At the beginning of February, a second Open Beta for Monster Hunter Wilds is finally on the way. However, it will take place without the improvements and adjustments announced in the Pre-Launch Community Update. This seems to concern the community.
What does the Beta include? The second Open Beta runs in two phases at the beginning of February: The first phase takes place from February 7, 2025, 4:00 AM to February 10, 3:59 AM. The second phase begins on February 14 and ends on February 17, 3:59 AM.
Content-wise, this connects to the Beta in November 2024, allowing you to create your character, play the beginning of the story, and hunt Doshaguma and Chatacabra again. Additionally, you will be able to hunt the already known monster Gypceros from other parts.
Further content has not yet been confirmed but is expected to follow soon. However, Capcom stated that all improvements confirmed in the last Community Update would not be part of the Beta. This has led to discussions within the community.
Fans are concerned that the second Beta could create a negative impression
Why is the community worried? In a thread on Reddit, there is currently heated discussion. On one hand, there is great excitement about another opportunity to play Monster Hunter Wilds in advance, while on the other hand, some fans see a problem: the first Beta had numerous technical issues in November 2024 that upset many players (see Steam).
Therefore, the community is considering how the mostly unchanged state in the second Beta might be perceived by players who want to check out the game but do not follow the news closely (via Reddit).
Some desire a clear disclaimer for everyone who may not be fully aware that this version does not correspond to the full version, even though the Beta takes place shortly before release (via Reddit). Others even fear a backlash because they worry that even a disclaimer might be ignored. However, they overlook that this is a Beta and not a Demo.
A Beta, not a full-fledged Demo
Why is there a second Beta? In a video announcing the Beta (via YouTube), producer Ryozo Tsujimoto says that many fans reported missing the first Beta or simply wanted to play again. Therefore, the decision was made to run a second round.
He also emphasizes that the team is working hard behind the scenes to process the feedback from the first Beta and is fully focused on improving the player experience in the full version. He continues to ask for understanding that these adjustments and improvements will not be part of the Beta.
The second Beta is primarily intended as a second chance for players to check out the game in advance one more time. It is important to note that this is intentionally referred to as a Beta and not a Demo. This is not a scaled-down version of the full version but access to a technical test.
This primarily concerns server load and aims to prevent future server issues at release. Over 360,000 players participated within 20 minutes during the first Beta in November 2024, and around 100 players could participate simultaneously per lobby.
With the approaching release, many fans are considering whether they should take time off for the launch. For those, the second Beta could be a good opportunity to reflect on this again: Is it worth taking time off for the release of Monster Hunter Wilds? Community expresses concerns about wasted time
