In anticipation of the launch of Monster Hunter Wilds, Capcom organized an Open Beta Test for the game back in November 2024. The test was rolled out for an entire week on all current-generation platforms and came with the appealing price tag of zero dollars. Given the immense popularity of the Monster Hunter franchise, it was hardly a shocker that the event saw a massive turnout. On Steam alone, more than 460,000 players logged in concurrently, making it one of the most popular games on the platform during that period. Though these numbers don’t precisely predict how successful the game will be upon release, especially since it was a free beta, they clearly indicate the high level of excitement surrounding the game.
Not everyone had the chance to dive into the Monster Hunter Wilds beta as it was available for only a limited time. Thankfully, Capcom has announced another chance for eager players, with a second Open Beta Test scheduled for next month across two separate sessions. The first part will take place from February 6 to February 9, while the second will run from February 13 to February 16. This new round of testing will drop just a few weeks before Monster Hunter Wilds officially hits the shelves for PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC on February 28. Plus, Capcom has revealed additional details about what participants can expect during the event.
In this upcoming beta, players will get to experience a glimpse of content from the base game. Much like the first beta session, this time-limited event will offer a short tutorial, an opening cinematic, and the opportunity to go on Ray Dau and Doshaguma Hunts. The in-depth character creator from Monster Hunter Wilds will also be accessible. However, characters created in the beta won’t carry over to the final game, but players can save their character designs and import them once the game launches.
This second Open Beta Test is set to include almost everything from its predecessor, with a couple of new additions. For instance, a new monster called the Gypceros will be introduced for players to hunt. Participants will also receive digital bonuses, specifically an OBT 2 Bonus Item Pack filled with useful items such as Shock Traps, Tranq Bombs, and Large Dung Pods, designed to give them a boost in the full game.
Here’s what you can expect in the OBT 2 Bonus Item Pack:
– 10 Raw Meats
– 3 Shock Traps
– 3 Pitfall Traps
– 10 Tranq Bombs
– 3 Large Barrel Bombs
– 5 Armor Spheres
– 10 Flash Pods
– 10 Large Dung Pods
Additionally, those who engage in the beta will snag an Open Beta Test Bonus Pendant, a cosmetic item first offered in the initial beta round.
The last beta received positive feedback from fans despite being quite rough around the edges. Many encountered performance hitches like glitches and texture pop-ins, even on high-end PCs. Those who participated might be curious to know if these issues have been ironed out for the second beta. Unfortunately, Capcom has stated that while they took note of the feedback from the first event, the fixes won’t be reflected in this second beta. There’s likely to be some online chatter, with critics voicing concerns about the game’s technical state so close to launch. Nevertheless, if Capcom follows through with its assurances, the full version of Monster Hunter Wilds should deliver a significantly improved experience from day one.
