The Monster Hunter Wilds open beta is set to begin next week on PlayStation 5. Players will have the chance to experience new features, locales, and monsters before the game’s full release on February 28, 2024. PlayStation Plus members will get early access to the beta from Monday, October 28 at 8:00 pm PT until Wednesday, October 30 at 7:59 pm PT.
Non-PS Plus members can join from Thursday, October 31 at 8:00pm PT to Sunday, November 3 at 6:59pm PT. Pre-downloading is available the day before each respective start date, and a minimum of 18 GB of free space is required on the PS5. The beta introduces the Oilwell Basin, a new locale filled with unique monsters and a dynamic environment featuring oil wells that periodically burst into flames.
Key locations within Oilwell Basin include Azuz, the Everforge, a community settled around a large fire forge. New monsters adapted to the Oilwell Basin include The Black Flame, a mysterious creature; Ajarakan, a Fanged Beast with a distinct shell that reacts to the fiery conditions; and Rompopolo, a Brute Wyvern that inhabits deep oil silts and showcases unique adaptations.
Monster Hunter Wilds beta details
Beta participants will have access to character creation, a story trial featuring the game’s opening and a quest to defeat Chatacabra, and a challenging hunt against the Doshaguma (alpha) monster in both single-player and multiplayer modes. Multiplayer features include the option to summon NPC support hunters if unable to gather a full team of players. By participating in the beta, players will receive a special Pendant and item pack usable in the full game.
These bonuses will be downloadable content available after the game’s launch. The beta showcases features that leverage the PS5’s capabilities, such as haptic feedback, integrated speaker, 3D audio technology, adaptive triggers, and motion sensor for enhanced camera control and targeting. According to the digital manual for the open beta, Monster Hunter Wilds’ lobbies will support up to 100 players who can interact with one another, a significant improvement over previous entries in the series.
The manual also provides information on cross-platform play, Link Parties, and basic game mechanics. Monster Hunter Wilds is now available for pre-order, with special bonuses for early purchasers. The game launches on February 28, 2024, for PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, and Xbox Series S worldwide.
