Monster Hunter: World (including Iceborne) Review

Progression in Monster Hunter: World is built around hunting monsters to craft better weapons and armour, creating a satisfying loop that constantly pushes players forward. Each new hunt provides materials that unlock stronger gear, which in turn allows access to more difficult monsters and quests. The addition of Iceborne expands this system further with Master Rank gear and a longer endgame grind. However, farming specific materials can sometimes take multiple attempts, which can slow progression and feel repetitive over time. Despite this, the overall system remains highly rewarding due to the clear sense of improvement after each upgrade.

Monster Hunter: World delivers impressive visuals that bring its environments and creatures to life. Each region is filled with detailed ecosystems, from dense forests to icy tundras, all populated with smaller wildlife and environmental interactions. Monster designs are highly detailed with unique animations and behaviours that make each encounter feel dynamic. The PS5 and Xbox Series X/S version of the game now runs at a locked 60fps / 4K resolution via backward compatibility, which is a major plus compared to the original 30fps console launch. Additionally, the Iceborne expansion further enhances this with new environments that maintain the same level of quality. The overall presentation consistently supports immersion throughout the game.

The world design is one of the standout features of Monster Hunter: World. Maps are large, interconnected and designed to feel like living ecosystems rather than simple arenas. Monsters move naturally through these environments, interacting with other creatures and reacting to player actions. Verticality, hidden paths and environmental hazards add depth to exploration and combat encounters. This design encourages players to learn each map and use it strategically during hunts.

Combat in Monster Hunter: World is deliberate and weighty, with each weapon type offering a distinct playstyle. There are 14 weapon classes, each with unique mechanics that require practice to master. Positioning, timing and knowledge of monster behaviour are essential for success, especially in tougher hunts. While the combat is highly satisfying once understood, it can feel slow or clunky for new players due to animation commitment and learning curve. Over time, mastering a weapon becomes one of the most rewarding aspects of the game.

Co-op play is a core part of Monster Hunter: World and allows up to four players to hunt together. Fighting large monsters as a group adds a layer of strategy and makes difficult hunts more manageable. However, the multiplayer system has some limitations, particularly during story missions where players must watch cutscenes before joining others. Matchmaking and lobby systems can also feel slightly awkward compared to more modern multiplayer games. Despite these issues, the co-op experience remains highly enjoyable and is a major reason many players continue playing long after finishing the story.