The best Monster Hunter games truly make the most of the series’ unique premise. Since its debut two decades ago, it has pioneered a compelling loop that keeps players engaged. With co-op at its core, the stakes always feel meaningful. However, its popularity was once confined to Japan until recent years. Now, with each entry, Capcom keeps iterating to make it more approachable for newcomers. In this article, we’ll rank the best Monster Hunter games and guide you on where to start or revisit.

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1. Monster Hunter: World

Monster Hunter: World is a seismic game-changer that transformed the series. The new world's flora and fauna feel alive, with seamless maps and monsters engaging in turf wars. Its core systems were overhauled, making it simpler and more intuitive. It's a more approachable entry point for new players and had bizarre collaborations like playing as Geralt from The Witcher. The Iceborne expansion is the best Master Mode/G-Rank expansion in the series.

For example, gathering materials became a breeze, and tracking monsters was more straightforward. The ability to call for help from other hunters added to the cooperative experience. This game truly made Monster Hunter a global phenomenon.

It managed the nearly impossible feat of taking a complex franchise and making it accessible without sacrificing its depth. It's no wonder it became a favorite among both new and veteran players.

2. Monster Hunter Rise

Monster Hunter Rise can be seen as a more arcadey spin-off. Monsters are visible on the map from the start, and the dependable Palamutes allow for speedy hunts. The Wirebugs add a new dimension to verticality, enhancing the gameplay.

While purists might miss some of the original essence, the game brings in wild ideas and a charming feudal Japan aesthetic. The tower defense-style Rampage mode, although less interesting, doesn't take away from the overall experience.

It's a great debut for Capcom's franchise on the Nintendo Switch, providing new tools to the established arsenal and acting as a welcoming point of entry for newcomers.

3. Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate

The Western release of Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate was a grand affair. It was one of the most gargantuan entries, with elevated hunts and more verticality. The new Insect Glaive weapon allowed hunters to vault in the air and even mount monsters.

The improved localisation effort better appealed to a global audience, honing in on the game's charms. Despite some old system quirks, it remains one of the best 3DS games of all time.

The reason even the smallest reward feels like an achievement is because of how every system feeds into the gameplay. It's a testament to the game's design and attention to detail.

4. Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate

"Generations" is a fitting part of this title as it draws a line under the series' legacy. The Ultimate edition adds more missions and new monsters, making it a greatest hits package. The flashy Hunter Arts are a worthwhile addition that freshens up the weapon types.

However, when compared to Monster Hunter World, its systems feel a bit creaky. But it still offers enough content to keep players busy for over 100 hours.

This Switch version shows the evolution of the series while still maintaining its core charm.

5. Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate

Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate is a turning point as Capcom switched to Nintendo platforms. The expanded edition on Wii U and 3DS includes tougher monsters like Brachydios and is the series' HD debut.

You can even transfer save data between the Wii U and 3DS versions, making it perfect for co-op hunts with friends. Underwater hunts were a unique addition, although they were a bit of a pain.

Its high learning curve may deter some players, but with patience and resourcefulness, it's a rewarding experience.

6. Monster Hunter Freedom Unite

Monster Hunter Freedom Unite cemented the series as a portable powerhouse. With G-rank included from the start, it's the most complete package. The introduction of Palicos made the solo grind more bearable.

Although there was frustrating busywork between hunts, the game's strength lies in its portable nature. In the West, it's only available on PSP, but it became a must-have for PSP fans.

It shows how Capcom has continuously refined the series for portable gaming.

7. Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin

This is a significant improvement over the first Monster Hunter Stories entry. With an anime style inspired by Breath of the Wild and more monster types, it feels like a rich side-story.

The rock-paper-scissor battle system with quicktime button-mashing is tactical and riveting. Unfortunately, the Switch hardware struggles with the technical demands.

It offers a different take on the Monster Hunter universe and is worth checking out on PC or PS4.

8. Monster Hunter Freedom

Monster Hunter Freedom is essentially a port of the first game with the expanded "G-rank" mode. Putting the game on the PSP was a game-changer as it featured local wireless multiplayer.

In Japan, where portable gaming dominates, it was transformative. However, without an online mode, it was limited if you didn't know anyone nearby.

It shows how Capcom has expanded and refined the series over the years.

9. Monster Hunter Now

Monster Hunter Now is Monster Hunter's answer to Pokémon Go. It's an augmented reality game played on smartphones, where you fight monsters in the real world.

It translates the core Monster Hunter loop into a short and fun format. The visuals match the mainline series, but it lacks the depth and strategy of the main games.

It's a fun diversion for those who want a quick Monster Hunter fix.

10. Monster Hunter

The first entry of the series is the hardest to love and go back to. Influenced by Phantasy Star Online, it was released on PS2 without built-in online capabilities.

Most players went it alone, missing out on the unique feature. The control scheme and camera issues made it difficult to play. But the core foundations of Monster Hunter are still there.

For those who managed to go online and deal with lag issues, they saw the game's potential.