Tag Archives: Monster Hunter Now

Games, Gaming, News

Monster Hunter Wilds is doing great despite initial PC reception on performance

The gaming world has been abuzz with the release of Monster Hunter Wilds, the latest installment in Capcom’s iconic franchise. Launched on February 28, 2025, this action-packed RPG has not only captivated players with its immersive gameplay but also shattered sales records, cementing its place as a monumental success for Capcom.

Within just one month of its release, Monster Hunter Wilds achieved a staggering milestone of 10 million copies sold across platforms, setting a new first-month sales record for Capcom. This feat is even more impressive considering that the game sold over 8 million copies within the first three days, making it the fastest-selling title in the company’s history. The introduction of crossplay—a first for the series—played a significant role in broadening its appeal, allowing players on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC to hunt together seamlessly.

Capcom attributes this success to the game’s innovative features, such as the new “Focus Mode” mechanic and the seamless transition between settlements and ecosystems, which have enhanced the overall gaming experience. The game’s simultaneous global release further amplified its reach, drawing in both series veterans and newcomers alike.

Gaming Performance: A Mixed Bag

While Monster Hunter Wilds has been lauded for its lush environments and dynamic weather systems, its performance on PC has been a point of contention. The game, powered by Capcom’s proprietary RE Engine, offers stunning visuals but demands significant hardware capabilities. Players with high-end GPUs have reported smooth gameplay, but those with mid-range or lower-end systems have faced challenges, including frame rate drops and stability issues.

Capcom has acknowledged these concerns and is actively working on improvements. The first Title Update, scheduled for April 4, 2025, aims to address key performance issues, such as reducing VRAM usage and upgrading the DirectStorage version on Steam. These updates are expected to enhance stability and provide a smoother experience for PC players.

Updates and Community Engagement

Capcom’s commitment to post-launch support is evident in its roadmap for Monster Hunter Wilds. The upcoming Title Update will not only improve performance but also introduce new content, including a fan-favorite monster and the Grand Hub, an in-game social space for players. Future updates promise even more enhancements, from weapon balance adjustments to quality-of-life improvements, ensuring that the game continues to evolve and delight its community.

Monster Hunter Wilds has set a new benchmark for the franchise, blending innovative gameplay mechanics with the series’ beloved core elements. While its sales figures are a testament to its widespread appeal, the ongoing performance issues highlight the challenges of delivering a seamless experience across diverse platforms. As Capcom rolls out updates and engages with its player base, the future of Monster Hunter Wilds looks brighter than ever.

Business, Featured, Games, Gaming, News

Niantic to sell gaming division along Pokémon Go, Monster Hunter Now and other AR games

In a groundbreaking move, Niantic, the developer behind some of the most iconic augmented reality (AR) games, has confirmed the sale of its gaming division to Scopely, a mobile gaming powerhouse. This $3.5 billion deal marks a significant shift in the gaming landscape, with implications for beloved titles like Pokémon GO, Monster Hunter Now, and Pikmin Bloom. The acquisition also brings Scopely’s own hit, Monopoly GO!, into sharper focus as part of its expanding portfolio. But what does this mean for players, developers, and even industry giants like Nintendo? Let’s dive in.

Niantic’s decision to sell its gaming division comes as the company shifts its focus toward geospatial AI and real-world mapping technologies under a new entity, Niantic Spatial. While Pokémon GO remains a cultural phenomenon with over 100 million unique players in 2024, Niantic has struggled to replicate its success with other titles. This sale allows Niantic to double down on its new vision while ensuring its games continue to thrive under Scopely’s stewardship.

What This Means for Key Titles

  1. Pokémon GO: As the crown jewel of Niantic’s portfolio, Pokémon GO has set the standard for AR gaming. Scopely has assured players that the game will remain true to its spirit, with the original development team continuing to lead its evolution. However, concerns about Scopely’s monetization practices—known for aggressive in-app purchases in games like Monopoly GO!—have raised questions about the future of Pokémon GO‘s player-friendly model.
  2. Monster Hunter Now: This AR adaptation of Capcom’s popular franchise has gained traction since its release in 2023. Under Scopely, the game could see enhanced features and events, leveraging Scopely’s expertise in live services to deepen player engagement.
  3. Pikmin Bloom: A walking game that encourages exploration and community interaction, Pikmin Bloom aligns well with Scopely’s focus on social gaming. Players can expect continued support and possibly new updates to enrich the experience.
  4. Monopoly GO!: Already a top earner for Scopely, this game could benefit from cross-promotional opportunities with Niantic’s titles, creating a more interconnected gaming ecosystem.

Nintendo’s Role and the Saudi Connection

The sale also highlights a broader trend: the increasing influence of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) in the gaming industry. Scopely, backed by Saudi-owned Savvy Games Group, now holds a significant stake in AR gaming. This raises questions about how industry leaders like Nintendo will navigate this evolving landscape. With the PIF already owning an 8% stake in Nintendo, the Japanese gaming giant faces the challenge of maintaining its independence while adapting to a market increasingly shaped by external investments.

For players, the immediate future of Niantic’s games appears stable, with Scopely committed to preserving their core experiences. However, the long-term impact of this acquisition—particularly in terms of monetization and community engagement—remains to be seen. For Niantic, this marks a bold new chapter focused on geospatial AI, while Scopely solidifies its position as a leader in mobile gaming.

As the gaming industry continues to evolve, this deal serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between innovation, player satisfaction, and corporate strategy. Whether this new era will enhance or diminish the magic of games like Pokémon GO is a story still unfolding.