Monster Hunter Wilds is one of the best entries in the franchise, and the reason for that is due to how easy it is for people to get into. The game has been streamlined enough that both veterans and newcomers can enjoy it, which is why it's so beloved by many.
However, there is one issue, and that's regarding a particular weapon. Using it feels as if it turns anyone from a liability into an asset, regardless of how much easier the game is trying to make it for players. For those of you wondering what it is, the weapon I'm referring to is the Heavy Bowgun.
Some may wonder why that, instead of something like Monster Hunter Wilds' Hammer or Hunting Horn. The answer I can give is that, after playing the game since its release, I identify it as a much worse version of the Light Bowgun.
The Heavy Bowgun was designed to be a harder-hitting version of its lighter counterpart, with its biggest drawback being that the user's movement is heavily impaired due to its weight. And while it does pack a wallop, the Light Bowgun can surpass the amount of damage it deals, and is ultimately the better option.
It is also far from being a beginner-friendly weapon in Monster Hunter Wilds. especially when compared to its lighter sibling. The reduced movement speed often means its users will find themselves in awkward situations during hunts, with little to no chance of escape.
While it does have a Guard ability to aid that problem, which can be upgraded with the right Decorations, it barely alleviates it. I've found that users will still be pinned at the spot where they're forced to defend themselves, and given how fast and more aggressive higher-ranked monsters can attack, this will likely result in being carted back to camp.
That brings me to the other reason why players should avoid the weapon at all costs: it often leads to failing missions without a capable party. Because of how slow and encumbered the Heavy Bowgun's user gets, that person will have to rely on the team to take the aggression away.
If that doesn't happen, there is a very good chance that one strong strike from something like the Zoh Shia or the recently added Omega Planetes will result in death. So, aside from having to deal with the monster, the party will also have to babysit the Heavy Bowgun user as well or risk failing, which doesn't necessarily equate to a fun time.
Given all those cons, it seems players will be better off using the Light Bowgun instead. The weapon may not have the defensive capabilities of its heavier counterpart, but it has much better dodging capabilities, and it can deal just as much or even more damage.
It certainly felt like Capcom missed the mark with the Heavy Bowgun, despite the changes in Monster Hunter Wilds that should have made it much better than it currently is. Considering the problems with the weapon, players may want to avoid it, as they're likely to have a much less enjoyable experience with the game if they don't. Hopefully, the next entry turns it into what it's supposed to feel like in this one: a weighty weapon of mass destruction.
For more like this, stick with us here at Gfinityesports.com, the best website for gaming features and opinions.