Capcom has commenced the release of new trailers for Monster Hunter Wilds' upcoming expansion, Ascendance, offering a glimpse into significant overhauls planned for all 14 weapon types. The expansion, slated for a 2027 release, is now expected to be detailed further during the Tokyo Game Show later this month, rather than at Gamescom 2026.
The publisher has started a daily video series, with each installment focusing on a specific weapon. The initial video highlights the Great Sword and introduces a new universal mechanic called 'Boosted Actions.' Capcom describes Boosted Actions as a new hunting ability accessible via the 'Boost Bracer' that expands the capabilities of each weapon. Players can build energy for the Boost Bracer by maintaining an aggressive offense, then activate Boost through a special Boost Driver attack or other weapon-specific maneuvers.
Unlocking Enhanced Abilities
Activating Boost enables new combos and enhanced attacks, providing hunters with greater control over formidable monsters. For the Great Sword, these enhanced abilities include a forward fling with the Boost Driver, the execution of explosive charged slashes, and the ability to chain together offset attacks. The provided footage demonstrates three potential methods for entering the Boosted state: activating a slow but high-damage Brace Boost move, switching into a stance with Quick Boost, or performing a specific combo that leads into the Boosted state.
It is suggested that dealing damage and exploiting monster weaknesses will contribute to filling a meter that governs the use of Boosted mode. The system appears to support up to three charges, though this may vary by weapon. The teasers reveal visually impressive new movesets, including a forceful hammer attack that seems to facilitate easier 'perfect guards' for a more aggressive playstyle, and a Charge Blade move described as a 'counter hadoken.' The Great Sword's trailer specifically showcases an aerial moveset, adding new layers of versatility.
Capcom appears to be encouraging a faster, more offensive approach to combat, possibly in response to the anticipated aggression of new and returning monsters. This shift may be welcomed by the community, potentially addressing some of the difficulty criticisms leveled against the game since its launch. Monster Hunter Wilds is available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC via Steam, with a Nintendo Switch 2 version also in development.