Wild Hearts

Wild Hearts brings a fresh twist to the hunting genre, but it doesn't fully deliver on its potential. For $49.99, the lackluster performance on Switch 2 and some frustrating mechanics may leave players wanting more. Unless you’re a die-hard fan of the genre, it might be better to wait for updates or patches before jumping in.

Current gameplay feels a bit clunky, partly due to the performance hiccups that occur, especially in chaotic hunts. The frame drops can be frustrating, making it hard to line up your attacks or execute combos effectively. Visually, the game has its moments, but it doesn’t push the Switch 2 to its limits. Overall, it lacks the polish of better entries in the genre, like Monster Hunter Rise, which maintains a smoother experience and clearer mechanics. While the gadget system for creating traps adds an interesting layer to combat, the AI can often be more of a hindrance than a help. If you’re patient and enjoy figuring out systems, there’s potential here, but casual players might find it an uphill battle.

In Wild Hearts, you’ll hunt massive beasts using both weapons and ancient technology. The Karakuri system lets you build traps and tools mid-battle for strategic advantages. Playing solo is an option, but the game is designed for co-op, where teamwork can lead to some thrilling moments. You'll often be dodging attacks and setting up traps while managing your resources.