Monster Hunter World Launch: Review Roundup (Updated)

Monster Hunter World's release date has come around fast, with just hours left until the game is playable around the world on both PS4 and Xbox One. A PC release is coming later this year, but until then it's just console players who can enjoy the open-world action.

But how enjoyable is it? You might already have an idea if you've joined in one of the game's multiple PS4 betas. Now, however, reviews of the full game have begun to go live around the world. In our verdict, we said World is "likely the biggest and best that the franchise has ever been." Check out our in-depth thoughts in our Monster Hunter World review. Alternatively, read on for a selection of other critics' reviews, or head over to GameSpot sister site Metacritic for a wider view of critical reception.

• Game: Monster Hunter World
• Developer / Publisher: Capcom
• Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC
• Release date: Out now (PS4, Xbox One) / 2018 (PC)
• Price: US $60 / £50 / AU $110

GameSpot -- 8/10

"Ever since the title was first announced last year, it was clear that Capcom was gunning for something grander than Monster Hunter Generations. It has succeeded, and this is likely the biggest and best that the franchise has ever been. It's not just the comparative depth of the narrative; it also boasts almost seamless integration between combat systems that were previously incomprehensible for amateurs. The Monster Hunter formula has definitely honed its claws, and all the above factors play their part in making Monster Hunter World a meaningful evolution for the series at large." -- Ginny Woo [Full review]

Polygon -- 9/10

"Monster Hunter: World is still complex. It still won't hold your hand through parts and may require a few friends for optimal enjoyment. It isn't for everybody, but if you give it a little time and work, it's a world worth visiting." -- Chelsea Stark [Full review]

IGN -- 9.5/10

"Whether or not it's the best, this is certainly the most audacious Monster Hunter game. World takes a dramatic leap into a look, feel, and size that feels truly new, simultaneously staying true to the series' ideals by maintaining the addictive loop of combat, intimidating monsters and meaningful upgrades that fans love. The sheer depth and commitment required is still intense, but it clearly isn't Capcom's aim to court a casual crowd. This is as all-consuming and incredible a ride as ever." -- Joe Skrebels [Full review]

Eurogamer -- Essential

"Invest a little, though, and you'll get an awful lot back. The truth of Monster Hunter--and arguably its greatest strength--is that you're never truly its master, and that every player, be they novice or veteran, is always learning something new. Monster Hunter World sees 13 years of evolution come crashing together with some new influences to create a very exciting breed of beast. This has always been a superlative series; with the release of World, it's only become easier to see that's an undoubtable truth." -- Martin Robinson [Full review]

GamesRadar+ -- 5/5

"Monster Hunter World is an incredible achievement. It manages the nearly impossible feat of taking a franchise known (and in many corners beloved) for it's incredible complexity and depth and making it significantly more approachable, without in any way stripping it down or diminishing it." --Alan Bradley [Full review]

GamesBeat -- 90/100

"Monster Hunter World is one of the more rewarding action role-playing games I've played in recent years. The game is enjoyable either solo or with other players, and it manages to take advantage of modern hardware to envelop you in a beautiful world. I never got into Monster Hunter before, but now I can't wait for this game to officially be out so I have more people to play with." -- Mike Minotti [Full review]

Destructoid -- 9/10

"If you've been skipping out on Monster Hunter games for a while because they seem to blend together, jumping into World is your chance to get in. Just know that Capcom hasn't really shaken up the formula enough to piss off veterans or appeal to people who don't welcome grinding with open arms." -- Chris Carter [Full review]