Monster Hunter World (MHW) is an expansive action RPG brimming with colossal beasts and a dizzying array of weapon choices. Deciding which weapon to start with can feel overwhelming, especially for newcomers. This guide will walk you through the various weapon types, highlighting their strengths, weaknesses, and playstyles, helping you make an informed decision and embark on your hunting journey with confidence.
Understanding Weapon Categories And Playstyles
MHW features 14 unique weapon types, each offering a distinct combat experience. These weapons can be broadly categorized into melee and ranged options, further subdivided based on speed, power, and complexity. There are no inherently “best” or “worst” weapons, as each excels in different situations and caters to diverse player preferences. The key is finding a weapon that resonates with your personal playstyle and that you genuinely enjoy using.
Melee Weapons: Getting Up Close And Personal
Melee weapons prioritize close-quarters combat, demanding skillful positioning and timing. They offer a visceral and engaging experience, allowing you to directly engage with the monster’s attacks.
Great Sword: The Slow but Devastating Option
The Great Sword is the quintessential “hit-and-run” weapon. It boasts the highest raw damage per hit but suffers from slow attack speed and significant sheathing time. Its core gameplay revolves around charging attacks for maximum impact and strategically positioning yourself to capitalize on openings. Learning to predict monster movements and landing those powerful charged strikes is crucial for mastering the Great Sword. Consider this if you enjoy calculated aggression and delivering massive damage in single blows.
Sword and Shield: Versatility and Accessibility
The Sword and Shield (SnS) is often recommended for beginners due to its well-rounded nature. It offers a balance of offense and defense, allowing you to quickly attack, block, and dodge. The SnS also has the unique ability to use items without sheathing your weapon, making it incredibly versatile in various situations. It’s an excellent choice for learning monster attack patterns and developing fundamental combat skills. Its versatility makes it a great choice for players who prefer a more reactive and adaptable style.
Dual Blades: Unleashing a Flurry of Attacks
Dual Blades are all about relentless aggression. They prioritize rapid attacks and mobility, allowing you to quickly close the distance and unleash a flurry of strikes. The Demon Mode enhances your attack power and unlocks unique combos, but it drains stamina, requiring careful resource management. The Dual Blades excel at applying elemental damage and status effects. Pick this weapon if you love fast-paced action and overwhelming your enemies with constant attacks.
Long Sword: Mastering the Spirit Gauge
The Long Sword is a stylish and powerful weapon that relies on building up a Spirit Gauge to unleash devastating Spirit Blade attacks. Its moveset revolves around chaining attacks to fill the gauge and then using Spirit Blade combos to deal significant damage. Mastering the Foresight Slash, a counter attack that also builds Spirit Gauge, is key to success. If you enjoy a blend of skillful offense and rewarding timing, the Long Sword might be for you.
Hammer: Stun Locking and Exhausting Monsters
The Hammer is a blunt weapon that excels at dealing impact damage, which can stun and exhaust monsters. Its attacks are slow but powerful, and they are particularly effective against a monster’s head. Learning monster attack patterns and predicting their movements is crucial for landing those crucial stun attacks. If you enjoy controlling the flow of battle and incapacitating your prey, the Hammer is a great option.
Hunting Horn: Support and Offense Combined
The Hunting Horn is a unique weapon that combines offensive capabilities with supportive buffs. Each horn has a different set of melodies that can be played to provide various benefits to yourself and your teammates, such as increased attack power, defense, or healing. While it can be used effectively solo, the Hunting Horn truly shines in multiplayer hunts. Consider the Hunting Horn if you enjoy supporting your team and contributing to the overall success of the hunt.
Lance: The Immovable Fortress
The Lance is a defensive powerhouse, allowing you to block nearly any attack. Its offensive capabilities are somewhat limited, but it excels at consistently dealing damage while maintaining a safe position. The Charge attack allows you to quickly close the distance and deliver a powerful thrust. If you prefer a defensive playstyle and enjoy patiently whittling down your opponents, the Lance is a solid choice.
Gunlance: Explosive Offense and Defense
The Gunlance combines the defensive capabilities of the Lance with explosive shelling attacks. Its gameplay revolves around maintaining a steady stream of damage with both melee attacks and shelling, creating a unique and aggressive playstyle. Managing heat levels and choosing the right shelling type are crucial for maximizing the Gunlance’s potential. If you enjoy a blend of offense and defense with a touch of explosive power, the Gunlance is worth considering.
Switch Axe: Morphing Power
The Switch Axe is a versatile weapon that can transform between Axe Mode and Sword Mode. Axe Mode excels at dealing raw damage and has good reach, while Sword Mode offers faster attacks and powerful elemental discharge attacks. Mastering the weapon involves seamlessly switching between modes to adapt to different situations. If you enjoy a weapon with multiple forms and adaptable playstyle, the Switch Axe is a great fit.
Charge Blade: Complex but Rewarding
The Charge Blade is arguably the most complex weapon in Monster Hunter World. It involves charging up Phials by attacking in Sword Mode and then using those Phials to enhance your attacks in Axe Mode. The Super Amped Elemental Discharge is a devastating attack that can deal massive damage, but it requires careful timing and positioning. If you enjoy a challenging and rewarding weapon with a high skill ceiling, the Charge Blade is worth the investment.
Insect Glaive: Aerial Dominance
The Insect Glaive is a unique weapon that allows you to vault into the air and perform aerial attacks. It also utilizes a Kinsect, which can be sent out to extract buffs from monsters and provide additional support. Mastering the Insect Glaive involves maintaining buffs, utilizing aerial attacks effectively, and coordinating with your Kinsect. If you enjoy mobility, aerial combat, and a unique weapon mechanic, the Insect Glaive is a fun and rewarding choice.
Ranged Weapons: Striking From A Distance
Ranged weapons allow you to attack monsters from a safe distance, providing a strategic advantage. They require careful aiming and resource management, but they can be incredibly effective against certain monsters.
Light Bowgun: Rapid Fire and Mobility
The Light Bowgun (LBG) is a mobile and versatile ranged weapon that excels at applying status effects and dealing consistent damage. It allows you to quickly move around the battlefield and fire off a variety of ammo types, such as rapid fire, slicing ammo, and elemental ammo. Managing ammo types and crafting resources is crucial for maximizing the LBG’s potential. If you enjoy a mobile and versatile ranged weapon that can adapt to different situations, the LBG is a great choice.
Heavy Bowgun: Raw Power and Customization
The Heavy Bowgun (HBG) is a powerful ranged weapon that prioritizes raw damage. It offers a variety of customization options, allowing you to specialize in different ammo types and playstyles. Some HBGs can even use Wyvernsnipe and Wyvernheart, powerful special ammo types that can deal massive damage. If you prefer a slow but powerful ranged weapon with a high degree of customization, the HBG is worth considering.
Bow: Precision and Mobility
The Bow is a ranged weapon that relies on precision aiming and strategic positioning. It allows you to charge your shots for increased damage and apply coatings to enhance your attacks. Mastering the Bow involves learning monster weak spots, managing stamina, and utilizing different arrow types effectively. If you enjoy a challenging but rewarding ranged weapon that requires skill and precision, the Bow is a great fit.
Tips For Choosing Your First Weapon
Choosing your first weapon in Monster Hunter World is a personal decision. There are no right or wrong answers. However, here are some tips to help you make an informed choice:
- Try them all: The Training Area is an excellent resource for experimenting with different weapons and getting a feel for their movesets. Spend some time with each weapon to see which one clicks with you.
- Consider your playstyle: Do you prefer fast-paced action or calculated aggression? Do you like to be up close and personal or attack from a distance? Choose a weapon that aligns with your preferred playstyle.
- Don’t be afraid to switch: You are not locked into your initial weapon choice. Feel free to experiment with different weapons throughout the game and find what you enjoy the most.
- Watch gameplay videos: Watching experienced players use different weapons can provide valuable insights into their strengths, weaknesses, and playstyles.
- Focus on fun: Ultimately, the best weapon is the one you enjoy using the most. Choose a weapon that you find fun and engaging, and you’ll be more likely to stick with it and master its intricacies.
- Consider weapon complexity: Some weapons, like the Charge Blade, are notoriously complex. If you’re new to Monster Hunter, starting with a simpler weapon like the Sword and Shield might be a better option. You can always try more complex weapons later.
- Think about multiplayer: While all weapons are viable solo, some, like the Hunting Horn, excel in multiplayer hunts. If you plan on playing primarily with friends, consider a weapon that complements their playstyles.
Weapon Recommendations For Beginners
While any weapon can be used effectively by beginners, some are generally considered more accessible and forgiving than others. Here are a few recommendations:
- Sword and Shield: Its versatility, ease of use, and ability to use items without sheathing make it an excellent starting point.
- Long Sword: Relatively easy to pick up and offers good damage output and mobility.
- Insect Glaive: Its aerial attacks can make it easier to avoid monster attacks, and its Kinsect provides additional support.
- Light Bowgun: Mobile and versatile, allowing you to experiment with different ammo types and playstyles.
Experimentation Is Key
Ultimately, the best way to find your ideal weapon is to experiment and discover what resonates with you. Don’t be afraid to try different weapons and playstyles until you find one that you truly enjoy. Monster Hunter World offers a wealth of content and challenges, and mastering your chosen weapon will be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. Happy hunting!
What Makes A Weapon “beginner-friendly” In Monster Hunter World?
A beginner-friendly weapon generally possesses a simpler moveset, forgiving timing windows for attacks, and decent defensive capabilities. This allows new players to focus on learning monster attack patterns and movement mechanics without being overwhelmed by complex combos or difficult-to-execute maneuvers. Weapons like the Sword and Shield or the Long Sword are often recommended due to their balance of offense and defense, relatively straightforward controls, and the ability to easily sheathe for quick item use.
Furthermore, beginner-friendly weapons usually offer versatility in terms of combat range and monster matchups. They shouldn’t be overly reliant on specific skills or gear to be effective in the early game. This gives players a broader range of experiences and the opportunity to adapt to different hunting situations without feeling completely lost or underpowered. It’s about building a solid foundation of core skills and understanding the fundamentals of Monster Hunter combat.
Should I Prioritize Damage Output Over Ease Of Use When Choosing My First Weapon?
While dealing substantial damage is certainly important in Monster Hunter World, prioritizing damage output over ease of use when starting out can be detrimental to your learning experience. Trying to master a complex weapon with high damage potential without first understanding the game’s core mechanics, such as monster attack patterns, positioning, and stamina management, will likely lead to frustration and slow progress. You’ll spend more time carting (failing the quest) and less time actually learning how to hunt effectively.
Focus instead on selecting a weapon that allows you to consistently engage with monsters and survive their attacks. This will enable you to gradually learn the nuances of each encounter and develop good hunting habits. As you become more comfortable with the game, you can then experiment with more complex weapons that offer higher damage potential, building upon the fundamental skills you’ve already acquired. Damage will come naturally as your skill increases.
How Much Does Weapon Customization Affect My Choice Of A First Weapon?
Weapon customization, particularly in the form of decorations, augments, and armor skills, plays a significant role in optimizing a weapon’s performance later in the game. However, when initially choosing your first weapon, customization options shouldn’t be a primary factor. In the early game, you’ll have limited access to these customization features, and the focus should be on mastering the weapon’s basic moveset and understanding how it interacts with different monsters.
While some weapons may benefit more from specific skills or augments than others, this is something to consider later in your progression. For your first weapon, prioritize finding something that feels comfortable and intuitive to use, regardless of its potential for customization down the line. You can always branch out and explore other weapons and builds as you progress through the game and gain access to more customization options.
What Is The Sword And Shield, And Why Is It Often Recommended For Beginners?
The Sword and Shield is a versatile weapon that offers a good balance of offense, defense, and mobility. It’s one of the fastest weapons in the game, allowing players to quickly move around the battlefield, dodge attacks, and reposition themselves effectively. The shield provides decent protection against incoming attacks, making it more forgiving for beginners who are still learning monster attack patterns. It also allows the use of items without sheathing your weapon.
Furthermore, the Sword and Shield boasts a relatively simple moveset that’s easy to learn and master. It has a good mix of slashing and stabbing attacks, allowing it to deal both raw damage and elemental damage effectively. It also grants access to the slinger while the weapon is drawn, providing quick access to utility items like flash pods and dung pods. Its overall versatility and user-friendly nature make it an excellent choice for new hunters.
How Do I Know Which Weapon Is The “right” One For Me? Should I Try Them All?
The “right” weapon is subjective and depends entirely on your personal playstyle and preferences. What feels comfortable and intuitive to one player may feel clunky and awkward to another. The best way to find out which weapon suits you is to experiment with different options and see which one clicks with you. The training area in your room is perfect for this. Try out the various combos and attacks of each weapon to get a feel for their movement and handling.
While trying all 14 weapons is a significant time investment, it’s highly recommended to at least try out a few different weapon types before settling on one. Don’t be afraid to switch weapons if you find yourself struggling or becoming bored with your initial choice. Monster Hunter World encourages experimentation, and you may be surprised by which weapon you end up enjoying the most. Consider watching videos of experienced players using different weapons to see them in action and get a better understanding of their playstyles.
What Is The Impact Of Elemental Weaknesses On Choosing A Weapon For A Specific Monster?
Exploiting a monster’s elemental weaknesses is a crucial aspect of Monster Hunter World’s combat system. Different monsters are vulnerable to different elements, and using a weapon with the appropriate elemental damage type can significantly increase your damage output. While this is important, it is not essential when choosing your first weapon. In the early game, you’re more focused on learning the basics and may not have access to a wide variety of elemental weapons.
While you may choose to craft an elemental weapon effective against the early monsters, this is generally not required. A raw damage weapon will serve you just fine while you learn the ropes. As you progress, understanding elemental weaknesses becomes increasingly important. Researching a monster’s vulnerabilities and crafting weapons with the corresponding elements will become a key strategy for tackling tougher challenges. Consider this a mid- to late-game focus.
What Are Some Common Mistakes New Players Make When Choosing Their First Weapon?
One common mistake is focusing solely on the weapon’s attack power displayed on the stat screen. While attack power is important, it’s not the only factor that determines a weapon’s effectiveness. Other factors such as sharpness, affinity (critical hit chance), and elemental damage can also significantly impact your damage output. Simply choosing the weapon with the highest raw attack power might not always be the optimal choice.
Another common mistake is choosing a weapon based solely on someone else’s recommendation or a popular online build. What works well for one player may not necessarily work well for another. It’s important to find a weapon that suits your personal playstyle and feels comfortable to use. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try different options until you find something that clicks with you. Avoid getting caught up in meta builds before you’ve truly understood the weapon’s core mechanics.