For the past 20 years, Capcom's Monster Hunter series has enthralled fans worldwide with its thrilling blend of strategic gameplay and intense monster battles. From its inception on the PlayStation 2 in 2004 to its monumental success with Monster Hunter World in 2018, the series has undergone significant evolution over the decades.
Each Monster Hunter game brings its own unique flavor to the series, but we've taken the liberty of ranking all the mainline games and their major DLCs to crown the ultimate champion. It's worth noting that our rankings focus solely on the Ultimate editions of each game, as Capcom has released multiple versions of some titles. With that in mind, 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 the series' future. While its complex controls and directions might make it challenging to revisit today, the essence of what makes Monster Hunter great was already present. Facing off against giant beasts with just a weapon and survival skills distinguished it in 2004, despite its steep learning curve. Developed to promote online gaming on the PlayStation 2, the game's focus on online event missions remains a highlight, even though official servers outside Japan are no longer active.
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, launched on the PlayStation Portable in 2005 in Japan and a year later globally, was the first handheld entry in the series. An enhanced version of Monster Hunter G, it introduced numerous quality-of-life improvements and brought Monster Hunter to a portable audience. This shift was pivotal, emphasizing co-op gameplay and connecting millions of hunters worldwide. Despite its dated controls and camera issues, Freedom remains a crucial chapter in the series' history, paving the way for future handheld titles.
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 launch. It introduced iconic monsters like the Nargacuga and the beloved Felyne companions, enhancing the hunting experience. Although challenging, the addition of these companions made the journey more enjoyable and memorable.
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
Built on the framework of 2010's Monster Hunter Tri, Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate streamlined the experience with new monsters, quests, and the return of fan-favorite weapons like the Hunting Horn and Dual Blades. The introduction of underwater combat added a fresh dynamic, though it came with camera challenges. Despite less advanced online multiplayer on the Wii U, the game's inclusion of co-op was essential, making it a standout entry in the series.
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 significant milestone, introducing dedicated online multiplayer to handheld consoles. This enabled global co-op hunting, revolutionizing the series' social aspect. The addition of Apex Monsters provided challenging endgame content, while vertical movement expanded the game's maps and gameplay. Although a major leap forward, it wasn't the pinnacle of the series.
5. Monster Hunter Rise
Developer: Capcom | Publisher: Capcom | Release Date: March 26, 2021 | Review: IGN's Monster Hunter Rise review
Returning to handhelds after the success of Monster Hunter World, Monster Hunter Rise refined the series' large-scale elements for the Nintendo Switch. The introduction of Palamutes and the Wirebug mechanic added speed and new aerial combat options, enhancing the game's pace and excitement. Rise's blend of fast-paced action and serene village life created one of the best handheld experiences in the series.
4. Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak
Developer: Capcom | Publisher: Capcom | Release Date: June 30, 2022 | Review: IGN's Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak review
Sunbreak expanded Monster Hunter Rise with a new gothic-themed location, fresh monsters, and updated weapons. While not a reinvention, it enriched the already exceptional base game. The Citadel castle and vampire-inspired monsters added a unique atmosphere, and the expansion's endgame content challenged even seasoned hunters. The climactic battle against Malzeno was a highlight, showcasing the expansion's narrative and gameplay strengths.
3. Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate
Developer: Capcom | Publisher: Capcom | Release Date: August 28, 2018 | Review: IGN's Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate review
A tribute to the past decade of Monster Hunter, Generations Ultimate offered extensive customization and the largest monster roster in the series. The Hunter Styles system revolutionized combat by providing four unique movesets for each weapon, encouraging diverse playstyles. This experimental approach, combined with countless hunts and multiplayer fun, made it a fitting celebration of the series' legacy.
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 felt like a full sequel with its expansive campaign and numerous hunts. The Guiding Lands offered a seamless blend of the best parts of World, while quality-of-life improvements enhanced the experience. New monsters like Savage Deviljho and Velkhana became fan favorites, cementing Iceborne's place as one of the series' best expansions.
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. Its large, open zones and emphasis on the thrill of hunting in a living ecosystem set it apart. From the dense jungles to the Coral Highlands, World's diverse environments and unique monsters created a breathtaking sandbox experience. Enhanced storytelling through high-quality cutscenes on home consoles added to its appeal, making it a must-play for both veterans and newcomers.
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? Share your rankings in the Tier List above. Are you gearing up for the next adventure with the release of Monster Hunter Wilds? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
