Arkveld, Monster Hunter Wilds’ mysterious and intimidating flagship monster, is ready to challenge players in the game’s upcoming second open beta. The beta will be available from February 6 to February 9 and again from February 13 to February 16 — two separate weekends for players to experience Wilds before its February 28th release.
Fans of the series had a strong hunch that the flagship monster would be included in the second open beta, as Capcom is known for featuring its flagship monsters in demo fights weeks before a game’s release.
This won’t be an easy battle. Arkveld’s hunt is a high-level quest, similar to what Capcom has done with previous entries. Players already struggled against Malzeno in Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak’s demo, just as they did with Nergigante and Velkhana in World and Iceborne. Now, with Arkveld, the challenge will be even greater, especially with Wilds’ new controls and mechanics.
Longtime fans know that Monster Hunter’s flagship monsters play a crucial role in the story, typically appearing just before the game's true final boss. Nergigante led the way to Xeno’Jiva, Magnamalo to Narwa, and now, Arkveld will likely serve as the final stepping stone to whatever awaits in Monster Hunter Wilds’ endgame. Either way, excitement is at an all-time high.
According to the game’s website, Arkveld doesn’t fit into any existing monster classification. It’s a creature that was supposed to be extinct but has somehow returned to haunt the Forbidden Lands. It’s a true “???” — and for Hunters, that’s never a good sign.
The latest trailer from the Monster Hunter Showcase gave us a glimpse of Arkveld’s terrifying abilities. It can use its whip-like muscles to hit players from afar and absorb powers from various monsters, including Apex monsters such as Rey Dau, potentially taking its thunder powers. If this holds true, Arkveld’s hunt will be a dynamic battle, influenced by which Apex monsters are present in the locale. If it leeches off Uth Duna’s abilities, for example, it might gain aquatic powers.
It’s a terrifying thought — but exactly the kind of challenge a Monster Hunter flagship is known for.
Fans, myself included, are beyond excited to take on this beast. Who knows how many carts and ‘Quest Failed’ screens I’ll rack up? But I’ve faced flagships before, just like countless other players, and we’ve conquered them all. This time will be no different.
Bring it on.