How World's FFXIV and The Witcher 3 Collabs Inspired Monster Hunter Wilds - IGN First
- By Violet
- Mar 15,2025
Monster Hunter Wilds boasts numerous improvements and new features, but its development was subtly shaped by earlier crossover events in Monster Hunter World. Ideas from Final Fantasy XIV's director, Naoki Yoshida (Yoshi-P), and the positive player response to the Witcher 3 crossover directly influenced key gameplay elements in Wilds.
Yoshi-P's suggestion, made during the FFXIV crossover event, inspired the new in-game HUD feature displaying attack names in real-time. This was partially previewed in the 2018 FFXIV crossover, notably during the Behemoth fight, where the boss's attacks were similarly displayed. Even the "Jump" emote, unlocked after defeating Behemoth, showcased this on-screen attack name display. This collaboration also introduced memorable elements like catchable Cactuars, a Kulu-Ya-Ku hunt set to Chocobo music, and the striking Drachen armor set.
The positive reception to the Witcher 3 crossover solidified the decision to incorporate more dialogue options and a speaking protagonist in Monster Hunter Wilds. The Witcher 3 crossover, featuring Geralt of Rivia, allowed for player dialogue choices and showcased a speaking protagonist – a stark contrast to previous Monster Hunter games. This experiment proved successful, paving the way for the enhanced narrative experience in Wilds.
Director Yuya Tokuda revealed that while Wilds wasn't in active development during the World collaborations, these experiences informed his vision for the future of the series. He actively pursued the Witcher 3 collaboration, demonstrating his forward-thinking approach to enhancing the Monster Hunter experience.
For a comprehensive look at Monster Hunter Wilds, including exclusive gameplay and interviews, check out this month's IGN First coverage:
- Behind Monster Hunter Wilds' New Approach to Starting Weapons and Hope Series Gear
- Monster Hunter Wilds Interview and Gameplay: Meet Nu Udra, Apex of the Oilwell Basin
- Evolving Monster Hunter: How Capcom’s Belief in the Series Made it a Worldwide Hit
- Monster Hunter Wilds: Gravios Returns in This Exclusive Gameplay
