How Long Is Monster Hunter Wilds?

It's finally here! Monster Hunter Wilds has arrived on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. This latest entry in Capcom's acclaimed beast-battling series follows in the massive footsteps of Monster Hunter World and its expansive Iceborne expansion. But just how long will it take to conquer? We asked members of the IGN team to share their playtime, focusing on main story completion, side activities, and post-game adventures.

Tom Marks - Executive Reviews Editor, Games

I finished Monster Hunter Wilds’ main story in just under 15 hours. Unlike Monster Hunter Rise, this is the actual story conclusion, not a mid-point. However, completing the main campaign only finishes Low Rank. High Rank awaits, packed with side quests and tougher challenges. It took me another 15 hours to complete almost all of these quests and reach what I'd consider the true endgame. This included battling every monster, unlocking all crafting systems, and exploring the custom Artian weapon system designed for extended gameplay. Thanks to the streamlined grind, I only needed an additional five hours to obtain my desired weapon and armor sets, though significantly more is achievable across other weapon types.

Casey DeFreitas - Deputy Editor, Guides

I finished the final High Rank "story" mission in roughly 40 hours, approximately 22 hours after completing Low Rank. Accuracy is tricky as I spent time in menus for guide creation. During Low Rank, I focused on progressing the story, crafting minimally, and avoiding hunt repetition. My High Rank approach was similar, though I deviated to hunt optional monsters and collaborate with friends (necessary for story progression). I only upgraded my weapon once, specifically hunting an Ajarakan. A more methodical approach could easily extend playtime to 60 hours or more, allowing for optimized armor and weapon creation. I still have endemic life to collect, fishing, six side missions, and at least one more optional quest to unlock. Beyond that, I plan to farm for Talismans, create different armor sets, experiment with Artian weapons, and replay the story with friends while mastering new weapons. Future title updates and event quests further extend the potential playtime.

Simon Cardy - Senior Editorial Producer

Completing Monster Hunter Wilds’ main story took me just under 16 hours, a surprising speed compared to my World playthrough (25 hours without finishing). As a relative newcomer to the series, I found many battles surprisingly easy. While I did faint a few times against apex predators, the overall experience felt quite smooth. Streamlined mechanics, such as reduced emphasis on elemental weaknesses, crafting, and tracking, contributed to this faster pace. The consistent story cutscene/monster battle rhythm, while appreciated for its swift conclusion, might leave some dedicated fans wanting more of the classic Monster Hunter experience until the post-game content.

Jada Griffin - Community Lead

Reaching the initial credits took around 20 hours, encompassing optional and side quests. I also spent time exploring the world, hunting endemic life, customizing menus and shouts, and finding ideal camp locations. Completing all High-Rank missions and side quests took another 15 hours. My overall playtime nears 70 hours, including casual hunts with friends, decoration farming, and hunting for monster crowns. I’m eagerly awaiting future title updates with new monsters.

Ronny Barrier - Producer, Guides

I reached the first credits after about 20 hours, prioritizing the story with minimal grinding for armor sets (though I did try various weapons—the Switch Axe is fantastic!). My current playtime is 65 hours, and I don't consider the initial credits the true ending. The story feels like an extended tutorial, which I enjoy, as it leads to more hunts and new monsters (except Congalala—I'd rather not see him again).