New Monster Hunter Wilds Trailer Reveals New Monster Lala Barina and A New Locale

During Gamescom 2024’s Opening Game Night Live event, Capcom revealed a new gameplay trailer that showcases new characters, a new locale called the Scarlet Forest, and a new massive monster Lala Barina.

With this trailer, Capcom also confirms the return of Support Hunters as players that prefer a solo and offline experience can still call out for Hunter NPCs to join your hunt.

Capcom also provided new details about Support Hunters and key details about the game.

New Hunting Ground: The Scarlet Forest, a newly revealed locale in the Forbidden Lands, is a lush setting with towering greenery contrasted by waters dyed a crimson hue. Like the other ecosystems in Monster Hunter Wilds, the Scarlet Forest is a dynamic environment that undergoes periods of Plenty, Inclemency, and Fallow that transform the landscape and wildlife residing within it.

New Monster: One creature that calls the Scarlet Forest home is Lala Barina. Part of the Temnoceran class of monsters rarely seen in the series, the Lala Barina possesses sharp, spindly limbs and can unfurl its thorax into a massive, rose-like form that is as treacherous as it is beautiful.

Apex Spotlight: Each region in Monster Hunter Wilds is ruled by an apex monster. Downstream from the Scarlet Forest in the previously revealed Windward Plains, a monster known as Rey Dau reigns supreme. Initially glimpsed at Summer Game Fest, the Flying Wyvern was unveiled today in its full glory. The apex predator of the Windward Plains is adapted to the harsh conditions of the Sandtides that transform its dusty grassland and can unleash destructive electrical strikes that pose a threat to even the most experienced hunters.  

Support Hunters: Whether playing solo or online, Support Hunters can fill openings in players’ hunting parties. These helpful NPCs include Olivia, a hammer-wielding member of the Forbidden Lands Research Commission, who will also play a key role in the story along with her elite Palico, Athos.

More Moves: In addition to new allies, hunters can also engage with adversaries in fresh ways. These include the Power Clash, where blocking certain attacks can lock hunters into a physical struggle, and Offset Attacks, where a well-timed hit can interrupt a monster. Succeeding with these new abilities can knock monsters off balance to provide critical openings or trigger powerful special attacks.

Windsong Village: The latest trailer also introduced Kunafa, a settlement hunters will visit in the Windward Plains. One of multiple communities in the Forbidden Lands, this village has existed here for generations and possesses its own unique culture. Shaped by its surroundings and local wildlife, Kunafa raises livestock for cheese production and is also home to Seikrets, the trusty mounts hunters will soon discover to be indispensable companions when exploring the wilds. 

Seamless Exploration: When away from base camp, hunters can embark on expeditions with a number of objectives in mind. Quests can begin by targeting a monster in the area using their map or simply by striking one when out in the field. Players can also prepare for their next hunt without returning to base by using their portable BBQ grill for a stat boost or by taking a rest at a Pop-up Camp. These forward operating bases are convenient spots to manage items and equipment, serve as return points after fainting, and can be used as fast-travel destinations.

Monster Hunter Wilds still has no release date as it’s slated to release sometime in 2025 on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam, but marketing has been ramping up since the start of this year. Recently, they released short videos featuring each weapon type that will be available in the game as a built-up to the eventual release of the new gameplay trailer shown above.

---