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February is traditionally a month of blockbuster game releases. While 2022 saw the likes of Dying Light 2, Horizon: Forbidden West, Destiny 2: The Witch Queen, and Game of the Year Elden Ring vying for attention, 2023 offers a slightly less crowded but still wallet-draining lineup, with heavy hitters like Hogwarts Legacy, Dead Space Remake, Atomic Heart, and Destiny 2: Lightfall.

Amidst these titans emerges Wild Hearts, an unexpected collaboration between Koei Tecmo and EA. This Monster Hunter-inspired title boasts unique mechanics and a visually captivating world, promising a fresh take on the genre. The pedigree of the development team, known for the Toukiden series (another well-regarded Monster Hunter-like franchise), further fuels anticipation. But does this partnership live up to the hype? Let’s delve into the wild heart of ancient Japan to find out.

Faster, Stronger, Better Hunting

For Monster Hunter veterans, Wild Hearts offers a blend of the familiar and the innovative. The game’s weaponry adheres to familiar archetypes, featuring greatswords, longswords, hammers, and more unconventional options like the defensive Bladed Wagasa and the aerial Claw Blade, which puts even the Insect Glaive to shame.

The key differentiator lies in the combat’s enhanced speed and fluidity. Combos are faster, more dynamic, and easier to execute than in Monster Hunter, allowing for greater mobility and easier combo cancellation. Each weapon caters to a specific playstyle. The katana, for instance, is a versatile, lightweight weapon with swift animations and maneuverability. The Wagasa allows for parrying and counter-attacking, transforming standard combos into stylish and effective aerial assaults.

Each weapon also boasts a powerful ultimate ability. By fulfilling specific conditions and accumulating energy, players can “unbound” their weapon, unleashing its full destructive potential. The katana transforms into a whip with extended reach and devastating damage, the maul extends its handle and unleashes divine energy, and the Claw Blade grants true flight, allowing players to soar through the air.

alt text describing the character using the katana

This depth and dynamism extend to the game’s challenging Kemono, the monstrous creatures players hunt. Wild Hearts‘ 21 Kemono are faster, fiercer, and more agile than their Monster Hunter counterparts. Their extended combo chains and evasive maneuvers demand precise timing and skillful adaptation.

alt text describing the fast-paced combat against a Kemono

Fortunately, hunters have a powerful ally: Karakuri, mystical threads that enable the construction of various structures mid-combat. From springboards and jump pads to gliders, Karakuri offers a strategic advantage, allowing players to exploit the environment and gain the upper hand.

As players progress and unlock Fusion Conjuring, even more powerful Karakuri become available. Giant hammers, massive shields, and even cannons provide devastating offensive and defensive options. Karakuri is not merely a supplementary mechanic but an integral part of Wild Hearts‘ combat system, proving essential against the formidable Mighty and Volatile Kemono.

alt text describing the player using karakuri in combat

A World of Beauty, Plagued by Performance

Beyond combat, Karakuri enhances exploration. Players can construct permanent structures using Celestial Thread, similar to Death Stranding‘s asynchronous multiplayer. These structures not only aid traversal but also encourage exploration of Wild Hearts‘ beautiful world.

alt text describing the Karakuri structures in the environment

Unfortunately, technical issues mar the experience. While familiar Monster Hunter grievances like the grind, complex mechanics, and lackluster story are present, they are overshadowed by the game’s poor optimization. Even high-end hardware struggles to maintain a stable framerate, impacting the otherwise fluid combat and exploration. The game’s visuals, while detailed and stylized, don’t justify the performance hit, forcing players to choose between graphical fidelity and smooth gameplay.

alt text describing a Kemono in the game's environment

Conclusion: A Diamond in the Rough

Wild Hearts offers a thrilling and innovative hunting experience, with its fast-paced combat, unique Karakuri system, and stunning world. However, its significant technical issues hold it back from reaching its full potential. Addressing these performance problems is crucial for players to truly appreciate the depth and artistry of this promising title. With optimization, Wild Hearts could become a true contender in the monster hunting genre.