During the beta period of Monster Hunter Wilds, many players felt that certain weapons were underwhelming, leading to discussions about the game’s combat mechanics. Notably, a user on Twitter named Axelayer pointed out that the combat felt “off” for a reason. By comparing gameplay footage from Monster Hunter: World to that of Wilds, Axelayer discovered a significant factor contributing to this perception: the reduction or complete removal of hitstop.
Hitstop is the brief pause that occurs when a weapon lands a powerful attack, which emphasizes the weight and impact of the strike. The diminished hitstop across various weapon types in Wilds has led to some players feeling that the weapons lack the same weighty feedback experienced in previous entries.
Axelayer provided detailed evidence of this phenomenon, including a video comparison that highlights the changes in hitstop for specific weapons. For instance, the Switch Axe’s Overhead Chop attack displayed a hitstop duration of about a fourth of a second in Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate and a similar duration in Monster Hunter Rise.
In Monster Hunter: World, the hitstop was slightly reduced to a fifth of a second, but in Wilds, it was eliminated altogether. This absence of hitstop has resulted in a combat experience that feels less satisfying for players who are accustomed to the more pronounced feedback of earlier games.
The reduction of hitstop has broader implications for the overall combat feel in Monster Hunter Wilds. As Axelayer explains, hitstop contributes significantly to the sensation of a powerful strike. The pause following a strong swing enhances the perception that an opponent has taken a substantial hit.
Without this pause, attacks may feel less impactful, leading to a combat experience that some players find lacking. The absence of a hitstop means that many weapons can feel “limp,” diminishing the overall excitement and effectiveness of combat animations.
Despite the criticisms regarding the reduction of hitstop, there are mixed opinions within the community. Some players appreciate the changes, arguing that the overall flow of combat has improved. This perspective suggests that while the feedback from weapon strikes may have lessened, the fluidity of combat in Wilds could provide a different type of enjoyment. These varying opinions highlight the subjective nature of gameplay experiences and the importance of individual preferences in evaluating game mechanics.
It is essential to remember that the observations regarding hitstop are based on the beta version of Monster Hunter Wilds, and the final game could differ significantly. Capcom has indicated that they are aware of player feedback and are working to improve the game ahead of its full release. As such, there is potential for changes that may address the concerns raised about the combat mechanics, ensuring that the final product meets player expectations and delivers a satisfying hunting experience.
