Highlights
Monster Hunter has seen a resurgence in popularity and now has the opportunity to explore new directions and spin-offs beyond its traditional gameplay formula.
The mobile game Monster Hunter Now aims to make the series more accessible to mobile players, providing a condensed and bite-sized gaming experience.
Possible spin-off concepts include developing a virtual terrarium themed around Monster Hunter, assuming the role of a monster with an emphasis on survival, or embarking on a fresh adventure from the perspective of the monsters themselves.
Monster Hunter, a captivating franchise by Capcom, has the potential for various exciting future developments. With the recent success of Monster Hunter World and Monster Hunter Rise, the series is experiencing a resurgence, not just in Japan but also among international audiences. To propel Monster Hunter forward, it may be worth considering deviating from its conventional blueprint and exploring numerous spin-off possibilities.
One such venture is Niantic's Monster Hunter Now, a mobile game that serves as an experimental expansion of the series' core formula. The essence of Monster Hunter lies in tracking formidable creatures within vast, open landscapes and participating in intense, strategic battles that demand both skill and quick reflexes. Monster Hunter Now, however, takes this fundamental concept and adapts it into a mobile gaming experience that is easily accessible for players who prefer short bursts of gameplay. This new direction promises to provide a distinct departure from traditional Monster Hunter games, which begs the question of what potential achievements other spin-offs could yield.
Monster Hunter Could See Many Spin-Offs in its Future
A potential spin-off idea could revolve around the creative elements found in Animal Crossing: New Horizons and Zoo Tycoon. In this game, players would have the task of building an island where Monster Hunter's various monster species can thrive. By designing the terrain, foliage, and food sources specific to each monster, players can create their own virtual terrarium in a free-range style game. To add more depth, players could also take on challenges to create islands according to certain guidelines or restore deteriorating islands.
Another idea for a spin-off could draw inspiration from The Sims' life simulation gameplay, but with a twist. Instead of playing as a hunter, players would assume the life of a monster. They would have the freedom to choose their species and establish their nest, while navigating the challenges of survival, such as finding food, water, and shelter. This unique take on the Monster Hunter franchise would offer a more survival-oriented experience, allowing players to embody the captivating creatures from the game and enjoy the excitement it brings.
A new possibility for the Monster Hunter franchise lies in the realm of a fresh adventure, similar to the spin-off series Pokemon Mystery Dungeon. This game would present a unique perspective, focusing solely on the monsters and their intelligent society and methods of communication. Players would have the opportunity to team up monsters, partake in battles, and embark on thrilling adventures. Alongside the captivating story, players could discover innovative battle strategies and learn to combine monster abilities. By venturing into this hypothetical game, players would experience an intriguing adventure solely from the monsters' point of view.
The Monster Hunter games are already highly entertaining, but the franchise has immense potential for future spin-offs. To further expand on its success, it is crucial to break the mold and explore new directions. Monster Hunter Now and Monster Hunter Stories are prime examples of the franchise's openness to experimentation, leaving plenty of room for untapped possibilities in the future. Through spin-offs, Monster Hunter can reach new heights and enhance the overall gaming experience.