Top 10 Monster Hunter Games Revealed

For two decades, Capcom's *Monster Hunter* series has captivated players with its thrilling blend of strategic combat and intense monster battles. From its 2004 PlayStation 2 debut to the chart-topping success of *Monster Hunter World* in 2018, the series has undergone a remarkable evolution. This ranking considers only the "Ultimate" versions of games where multiple releases exist, offering a definitive look at the series' best entries.

While each *Monster Hunter* game boasts unique qualities, we've ranked the entire series, including major DLC, to identify the ultimate champion. 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 dated controls and somewhat obtuse instructions might present a challenge for modern players, the core elements that define the series are undeniably present. Confronting colossal beasts with limited resources and raw survival skills was revolutionary in 2004, even if the steep learning curve proved frustrating for many. Developed for Capcom's PlayStation 2 online gaming initiative, the game's focus on online event missions remains a significant part of its legacy, though official servers are now offline outside Japan. The single-player experience, however, still allows players to engage with the hunts that launched an entire 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

Launching on the PlayStation Portable in 2005 (Japan), and worldwide in 2006, Monster Hunter Freedom marked the series' first foray into handheld gaming. An enhanced version of Monster Hunter G, it introduced quality-of-life improvements and, crucially, brought the Monster Hunter experience to a wider audience. The portable format emphasized cooperative play, uniting players to hunt together regardless of location. Despite its less-refined controls and camera, Freedom remains enjoyable and holds a significant place in the series' history as a pivotal step in its evolution and expansion of its player base.

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

Monster Hunter Freedom Unite, an expansion of Monster Hunter Freedom 2 (itself an expansion of the Japan-only Monster Hunter 2), was a massive undertaking at the time of its release. It introduced memorable monsters like the 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 (2010), Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate refined the story and difficulty, offering a more streamlined experience with new monsters and quests. The return of the Hunting Horn, Bow, Gunlance, and Dual Blades added weapon diversity. Underwater combat, while challenging the camera, added a unique dimension. Despite limitations in online multiplayer on the Wii U, the co-op element remained a central draw.

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 represented a significant turning point, introducing dedicated online multiplayer alongside local co-op. The addition of Apex Monsters provided challenging endgame content, and vertical movement significantly altered gameplay and expanded map size.

5. Monster Hunter Rise

Developer: Capcom | Publisher: Capcom | Release Date: March 26, 2021 | Review: IGN's Monster Hunter Rise review

Returning to handhelds after Monster Hunter World, Rise refined the series' console-honed mechanics for a smoother, faster-paced experience. Palamutes (rideable dog companions) and the Wirebug mechanic 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, monsters, and a revised weapon system. The gothic-horror themed Citadel and challenging endgame hunts significantly enhanced the Rise 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 boasts the largest monster roster in the series, alongside extensive hunter customization options and Hunter Styles that dramatically alter gameplay.

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, introducing a vast new campaign, numerous hunts, and the Guiding Lands, a combined zone featuring highlights from World. 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, thrilling hunts, and immersive ecosystem set a new standard for the franchise. The sense of scale and the detailed environments, complete with unique endemic life, create a breathtaking and memorable experience. Improved storytelling through high-quality cutscenes further enhances the overall presentation.

The 10 Best Monster Hunter Games

This ranking showcases the top ten Monster Hunter games. Share your own rankings and discuss your experiences with the series! Are you anticipating the release of Monster Hunter Wilds? Let us know in the comments.