The highly anticipated Monster Hunter Wilds is now available on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC, following in the footsteps of its predecessor, Monster Hunter World, and the expansive Iceborne update. But how long does it take to experience everything this latest entry has to offer? In this article, we’ll dive into the time different members of the IGN team spent completing the main story, their focus during gameplay, and their engagement with the postgame activities.
Tom Marks - Executive Reviews Editor, Games
I completed the campaign of Monster Hunter Wilds in just under **15 hours**, marking the end of the story in the Low Rank section. Unlike Monster Hunter Rise, where the first credit roll comes at roughly the midpoint of the story, Wilds' credits signify the actual end of the narrative. However, this is just the beginning, as High Rank awaits with numerous side quests and challenging hunts.
It took me an additional **15 hours** to complete nearly all High Rank quests and reach what I consider the true endgame. By this point, I had battled every available monster, unlocked all the initial crafting systems, and explored the new Artian weapon customization. The streamlined grind in Wilds allowed me to optimize my preferred weapons and armor set in just another five hours, though there's much more to achieve across other weapon types.
Casey DeFreitas - Deputy Editor, Guides
I reached the final "story" mission in High Rank at around **40 hours**, approximately **22 hours after seeing the credits for Low Rank**. My time may not be entirely precise due to periods spent idling in menus for guide creation. During the Low Rank phase, I focused primarily on crafting with available materials and advancing without repeating hunts. In High Rank, I ventured into optional monster hunts and multiplayer sessions, which are necessary to unlock further Story Missions.
I only deviated from the main path once to upgrade my weapon by hunting an Ajarakan. If I had more time, I would have aimed for a more refined armor and weapon set, potentially increasing my total playtime to around 60 hours. My postgame plans include catching endemic life, fishing, and completing remaining Side Missions. I also look forward to farming specific monsters for Talisman upgrades, crafting new armor, and experimenting with Artian weapons. Additionally, I plan to replay the story with friends while learning new weapons, not to mention participating in upcoming event quests and title updates.
Simon Cardy - Senior Editorial Producer
I finished the main story of Monster Hunter Wilds in just under **16 hours**, which was unexpectedly quick compared to my 25-hour journey in Monster Hunter World without reaching the end. As a relative newcomer to the series, I found the battles more manageable, though I did faint a few times against apex predators. The game's design seems tailored to be more welcoming to new players, with simplified mechanics like elemental strengths and weaknesses, crafting, and tracking.
The pacing, with a steady flow of story cutscenes interspersed with monster battles, contributed to the shorter runtime. While I appreciated the swift progression to the story's conclusion, I felt it might have sacrificed some of the traditional Monster Hunter experience. However, the post-game promises to deliver the depth and challenge fans expect.
Jada Griffin - Community Lead
It took me about **20 hours** to see the initial credits in Monster Hunter Wilds. Most of this time was spent on optional and side quests, with some time dedicated to exploring the game's world, hunting endemic life, and customizing my gameplay experience.
I completed all High Rank missions and side quests in an additional **15 hours**, encountering all the monsters available post-credits. Since then, I've accumulated nearly **70 hours** in the post-game, enjoying activities like hunting with friends, decoration farming, and pursuing monster crowns. I'm excited about the future title updates that will add more monsters to the game.
Ronny Barrier - Producer, Guides
I reached the first credits in Monster Hunter Wilds after about **20 hours**. My focus was primarily on the main story, though I did take time to craft a couple of armor sets and experiment with different weapons, particularly enjoying the Switch Axe.
Currently, I'm at **65 hours** of gameplay and still see plenty of content ahead. The story feels like an extended tutorial, setting the stage for the real adventure. I'm eager to continue hunting, discovering new monsters, and crafting new gear, though I could do without encountering Congalala again.
