Monster Hunter Wilds stands as one of the most eagerly awaited games of 2025, and for valid reasons. The series' previous entries, 2018's Monster Hunter World and 2021's Monster Hunter Rise, were both critically acclaimed and set sales records, with World currently ranking as Capcom's second best-selling game ever, surpassing 26 million copies sold. However, the Monster Hunter franchise has a rich history predating World and Rise, which marked a new era for the series. While the franchise was already immensely popular in Japan before World, it had more of a niche following in North America. Nonetheless, the games have consistently been of high quality.
For those interested in exploring the older titles, several classic Monster Hunter games are available at retail prices on Nintendo Switch and 3DS. The best starting point is Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate, which can be purchased digitally on the Switch eShop for just $10 (normally $40), or physically for $43.54 on Amazon. As Generations Ultimate is now out of print, physical copies may fluctuate in price. This game is often considered a 'greatest hits' compilation, featuring a vast array of monsters and locations from the franchise's history up to World. If you're looking for a single older Monster Hunter game, Generations Ultimate is the perfect choice.
Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate is regarded as the final entry in the series to feature the traditional 'old Monster Hunter' gameplay, complete with its quirks and charm. Initially released in Japan in 2015 as Monster Hunter X on 3DS, the game was rebranded as Generations for its 2016 localization. Capcom further expanded the game for its 2018 release on Switch as Generations Ultimate. Players familiar with World or Rise will notice the game's 3DS origins and classic design, but Generations Ultimate offers a more accessible experience with quality-of-life improvements and faster, more varied combat.
Despite being nearly a decade old, Generations Ultimate remains the most content-rich Monster Hunter game, packed with hundreds of quests and nearly every monster, map, and town hub from previous titles. With over 90 large monsters to hunt, including some new additions, it's a treasure trove of content. While World and Rise brought Monster Hunter to multiple platforms, Generations Ultimate remains exclusive to the Switch. If you need a Switch to play it, consider saving on a Nintendo Switch OLED or the handheld-only Switch Lite at Amazon.
For those interested in even older titles, Monster Hunter games used to release in two versions—a base game followed by an expanded 'Ultimate' version. Generations Ultimate is the superior choice, but the base Generations game is still reasonably priced at $45.59 on Amazon and worth considering if you don't have a Switch. Note that playing Monster Hunter on 3DS is best on the New Nintendo 3DS XL or 2DS XL due to the added C-stick. If you don't have a New model, an accessory like the Circle Pad Pro can add a second analog stick, though it's hard to find at a reasonable price.
Other notable 3DS titles include Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate (2013) and Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate (2015), which offer a more authentic 'classic Monster Hunter' experience. These games are highly regarded by long-time fans, especially 4 Ultimate. If you need a 3DS, Amazon's Renewed program offers refurbished handhelds with a 90-day guarantee.
For newcomers, Monster Hunter World and Rise, along with their expansions, are the best entry points before Wilds. Physical copies are available on Amazon, along with spinoffs like Monster Hunter Stories and its sequel. The official Monster Hunter Amiibo figures and art books are also available. The next game, Monster Hunter Wilds, launches February 28 on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC, offering a potential starting point for new players. Preorders are available, including a limited-edition steelbook for just $5 more. PC gamers can save 18% on preorders at Fanatical, bringing the standard edition to $57.39.
