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Monster Hunter Wilds is due to be released on February 28, 2025, but there’s a chance to try out the game before then with the Open Beta Test that’s taking place this week. It’s available to those with a PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and on Steam. PlayStation Plus users, however, will be able to jump in a few days early. Ready to set off on a new hunt? Here’s everything you need to know about the beta times, what’s included in the test, and the rewards you can expect for participating if you purchase the full game.

What Are the Start Times of the MH Wilds Open Beta Test?

As mentioned, PlayStation Plus users will get exclusive early access to the Monster Hunter Wilds. The beta test for PS+ Subscribers will be as follows:

The beta will then become available to those on Xbox Series X|S, Steam, and PS5.

MH Wilds Open Beta Test Details

The beta allows you to spend hours crafting your hunter in the Character Creation menu, participate in the first mission of the story, and explore the new locale of the Windward Plains.

Character Creation

Monster Hunter Wilds has a Character Creation menu where you can choose one of the presets or spend hours fine-tuning your hunter. You’ll have unlimited Character Edit Vouchers to use, so you can play around with your hunter’s look as much as you want during the test period. This also applies to your Palico, so your hunter and their companion can be ready for the full game, as creation data for both can be transferred over when MH Wilds is released.

Hunt a Chatacabra

When your character has been crafted, it’ll be time to jump into the Story Trial. You’ll be able to play out the opening cutscene of Wilds and hunt down your first monster — the Chatacabra.

While participating in your first hunt, you’ll be taken through the basic tutorials, including the new Focus Mode, which highlights the weak spots and wounds on a monster so you can land maximum damage. This is also where you’ll be able to try out the 14 Weapon Types, especially to see what they’re capable of in terms of combos and charged attacks.

Track a Pack of Doshaguma

After taking down the Chatacabra, you’ll return to camp and be able to explore the locale or accept an additional quest of a Doshaguma hunt. These monsters come in packs, so you’ll need to isolate the Doshaguma alpha to make slaying it easier. Chuck a few Dung Pods at the group, and you’ll have the alpha Doshaguma all to yourself.

Explore the Windward Plains

The Windward Plains has plenty to discover in the beta. Just open up the partial or detailed map and you’ll be able to explore what the locale has to offer at any given time. You’ll find outbreaks of smaller monsters, herbs and mining spots, and even upsurges of environmental hazards you can use to help you tackle beasts.

MH Wilds Beta Participation Bonus and Rewards

Participating in the Open Beta Test for Monster Hunter Wilds will grant you a handy set of bonus items if you purchase the full version of the game. These will be:

• Bonus Pendant
• Mega Potion x10
• Ration x5
• Lifepowder x5
• Max Potion x2
• Herbal Medicine x2
• Nulberry x2
• Armor Sphere x5