Dauntless was once supposed to offer a free alternative to Monster Hunter but fell behind with the release of Monster Hunter World. On December 5, 2024, the multiplayer attempts a restart, bringing not only a major update but also making its debut on Steam.
What kind of game is this? Dauntless is a free-to-play game where you take on the role of a “Slayer” to hunt monsters. Similar to Monster Hunter, you collect monster parts to craft equipment and weapons. You can venture out either alone or in co-op with other Slayers.
Dauntless offers various modes:
- Hunting Grounds: Open worlds where multiple monsters can be hunted at the selected difficulty level
- Escalations: Consecutive challenges in a rogue-like environment
- Trials: Arena battles against single opponents with varying challenges
- Feuds: Over 600 levels with increasing difficulty for multiple Slayers
You can play the game on PS4 / PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, and PC. Until now, the title was only available on Epic Games, but with the update, it will finally be available on Steam starting December 5, 2024. However, an Epic Games account will still be required to play via Steam.
A new beginning with Dauntless: Awakening
What makes the update different? Under the name Dauntless: Awakening, the release on Steam comes with a huge update that revamps the game completely. In addition to a fresh graphical overhaul, the progression system, main and side quests, and difficulty level have also been revised.
Additionally, seasonal hunter passes and a type of loot boxes are to be introduced, which will contain cosmetic items. The developers promise “as much transparency and integrity as possible” regarding the loot boxes (via playdauntless.com).
Moreover, the monsters have been equipped with new behaviors, and the worlds have been enhanced with more exploration incentives. The interface, combat experience, and some other aspects will also receive a revamp. You can find the complete overview of all content and changes here.
Whether the new beginning brings the desired success remains to be seen. Dauntless certainly offers a good foundation, as it incorporates the core elements of Monster Hunter games in a free and fresh variant.
The studio behind Dauntless has not had it easy in the past, even having to cancel new projects. You can read here about what the problem was and why Dauntless was not as successful in its initial effort as planned: A great MMO wanted to be like Monster Hunter World: Now the studio is facing closure
