5 Video Games to Play If You Can’t Afford Monster Hunter Wilds
Monster Hunter Wild has been released for a week now and I am still not over the fast that they game simply looks AMAZING! Wilds was one of the most anticipated games in the Monster Hunter franchise, promising expansive environments, thrilling combat, and even more challenging monsters to hunt.
However, if you are like me, one of the poor souls that have to wait for the game to go on sale many moons later after its release… I feel your pain…Not every one of us can afford the game on release, so instead of being salty about it… I decided to draft a list of games you can play and maybe afford while waiting for Wild to go on sale, whether it’s hunting massive beasts, mastering deep combat mechanics, or exploring rich fantasy worlds… I got you!
Monster Hunter World – The Best Alternative for Monster Hunter Wilds
If you want the closest experience to Monster Hunter Wilds, look no further than Monster Hunter World. Yes, not everyone is playing it right now and you will probably have to line up for a few hunts or join random SOSs, but the game still has the same thrilling adventures that await you.
Monster Hunter World is widely regarded as one of the best entries in the franchise because of its jaw-dropping environments and incredibly detailed monster designs. Each hunt feels like an epic battle against a living, breathing creature rather than just a boss fight. Fans adore how each monster has unique attack patterns, behaviors, and weaknesses, making every encounter feel fresh and exhilarating. From the ferocious Rathalos to the terrifying Nergigante, these creatures are designed with a level of detail that makes them feel truly alive.
I have been playing Monster Hunter World for a while, yet I only defeated Fatalis once, that fight alone was so difficult for me, that I had no words when it was finally over.
Horizon Zero Dawn – For Those Who Love a Beautiful Open World
If what excites you about Monster Hunter Wilds is the massive world and engaging combat, Horizon Zero Dawn is an excellent alternative. Instead of hunting mythical creatures, you’ll take down massive mechanical beasts in a stunning post-apocalyptic landscape.
Now as someone who has not played this game yes, I have sat through a few streams with friends who played the game, and one of the biggest reasons Horizon Zero Dawn is a fan favorite is its visually stunning world. The game’s environments are filled with diverse biomes, from dense forests to snowy mountain peaks, each rendered in breathtaking detail. The robotic creatures, inspired by real-world animals, are among the most creative enemy designs in gaming history.
Players love the satisfaction of outsmarting these mechanical beasts, using Aloy’s tools and traps to bring them down in exciting, tactical combat. The game’s deep story, rich with lore about a lost civilization, keeps players invested, making Horizon Zero Dawn much more than just a monster-hunting experience—it’s an unforgettable journey.
And I will be playing it for myself someday.
Final Fantasy Explorers – A Portable Monster Hunting Adventure
If you’re looking for a more traditional RPG take on Monster Hunter, Final Fantasy Explorers is the perfect choice. This action RPG for the Nintendo 3DS focuses on cooperative monster hunting while bringing back the classic Final Fantasy elements like magic, summons, and job classes.
If you are a big Final Fantasy fan such as myself, this game looks amazing, and sadly while I do not have a Nintendo, it is still something I would love to have the opportunity of playing.
Fans of the game seem to really love how it blends the hunting mechanics of Monster Hunter with the magic and feel of the Final Fantasy series. The game may not have the graphical fidelity of console titles, but its vibrant art style and colorful creature designs still make it a joy to experience and give fans a feeling of home. The ability to summon legendary beings like Shiva and Leviathan is a huge selling point, giving players a sense of power and nostalgia. The co-op gameplay is another fan-favorite aspect, as working together to defeat massive creatures feels rewarding and immersive, especially for long-time Final Fantasy fans.
Bloodborne – A Dark, Intense Alternative
This one comes highly recommended by a friend and while Bloodborne isn’t a direct Monster Hunter alternative, it offers intense combat, terrifying monster designs, and a rewarding challenge.
If you love the idea of Monster Hunter’s strategic combat but want something much darker, Bloodborne is an excellent choice.
Bloodborne is a fan favorite among many of my friends group because of its gothic horror looks and scary monster designs. For example, the city of Yharnam, bathed in a haunting red moonlight, creates an atmosphere unlike any other game.
The disgusting bosses, such as the bloodthirsty Cleric Beast and the nightmarish Orphan of Kos, are terrifying and both beautiful in design.
Players love Bloodborne’s fast-paced combat, where quick reflexes and aggressive attacks seem to be the way to go. Its deep, mysterious lore keeps fans engaged long after they’ve finished the game, making it one of the most beloved titles in the Soulsborne series.
Would I myself play this… probably not, since I do not want to have nightmares about things like Orphan chasing me now. But for other players looking for something edgy and dark… this is for you!
Wild Hearts – The Best Alternative for a Monster Hunter-Style Game
If you’re looking for a game that plays almost identically to Monster Hunter but with a fresh spin, Wild Hearts is the perfect alternative you may want to look into.
Fans love Wild Hearts for its unique approach to monster hunting. The Karakuri system adds a new layer of creativity, allowing players to construct tools mid-battle. The game’s monsters are some of the most visually striking in the genre, blending animalistic traits with mythical elements. The environments, from cherry blossom fields to volcanic landscapes, are breathtaking, making every hunt feel like a cinematic experience.
This will definitely be the second closest game you will get to Monster Hunter Wild right now.
If Monster Hunter Wilds is out of your budget right now, don’t worry—there are plenty of fantastic alternatives that deliver similar thrills. Whether you prefer the classic Monster Hunter gameplay of World, the immersive open world of Horizon Zero Dawn, or the brutal challenges of Bloodborne, these games will keep you entertained while you save up for Wilds.
No matter which game you choose, you’re in for an epic adventure full of powerful monsters, intense battles, and rewarding progression. Happy hunting!
Lots of Love
Love what I do?
Consider donating to help keep the blog running. I appreciate every contribution to help me grow!!
