“Monster Hunter: World,” developed by Capcom, is an action role-playing game that has captivated players with its intricate gameplay mechanics, vast open world, and a plethora of characters that enrich the overall experience. The game’s characters, ranging from the playable Hunter to a diverse cast of NPCs, contribute significantly to the narrative and the immersive world of Astera and beyond. In this review, we’ll delve into the depth, variety, and impact of the characters in “Monster Hunter: World,” exploring their roles, personalities, and contributions to the game.
Table of Contents
The Hunter
Character Customization and Personalization
The Hunter, the player’s avatar in “Monster Hunter: World,” is one of the most customizable characters in any RPG. At the start of the game, players are given a robust character creation tool that allows for extensive customization. From facial features, hair styles, and skin tone to more detailed options like scars and facial tattoos, the character creation system ensures that players can create a unique and personalized protagonist. This personalization extends to armor and weapons, which can be crafted and customized throughout the game, allowing players to visually and functionally tailor their Hunter to their playstyle.
Silent Protagonist with Expressive Actions
While the Hunter remains a largely silent protagonist, their personality is conveyed through expressive animations and interactions with other characters. Whether it’s the determined look before a hunt, the celebratory gestures after a victory, or the cautious approach in dangerous environments, the Hunter’s actions speak volumes. This silent but expressive nature allows players to project their own personalities and emotions onto their character, enhancing the sense of immersion and personal investment in the game’s world.
The Handler
The Friendly and Enthusiastic Partner
The Handler is one of the first characters the player meets and serves as the Hunter’s guide and partner throughout the game. Her role is crucial as she provides missions, offers advice, and keeps the player informed about the world and its inhabitants. The Handler is characterized by her upbeat and enthusiastic personality, which brings a sense of warmth and optimism to the game. Her positive attitude and constant encouragement help to keep players motivated, even during the most challenging hunts.
Deepening the Narrative
The Handler’s backstory, revealed through various in-game interactions and cutscenes, adds depth to her character. Her motivations, fears, and dedication to the field team are explored, making her more than just a quest-giver. She is shown to be brave and resourceful, often joining the player in the field and assisting in various capacities. This makes her an integral part of the team, rather than just a supporting character.
The Commander
The Experienced Leader
The Commander is the seasoned leader of the Research Commission. His experience and wisdom are evident in his demeanor and decision-making. The Commander’s primary role is to oversee the operations in Astera and ensure that the Commission’s goals are met. His authoritative presence and calm demeanor provide a sense of stability and assurance to the team, especially during critical moments in the storyline.
A Mentor Figure
Throughout the game, the Commander serves as a mentor to the Hunter, offering guidance and sharing his vast knowledge about the New World. His respect for the Hunter’s abilities grows as the game progresses, highlighting a dynamic relationship based on mutual respect and trust. This mentor-mentee relationship adds a layer of depth to the Commander’s character, showcasing his role as not just a leader, but also a teacher and protector.
The Field Team Leader
The Skilled and Reliable Hunter
The Field Team Leader is another key character who supports the Hunter in various ways. As an experienced hunter himself, he offers valuable insights and practical advice that aid the player in their quests. His competence and reliability make him a trusted ally in the field.
Character Development and Interaction
The Field Team Leader’s interactions with the Hunter and other characters reveal his dedication to the team’s mission and his concern for their well-being. His character development is evident as he transitions from being a supportive figure to taking on more complex roles in the storyline, including participating in high-stakes missions and making strategic decisions that impact the entire team.
The Admiral
The Eccentric and Powerful Figure
The Admiral is one of the most memorable characters in “Monster Hunter: World” due to his larger-than-life personality and physical prowess. He is characterized by his eccentric behavior, immense strength, and fearlessness. The Admiral’s flamboyant style and unorthodox methods often provide comic relief, balancing the game’s serious moments with lighthearted interactions.
Strategic Importance
Despite his eccentricities, the Admiral plays a crucial role in the game’s narrative. His deep understanding of the Elder Dragons and his strategic thinking are vital to the Research Commission’s success. He often leads the charge in some of the game’s most challenging missions, showcasing his importance not just as a comic character but as a strategic asset.
The Ecological Research Team
Scholars and Scientists
The Ecological Research Team is composed of various scholars and scientists dedicated to studying the New World’s flora and fauna. Characters like the Chief Ecologist and the Endemic Life Researcher are pivotal in providing the player with critical information about the monsters and environments they encounter. These characters are characterized by their intellectual curiosity and dedication to understanding the world around them.
Contribution to World-Building
The members of the Ecological Research Team contribute significantly to the game’s world-building. Their detailed observations and studies add a layer of realism and depth to the game’s ecosystem. Through their research, players gain a better understanding of the intricate relationships between the various creatures and the environment, enhancing the immersive experience.
The Smithy
The Master Craftsman
The Smithy is another essential character in “Monster Hunter: World.” As the game’s primary blacksmith, he is responsible for crafting and upgrading the Hunter’s weapons and armor. The Smithy is characterized by his gruff exterior and no-nonsense attitude, but his craftsmanship and dedication to his work are unparalleled.
Building Relationships Through Craft
Interacting with the Smithy and his team helps players appreciate the effort and skill that goes into creating their gear. The Smithy’s knowledge and expertise are evident in every piece of equipment he creates, and his occasional bits of advice or commentary add a personal touch to the crafting process. This relationship between the Hunter and the Smithy underscores the importance of teamwork and trust in achieving success in the New World.
The Meowscular Chef
The Delightful Felyne Cook
The Meowscular Chef is a standout character due to his unique design and charming personality. This burly Felyne cook is responsible for preparing meals that provide the Hunter with various buffs and bonuses. His culinary expertise and the playful interactions in the Canteen make him a beloved character among players.
Adding Flavor to the Game
The Meowscular Chef’s presence adds a delightful layer of charm and humor to the game. His exaggerated cooking animations and the tantalizing dishes he prepares not only provide functional benefits to the player but also create memorable moments that contribute to the game’s overall appeal. The Chef’s character embodies the game’s blend of serious action and whimsical fun.
The Research Commission’s Support Staff
Diverse and Dedicated Team
The Research Commission’s support staff, including characters like the Provisioner, the Chief Botanist, and the Resource Center representatives, play crucial roles in supporting the Hunter’s endeavors. Each of these characters is dedicated to ensuring that the Hunter has the resources and support needed to succeed in their missions.
Enhancing the Community Feel
These characters, though not always in the spotlight, enhance the sense of community within Astera. Their dedication and hard work behind the scenes underscore the collaborative effort required to thrive in the New World. Interacting with them adds depth to the player’s experience, making the world feel more alive and interconnected.
Rivals and Antagonists
The Rival Hunters
Throughout the game, players encounter rival hunters who add a competitive element to the narrative. Characters like the Ace Hunter and the Serious Handler represent other teams within the Research Commission, showcasing the diversity of skills and approaches among the hunters. These rivalries, while friendly, add an extra layer of motivation and challenge for the player.
Elder Dragons as Characters
In “Monster Hunter: World,” the Elder Dragons are more than just formidable foes; they are characters in their own right. Each Elder Dragon, from Nergigante to Xeno’jiiva, has a distinct personality and lore that makes them unique. The game’s narrative often delves into the history and behavior of these majestic creatures, portraying them as ancient beings with their own place in the world’s ecosystem.
Conclusion
The characters in “Monster Hunter: World” are a testament to the game’s depth and attention to detail. From the customizable Hunter to the diverse cast of NPCs, each character contributes to the rich tapestry of the game’s world. The interactions, backstories, and development of these characters create a dynamic and immersive experience that keeps players engaged and invested in their journey through the New World.
The Handler’s enthusiasm, the Commander’s wisdom, the Admiral’s eccentricity, and the Meowscular Chef’s charm are just a few examples of how “Monster Hunter: World” successfully blends personality with functionality. These characters, along with the numerous others that populate the game, not only support the player’s quest but also enrich the narrative and the overall gaming experience.
In essence, the characters of “Monster Hunter: World” are integral to its success. They provide players with companionship, guidance, and challenges, making the game more than just a series of hunts but a vibrant and engaging adventure. Each character, with their unique traits and roles, helps to create a world that feels alive and worth exploring, ensuring that “Monster Hunter: World” remains a beloved title in the realm of action RPGs.