Capcom is refining Monster Hunter Wilds' performance ahead of its release while exploring ways to make the game more accessible to PC players with lower-end hardware. Here's what we know about the developer's optimization plans.
Capcom Fine-Tuning Monster Hunter Wilds Performance
Efforts to Reduce PC Hardware Demands
Capcom has confirmed ongoing performance improvements for Monster Hunter Wilds, with the game's German social media account sharing updates on January 19, 2025.
The developer showcased enhanced gameplay fluidity through new footage featuring a hunter battling the avian brute wyvern Quematrice. The video highlights the PS5's upgraded Prioritize Framerate mode, delivering smoother performance at the cost of some visual quality.
Similar optimizations are being implemented for the PC version, with Capcom specifically investigating whether they can reduce GPU requirements for the full release. "We're applying comparable performance improvements and evaluating whether we can lower the recommended GPU specifications," reads their social media post.
The current minimum spec calls for an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Super or AMD Radeon RX 5600 XT. Successful optimization could potentially allow players with mid-range or even some budget graphics cards to enjoy the game - significantly expanding its potential player base.
Capcom also plans to release a free benchmark tool, helping players determine optimal settings and confirm whether their systems can handle the game. These optimization efforts might spare many hunters from premature hardware upgrades.
Turbulent First Open Beta Experience
The October-November 2024 beta test revealed significant performance concerns, with Steam players particularly vocal about technical problems. Many reported jarringly low-polygon models for both NPCs and monsters - with some claiming the visuals resembled those from PlayStation 1-era titles.
Beyond the graphical oddities, numerous testers encountered frustrating frame rate fluctuations and other performance hiccups, even on high-end gaming rigs. While some found workarounds that improved stability, these typically came with substantial visual downgrades.
Capcom addressed these concerns on November 1, 2024, stating: "Visual artifacts occurring with Frame Generation enabled in certain environments will be resolved in the final release, which already represents a significant improvement over the beta build."
Players will soon get hands-on time with these purported improvements during a second open beta running February 7-10 and 14-17 on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and Steam. This test will feature familiar series creature Gypceros and another yet-to-be-revealed monster, though it remains unclear whether all current optimizations will be included in this preview build.
