After popular demand, Monster Hunter: Wilds's second beta test will launch early next month, just before its February 28 release. The open beta will be available from February 6 to February 9 and February 13 to February 16. Unlike the first beta, PlayStation 5 players will not have early access, making this open beta accessible to all supported consoles immediately.
This is an excellent opportunity for players to experience Monster Hunter: Wilds again, particularly for those who missed out on the first open beta. However, it is worth noting that the second open beta will not include the pre-launch updates that CAPCOM recently announced, such as hit-stop effects, improved performance, and weapon balancing.
Characters created during the first open beta will carry over to the second but will not transfer to the game’s full launch. Nevertheless, this provides a valuable opportunity for new players to experiment with character creation, making virtual replicas of themselves or making something crazier.
In addition to hunting familiar monsters such as Rey Dau, Doshaguma, Balahara, and Chatacabra, the second open beta features one of the most exciting surprises: the return of the Gypceros, which has been absent from the franchise for seven years.
The Gypceros is a ferocious beast capable of blinding unsuspecting players with its lamp-like crest atop its head. Longtime fans of the series will be pleased to see its notorious "fake death" tactic return, along with its distinctive pink tail and poisonous sacs. While veteran players will welcome the return of Gypceros, newer players might find it their first significant challenge.
Fans hope that CAPCOM will sneak one of the leaked monsters, maybe even its flagship, Arkveld, into the beta.
Players participating in this second open beta will also receive the “Stuffed Felyne Teddy” pendant, which they can claim when the game officially launches on February 28.
The first open beta provided a fun experience for new and returning players. The second open beta will remain largely the same as the first, with no significant changes. Players will once again explore the Windward Plains and face off against the same monsters.
Monster Hunter: Wilds is shaping up to be one of the biggest releases this year, alongside Grand Theft Auto VI. With enhanced exploration elements, including a seamless open world and various quality-of-life improvements, it marks a significant leap forward for the franchise.