Monster Hunter Wilds' Title Update 2 is just four days away, and it might breathe new life into Capcom’s latest entry in their best-selling franchise. With the return of Lagiacrus and another fan-favorite monster, we could see a surge of new players heading out for their first hunts.
But one question continues to linger among the community, both for newcomers and even longtime veterans: Should you capture or slay monsters? Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:
The Benefits of Slaying Monsters
There have always been benefits to slaying monsters in the Monster Hunter series. In previous titles like Monster Hunter World and Rise, breaking specific monster parts often gave a better chance of obtaining rare materials. This was mostly done via Slaying quests, as the hunt is longer with more time to break a monster's part.
In Monster Hunter Wilds, slaying monsters rewards you with three extra carves. If you’ve eaten a meal that grants Carving Pro, you can gain even more, increasing your odds of getting the monster parts you’re looking for.
Aside from the loot, many hunters simply enjoy the satisfaction of seeing a monster fall in dramatic fashion. Back in the day, there was even an unwritten “golden rule” among hunters: don’t capture unless the quest giver specifically calls for it. That sentiment has waned over the years, but it still lives on in the hearts of traditionalists.
The Benefits of Capturing Monsters
If you’re tired of chasing a wounded monster for the fifth time in a single hunt, capturing becomes a very appealing alternative. Before Wilds streamlined monster difficulty and pacing, capturing was actually one of the best ways to maximize rewards. This was especially true during the Monster Hunter Rise era.
In Wilds, the difference between capturing and slaying isn’t as stark anymore. However, capturing does offer one key benefit: speed. It can shave a few minutes off your hunt, which is crucial when time (or your remaining carts) is running low. It’s also a smart fallback when you’re down to your last chance before a mission fails.
Many players now opt to capture simply to get the job done faster, particularly with tougher targets like the 8-Star Gore Magala.
So, Which One’s Better?
Honestly? In Monster Hunter Wilds, there’s not much advantage to choosing one over the other. Capcom’s efforts to make the game more accessible have streamlined many of the older systems, which unfortunately means the unique rewards for capturing or slaying have lost some of their weight.
Maybe in future title updates, Capcom can find a way to make the two approaches feel distinct again. After all, Elder Dragons, which are immune to captures, are expected to make their appearance down the line. Plus, Arch-Tempered Monsters are a first taste of a pure “Slaying” quest as well.
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