Top 5 Alternative Games to Quench Your 'Monster Hunter' Cravings

For those who crave the thrill of the hunt, Capcom's 'Monster Hunter' series is a favored pick. However, sometimes you might find yourself in need of a change of scenery or a different kind of challenge. For that purpose, we've compiled a list of five alternative games that capture the essence of 'Monster Hunter', each with their own unique twists and turns. Below you'll find an exploration into their gameplay, story, and setting.

1. "Dauntless"

"Dauntless": A Free-to-Play Monster Hunting Experience

"Dauntless" by Phoenix Labs offers a free-to-play monster hunting experience that fans of "Monster Hunter" are sure to enjoy. The game takes place in the Shattered Isles, an expansive series of floating islands filled with behemoths for players to track down and combat.

Gameplay

The action-packed gameplay in "Dauntless" revolves around cooperative play, where teams form up to four Slayers face off against monstrous Behemoths using various weapons and tactics. The more battles won, the better gear players can craft from materials obtained from defeated Behemoths.

Story & Setting

The narrative unfolds across different quests as the player helps humanity survive after an apocalyptic event known as the Upheaval, which shattered the world into floating islands inhabited by ferocious behemoths.

2. "God Eater 3"

"God Eater 3": Post-Apocalyptic Beast Battles

"God Eater 3" developed by Bandai Namco Studios, offers a compelling blend of fast-paced action and strategic play in a post-apocalyptic setting. It is another great alternative for fans of "Monster Hunter".

Gameplay

"God Eater 3" presents players with unique weapons known as God Arcs that can transform between melee, ranged, and shield forms. The game encourages team-based tactics with AI or fellow players to take down gigantic Aragami monsters.

Story & Setting

The story revolves around a group of "God Eaters," warriors capable of wielding the powerful God Arcs weapons. These brave fighters are humanity's last defense against the monstrous Aragami that roam the ravaged world.

3. "Toukiden: Kiwami"

"Toukiden: Kiwami": Ancient Japan Meets Monster Hunting

"Toukiden: Kiwami", developed by Omega Force, blends monster hunting mechanics with a historical Japanese setting, offering an interesting twist on the genre.

Gameplay

The gameplay involves forming teams with other Slayers (either AI or real players) and using various weapons and tactics to defeat Oni - demon-like creatures from Japanese folklore.

Story & Setting

The game is set in various historical periods of Japan under attack by Oni. Players step into the shoes of a Slayer, tasked with defending mankind from these supernatural threats.

4. "The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt"

"The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt": A Narrative-Driven Monster Hunting Experience

"The Witcher 3" developed by CD Projekt offers a narrative-driven monster hunting experience set in a richly detailed fantasy world. It's an ideal choice for those who enjoy the thrill of hunting monsters combined with deep storytelling.

Gameplay

Players take on the role of Geralt of Rivia, a professional monster hunter known as a Witcher. They must use their combat skills, alchemical knowledge, and strategic thinking to hunt down a variety of beasts and supernatural entities.

Story & Setting

The game is set in the Continent, a vast land filled with kingdoms, dangerous forests, and formidable monsters. The story revolves around Geralt's quest to find his missing adopted daughter while navigating political intrigue and ancient prophecies.

5. "Dragon's Dogma: Dark Arisen"

"Dragon’s Dogma: Dark Arisen": A Blend of Action RPG and Monster Hunting

"Dragon's Dogma: Dark Arisen" developed by Capcom offers an engaging blend of action RPG elements with traditional monster hunting mechanics, making it an excellent alternative for fans of "Monster Hunter".

Gameplay

In Dragon’s Dogma, players can employ various strategies against gigantic foes using their customizable characters and AI-controlled partners called Pawns. The dynamic combat system allows players to climb atop larger enemies during fights.

Story & Setting

The game takes place in Gransys, a fantasy world teeming with dreadful monsters where you play as the Arisen - one chosen by destiny to defeat the fearsome dragon terrorizing the land.

If you love "Monster Hunter", these games are sure to satisfy your craving for challenging battles against formidable foes. Each presents its own unique spin on monster-hunting gameplay while offering rich narratives and captivating settings. Happy hunting!