"Put This on your Wii Bucket List"

First of all, who doesn't like killing monsters. Add in multiple weapon types, deep and strategic gameplay, excellent graphics, and online functionality and you have yourself a game called Monster Hunter Tri. This is a basic formula that works out quite well when Capcom originally delivered Monster Hunter goodness and this formula is perfected in this wonderful game.

Gameplay: 9.5/10

The basic concept of hunting down massive, brutal and occasionally intimidating monsters lends the experience a grand and fulfilling feel. This is accomplished by having an action game with some basic RPG elements, a unique but effective blend. The multiple types of hunting (sword and shield, longsword, bowgun etc.) are varied and lend themselves to different playing styles. Fast, action-oriented players will drift towards the faster, more maneuverable weapons. The more patient players will prefer the slower weapons, which posses more brute force. Those who prefer to remain at a safe distance will choose the bowgun weapon, the deepest weapon choice in the game. This adds some depth to the selection process and gives players choices about their game experience. The armour is another choice the player will have to make. Materials uncovered through hunting, foraging and exploring will create armour, among other things, which is upgradeable and full of potential.

The structure of the single-player campaign is based around a small fishing village, which has been ruined by a fierce, marine monster. Your job is to build, and fight your way up the hunter ranks by going after smaller monsters, which will then result in larger, harder beast encounters. The quest system is deep and offers replayability options. The buildup of difficulty is near-perfect with some monsters having the ability to pose a challenge to all players.

The inclusion of online play is a very smart decision and is executed exceptionally. The main idea is that you get together with three other people to hunt monsters collectively that pose a stiffer challenge then usual. The sense of a well-oiled group working together to achieve something big is a great feeling of accomplishment. The progression system in the online mode is good for making sure only those ready for harder quests can accept them but it is a little too stingy.

Overall the core gameplay really drives this game. Getting out, discovering strategies to take down the monsters, finding new and rare materials, upgrading your favourite weapons and armour, and playing with friends and strangers adds up to something you have to experience to truly feel.

Aesthetics: 9/10

This is a section about the less important things aspects of game quality, but are still essential. I am talking about graphics and sound/music. The graphics are among the best on the Wii landscape. The multiple maps all containing varied ecosystems and climates adds up to an impressive bundle. The monster animation is quite realistic, although some of the monster are not, which is to be expected. The sound category falls more on the side of the special sounds and not so much the overall background music. The monster-unique sounds are phenomenal, when considering the dozens of types of creatures present in this game. The background music does its job, by presenting an epic, grandeur feel this is definitely an asset to the game.

Controls: 8/10

The different options for each control scheme are great for finding the one you feel comfortable with and this is really a preference choice. The Classic Controller is supported with two styles, the Wii Remote and Nunchuck combo is present as well. When I initially started out, neither control scheme seemed right and I had to stick with one before I got it to be second-nature. This has happened to many new players who sometimes consume an item when they are supposed to be attacking, which can result in a terrible situation. The Wii Remote and Nunchuck works fine with little flaws.

Summary

This game gives the best results for those who stick with it and persevere through the tough and challenging. Most Monster Hunter players expect to put 100+ hours into their game when the purchase is made. This is for those of you who like action games, discovering strategies, and those who like RPG elements in their mix of gaming preference. This is for gaming veterans, new players and those wanting to dip their feet in the world of deadly monsters.

Reviewer's Score: 9/10 | Originally Posted: 05/27/11

Game Release: Monster Hunter Tri (US, 04/20/10)

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