The 10 Best Monster Hunter Games

For two decades, Capcom's *Monster Hunter* series has captivated players with its thrilling blend of strategic combat and intense monster battles. From its PlayStation 2 debut in 2004 to the chart-topping success of *Monster Hunter World* in 2018, the series has undergone a remarkable evolution. Each *Monster Hunter* game boasts its own unique charm, but we've ranked the entire series, including major DLC, to crown the ultimate champion. Note: This ranking considers only the "Ultimate" versions where applicable.

Let the hunt begin!

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 franchise's future. While its somewhat obtuse controls and instructions might feel dated today, the core elements that define the series are undeniably present. Confronting colossal beasts with only your weapon and wits was revolutionary in 2004, even if the steep learning curve proved challenging. Developed as a PlayStation 2 online game, its online event missions were a key focus. Although official servers are offline outside Japan, the single-player experience remains a testament to the series' origins.

9. Monster Hunter Freedom

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

Released on the PlayStation Portable, Monster Hunter Freedom (a refined version of Monster Hunter G) marked the series' first foray into handheld gaming. This portability proved pivotal, introducing Monster Hunter to a wider audience and emphasizing cooperative gameplay. Despite clunky controls and a less-than-ideal camera, Freedom remains enjoyable and historically significant, paving the way for future handheld entries.

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, Freedom Unite was the series' largest game at launch. It introduced memorable monsters like Nargacuga and, for the first time, featured Felyne companions on the battlefield, enhancing the overall experience.

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

Building upon Monster Hunter Tri, Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate refined the story and difficulty, adding new monsters and quests. The return of the Hunting Horn, Bow, Gunlance, and Dual Blades, absent in Tri, provided a more comprehensive weapon selection. Underwater combat added variety, though the camera presented some challenges. While online multiplayer on the Wii U wasn't as advanced, its inclusion was crucial to the Monster Hunter experience.

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 marked a turning point with the introduction of dedicated online multiplayer, transcending geographical limitations. 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

Monster Hunter Rise returned the series to handhelds after Monster Hunter World. Building on console experiences, it offered streamlined features and faster-paced gameplay. Palamutes (rideable canine companions) and the Wirebug mechanic, enabling acrobatic maneuvers, significantly enhanced mobility and combat.

4. Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak

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

Sunbreak, a massive expansion, introduced a new location, formidable monsters, and a revised weapon system. Its gothic atmosphere and challenging endgame hunts elevated Rise's already impressive experience.

3. Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate

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

Generations Ultimate is a culmination of the series' previous decade, boasting the largest monster roster (93 large monsters). Hunter Styles dramatically altered gameplay with unique weapon movesets, offering unparalleled customization.

2. Monster Hunter World: Iceborne

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

Iceborne, a substantial expansion to World, feels like a full sequel. The Guiding Lands provided a seamless blend of previous zones, and numerous quality-of-life improvements were added. New monsters like Savage Deviljho, Velkhana, and Fatalis are considered among the series' best.

1. Monster Hunter: World

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

Monster Hunter: World catapulted the series to global recognition. Its expansive open zones and thrilling hunts, showcasing a sophisticated ecosystem, created an unparalleled sense of scale and immersion. The diverse environments and unique monsters, along with improved story presentation, solidified its place as a top-tier video game.

The 10 Best Monster Hunter Games

This ranking represents our top ten Monster Hunter games. Have you played these titles? Which ones do you consider the best? Share your thoughts! Are you anticipating Monster Hunter Wilds? Let us know in the comments.