For the last 20 years, Capcom's Monster Hunter series has captivated fans with its thrilling blend of strategic gameplay and intense monster battles. From its debut on the PlayStation 2 in 2004 to the chart-topping success of Monster Hunter World in 2018, the series has undergone significant evolution over the past two decades.
Each Monster Hunter game brings something unique to the table, but we've ranked the entire series, including the major DLCs, to identify the ultimate standout. It's important to note that our rankings focus solely on the Ultimate versions of the games. 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 next 20 years of the franchise. Despite its challenging controls and steep learning curve, it introduced the core elements that define the series. The game's focus on online event missions, though no longer supported outside Japan, still offers a robust single-player experience that showcases the thrilling hunts that launched a new genre.
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 brought the series to the PlayStation Portable, expanding its reach and introducing it to a broader audience. As the first handheld entry, it included enhancements from Monster Hunter G and added quality-of-life improvements. Despite its control and camera issues, Freedom's portable nature and emphasis on co-op play were pivotal in shaping the series' future on handheld devices.
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 expanded version of Monster Hunter Freedom 2, Freedom Unite introduced iconic monsters like Nargacuga and the beloved Felyne companions. As the largest game in the series at the time of its release, it set a new standard for content and gameplay, despite its challenging encounters.
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 foundation of Monster Hunter Tri, Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate offered a more streamlined experience with new monsters, quests, and the return of several weapon types. The addition of underwater combat added variety, though it came with its own set of challenges. Despite its age, it remains a strong 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 marked a significant shift with the introduction of dedicated online multiplayer, expanding the series' reach. The addition of Apex Monsters and vertical movement transformed the gameplay, making it a pivotal entry in the series' evolution.
5. Monster Hunter Rise
Developer: Capcom | Publisher: Capcom | Release Date: March 26, 2021 | Review: IGN's Monster Hunter Rise review
Monster Hunter Rise brought the series back to handhelds with a refined experience tailored for the Nintendo Switch. The introduction of Palamutes and the Wirebug mechanic added new dimensions to movement and combat, making it one of the best handheld Monster Hunter experiences.
4. Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak
Developer: Capcom | Publisher: Capcom | Release Date: June 30, 2022 | Review: IGN's Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak review
Sunbreak expanded on Rise with new locations, monsters, and a revamped weapons system. Its gothic horror-inspired setting and challenging endgame content, including the fight against Malzeno, elevated the already excellent base game.
3. Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate
Developer: Capcom | Publisher: Capcom | Release Date: August 28, 2018 | Review: IGN's Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate review
A celebration of the series' history, Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate offered the largest monster roster and introduced Hunter Styles, allowing for deep customization and varied gameplay. It's a testament to the series' legacy and a joy to play with friends.
2. Monster Hunter World: Iceborne
Developer: Capcom | Publisher: Capcom | Release Date: September 6, 2019 | Review: IGN's Monster Hunter World: Iceborne review
Iceborne expanded on the success of Monster Hunter World with a new campaign, the Guiding Lands, and quality-of-life improvements. Its new monsters, including Savage Deviljho and Velkhana, are among the series' best, making it a near-perfect sequel.
1. Monster Hunter: World
Developer: Capcom | Publisher: Capcom | Release Date: January 26, 2018 | Review: IGN's Monster Hunter: World review
Monster Hunter: World revolutionized the series by bringing it to consoles and reaching a global audience. Its expansive open zones, dynamic ecosystem, and high-quality cutscenes created an immersive experience that stands as the pinnacle of the franchise. From the dense jungles to the Coral Highlands, World's diverse environments and engaging gameplay make 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 release of Monster Hunter Wilds? Let us know in the comments.
