Weapon Skills

Monster Hunter Wilds introduces a significant overhaul to its skill system, with a greater emphasis on weapon-integrated skills. Unlike previous titles where skills were primarily tied to armor, Wilds allows weapons to possess their own dedicated skills, offering more build flexibility and making weapon switching less punishing. This change aims to empower players to customize their playstyle directly through their chosen armaments.

The new system separates skills into two main categories: offensive skills are now predominantly found on weapons, while defensive and supportive skills are more commonly found on armor. For example, weapons might come with skills like Attack Boost or Speed Sharpening, enhancing your offensive capabilities. Armor, on the other hand, will focus on utility with skills such as Speed Eating. This division encourages a more holistic approach to gear building, where weapon choice directly influences your combat prowess.

Furthermore, skills on weapons are not static. As you upgrade your weapons, you can unlock additional skills. The example of the Hope Blade demonstrates this: its base version might have Speed Sharpening Level 1, but upon upgrading to Hope Blade III, it gains Critical Eye Level 1, alongside increased attack power. This progression system ensures that your chosen weapon remains relevant and powerful throughout your journey. In addition to these pre-built skills, weapons will also feature Decoration slots, similar to armor, allowing for further customization with Jewels to fine-tune your build and maximize its effectiveness.

Key changes to Weapon Skills:

Dedicated skills on weapons (e.g., Attack Boost, Speed Sharpening).
Armor focuses on defensive/supportive skills (e.g., Speed Eating).
Skills are retained and can be added upon weapon upgrades.
Weapons feature Decoration slots for further customization.

This evolution in the skill system promises a deeper level of player agency and strategic depth in Monster Hunter Wilds.