publisher: Capcom
• Release Date: September 6, 2019
• Review: IGN's Monster Hunter World: Iceborne review

A massive expansion to Monster Hunter: World, adding a substantial campaign, numerous hunts, and quality-of-life improvements. The Guiding Lands and new monsters like Savage Deviljho and Velkhana are noteworthy additions.

1. Monster Hunter: World

• Developer: Capcom
• Publisher: Capcom
• Release Date: January 26, 2018
• Review: IGN's Monster Hunter: World review

This title catapulted the series to global recognition. Its expansive open zones, emphasis on monster tracking and hunting, and immersive ecosystem design set it apart. The improved story and high-quality cutscenes enhanced the overall experience.

This ranking represents a subjective assessment. Your personal preferences may differ. What are your top Monster Hunter games?