Here's Why Monster Hunter World Isn't Coming To Nintendo Switch

Monster Hunter World is just days away from launching on PS4 and Xbox One, while a PC release is also coming later this year. But Capcom has so far not announced a Nintendo Switch version of the open-world game (which is quite good, as you can read in our Monster Hunter World review). The game's co-directors, Kaname Fujioka and Yuya Tokuda, have now stated why they haven't yet brought the game to Nintendo's hybrid console, and if it could happen in the future.

"We don't have any plans for the Switch at the moment," the pair told IGN. "Part of the reason is that the title has been in development for almost four years. At the time we had to commit to our hardware choices, we decided on using the most powerful current generation consoles available at the time, which was PS4 and Xbox One. So [the decision was made] before the Switch was even announced or on sale.

"It's also because for every title we decide what [hardware is the best fit] for the concept. We don't just look at everything. It's more like, 'If we want to achieve this kind of game concept, where's the best place to achieve that?' For this title, the PS4 and Xbox One were the best fit for us."

Monster Hunter World is coming to PS4 and Xbox One this Friday, January 26. Be warned: the game requires a day-one patch that's pretty important, since you won't be able to play online without it. The 1.01 update will weigh in at roughly 815 MB, though the exact file size will likely vary depending on which console you're playing on. Most importantly, the update adds online multiplayer, event quests, chat, and other online features, meaning you won't be able to play Monster Hunter World online with other players or download any additional content until you've installed the patch.

Monster Hunter World's first big update, meanwhile, will arrive sometime this spring, adding the Deviljho monster. Capcom has also announced a retro Mega Man armor set for players' Palico companions, as well as a PS4-exclusive set of Horizon: Zero Dawn gear. A special edition Monster Hunter PS4 Pro bundle is also on the way. For more on the upcoming RPG, check out some of our Monster Hunter World gameplay.