Monster Hunter Wilds has finally arrived on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC! This latest entry in Capcom's acclaimed beast-battling series builds upon the success of *Monster Hunter World* and its *Iceborne* expansion. But just how long will it take to conquer? We asked members of the IGN team to share their experiences, detailing their playtime, priorities, 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 actually marks the true story's end, not just a midpoint. However, completing the 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 the true endgame. This included fighting every monster, unlocking all crafting systems, and mastering the new Artian weapon system. Thanks to Wilds’ streamlined progression, I only needed another five hours to acquire my desired weapons and armor, though much more remains for those seeking to explore other weapon types.
**Casey DeFreitas - Deputy Editor, Guides** --------------------------------------------------I finished Monster Hunter Wilds’ final High Rank story mission around 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 progression, crafting only what was immediately necessary and avoiding hunt repetition. My High Rank approach was similar, though I diverted from story missions to hunt optional monsters with friends (often a requirement for unlocking further story missions). I only actively upgraded my weapon once, otherwise prioritizing reaching the final mission. A more thorough approach would likely have resulted in 60+ hours of playtime. I still need to complete endemic life collection, six side missions, and at least one more optional quest. Beyond that, I plan to farm for Talisman upgrades, craft new armor, experiment with Artian weapons, and replay the story with friends while learning new weapons. Future title updates and event quests further extend the game's lifespan.
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Simon Cardy - Senior Editorial Producer
I completed Monster Hunter Wilds’ main story in just under 16 hours, a surprising runtime compared to my World experience (25 hours before reaching the end). 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 streamlined. This simplification, aimed at newcomers, impacts runtime by scaling back elements like elemental weaknesses, loadout crafting, and extensive tracking.
The consistent story cutscene/monster battle pacing also contributes to the shorter runtime. While appreciated for its swift conclusion, this approach might leave some dedicated Monster Hunter fans wanting more of the core gameplay loop until the post-game content.
Jada Griffin - Community Lead
I reached Monster Hunter Wilds’ initial credits in about 20 hours, including optional and side quests, exploration, and customization (radial menus, shouts, camp locations). Completing all High-rank missions and side quests took another 15 hours. My total playtime now nears 70 hours, encompassing post-game activities like collaborative hunts, decoration farming, and crown hunting. I'm eagerly anticipating future title updates adding new monsters.
**Ronny Barrier - Producer, Guides** -------------------------------------------I saw the first credits after approximately 20 hours, mainly focusing on the story with minor detours for armor crafting. Experimenting with various weapons (Switch Axe is highly recommended!) added to the playtime. With 65 hours logged, I don't consider the initial credits the true ending, viewing it more as an extended tutorial. Numerous hunts, monsters, and crafting opportunities await, although I could do without encountering Congalala again.
