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Monster Hunter, a franchise synonymous with Sony consoles for over a decade, made a surprising leap to Nintendo in March 2013 with Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate. Even more surprising, Capcom seems committed to this partnership, consistently extending their agreement for Monster Hunter titles exclusively on Nintendo platforms. This begs the question: why revisit a game released over a year ago, especially with a sequel on the horizon? Simply put, a great game deserves attention. This review explores the challenges and allure of Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate, offering insight into its intricate world and preparing potential hunters for the demanding journey ahead.

Embracing the Hunt: What Makes Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate Shine

Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate Gameplay

A True Monster Hunter’s Journey

Life in Moga Village, a tranquil fishing community, is disrupted by relentless earthquakes. Believing the sea wyvern Lagiacrus is responsible, the village elder calls upon the Hunter’s Guild. As a fresh recruit, you’re tasked with the seemingly impossible: slay Lagiacrus and save the village. Through quests ranging from gathering to hunting, you uncover the true source of the tremors. Lagiacrus is just the tip of the iceberg; the ancient Ceadeus poses the real threat, capable of causing tsunamis with a flick of its tail. Accompanied by the Shakalaka companions Cha-Cha and Kayamba, you’ll face primordial behemoths, only to discover that each victory unveils even more formidable foes. The gameplay loop is straightforward: accept quests, explore the map, track the monster, and engage in a life-or-death struggle.

Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate Combat

Unparalleled Combat System

Unlike traditional action RPGs where power is defined by gear and levels, Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate turns these conventions on their head. Even with top-tier equipment, a low-level monster can still pose a serious threat. The game’s realistic physics engine demands a different approach. Forget button-mashing; every attack and movement carries weight and consequence. A slow, heavy Greatsword requires a distinct strategy compared to the swift Dual Blades. Stamina management is crucial; sprinting, dodging, and blocking deplete your stamina, leaving you vulnerable when it runs low.

Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate Weapon SelectionThe game offers 12 weapon types, divided into Blademaster (melee) and Gunner (ranged). Blademasters contend with weapon sharpness, balancing damage output with durability. Gunners manage ammunition, requiring careful resource allocation. Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate introduces underwater combat, adding another layer of complexity. Water resistance affects movement and attack speed, rendering some weapons less effective. Mastering multiple weapons is essential for tackling the game’s diverse roster of over 60 monsters.

Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate Armor and Weapons

A Collector’s Dream: Massive Arsenal

With 12 distinct weapon types, each requiring dedicated practice, mastering even one takes significant time. Each weapon caters to a different playstyle, further emphasizing the importance of finding the right fit. The vast array of weapons and armor is a major draw. Each armor set consists of five pieces: head, chest, arms, waist, and legs, all crafted from monster parts. These parts are obtained by breaking specific monster parts, requiring skill and strategy. The “Desire Sensor” adds an element of chance, making desired drops elusive while showering you with unwanted materials.

Armor provides more than just defense; they grant passive skills that significantly impact your hunting prowess. The skill system is extensive and requires careful mixing and matching of armor pieces, augmented by decorations and charms, to achieve optimal builds. The unique design and aesthetics of the weapons and armor are a testament to Capcom’s attention to detail.

Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate Monster AI

Cunning AI: A True Test of Skill

What truly sets Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate apart is its formidable AI. Monsters possess unique attack patterns and react dynamically to your actions. They’ll flank you, exploit camera angles, and even avoid traps. Each monster has specific weak points, rewarding precise strikes. As monsters take damage, they become enraged, increasing their attack speed and power, punishing careless hunters. Arena quests, pitting you against two monsters simultaneously in a confined space, are the ultimate test of skill and adaptability.

Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate Environment

Stunning Visuals: A World to Explore

Despite Nintendo’s reputation for prioritizing gameplay over graphics, Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate showcases impressive visuals. From the crystal-clear water to the swaying grass and meticulously detailed monster designs, the game’s environments are a feast for the eyes. The HD visuals on the Wii U version truly shine, revealing intricate details in armor and weapons. Beyond the hunts, the world offers breathtaking vistas, from the moonlit peaks of Misty Peak to the cavernous depths of caves.

The Hunter’s Burden: Where Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate Falters

Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate Difficulty

A Steep Learning Curve

Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate’s biggest hurdle is its difficulty. The complex mechanics, demanding AI, and emphasis on skill create a steep learning curve, potentially alienating casual players. Many who try the demo are quickly overwhelmed by the controls and camera. In an era where games often cater to a broader audience, Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate’s unwavering difficulty stands out. While rewarding for dedicated players, it can be a barrier to entry for those seeking a more casual experience.

Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate Multiplayer

Network Play Complications

The true essence of Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate lies in its cooperative multiplayer. The 3DS version is limited to local play, while the Wii U version offers online functionality through Network Mode. However, the Wii U’s network setup can be troublesome. While a Wii U can host a local session for 3DS players, it cannot join a 3DS-hosted session. Two Wii U players require Network Mode even for local play. Data transfer is also limited to physical game cards, leaving digital owners unable to back up their save data.

Conclusion: A Rewarding Challenge

Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate is a demanding but deeply rewarding experience. Its unique combat system, vast array of content, and challenging AI offer hundreds of hours of gameplay. While its difficulty and network limitations may deter some, those willing to persevere will discover a rich and engaging world filled with thrilling hunts and unforgettable moments.