Beta Players Adore and Fear New Monster Arkveld in Monster Hunter Wilds

The Monster Hunter Wilds beta is back, bringing thrilling new challenges to eager hunters. Among the highlights is the introduction of a formidable new adversary, Arkveld, which has sparked a mix of excitement and trepidation among players. As the flagship monster of Monster Hunter Wilds, Arkveld is not only the face of the game but also promises to be a pivotal part of players' adventures.

During the beta, hunters have the chance to confront the Chained Arkveld, with a tight 20-minute time limit and a maximum of five "faints" before failing the quest. This beast is no pushover; Arkveld is a colossal winged creature, wielding electric chains from its arms that it uses to unleash devastating, thunderous attacks. Its agility adds another layer of difficulty, making it a formidable foe that has even seasoned hunters meeting an untimely end, as they are frequently sent back to camp in a cart.

The new technology showcased in Monster Hunter Wilds is evident in Arkveld's dynamic movements and attacks. It uses its chains not only to strike but also to navigate the battlefield, reaching out with long, electrifying whips that can catch hunters off-guard. One particularly striking move has Arkveld grabbing a hunter, roaring menacingly, and then slamming them down—a spectacle that has left many players in awe and a bit thunderstruck.

Beyond the thrill of the hunt, Arkveld has been causing some light-hearted chaos, as seen in a video shared on the r/MHWilds subreddit where the monster disrupts a hunter's meal, proving that the wilds are no place for a peaceful lunch break.

Despite its daunting presence, the Monster Hunter community seems invigorated by the challenge Arkveld presents. The essence of Monster Hunter has always been about overcoming mighty beasts, and Arkveld's fearsome and iconic nature reaffirms this core experience. The "Chained" moniker and its flagship status have sparked speculation among players about the potential existence of an even more terrifying "Unchained" version in the future.

The Monster Hunter Wilds Open Beta Test 2 is scheduled to run from February 6 through 9, and again from February 13 through 16. Players can test their mettle against both Arkveld and the returning monster, Gypceros, while also exploring new features such as a Training Area and Private Lobbies.

Monster Hunter Wilds is set to launch on February 28, 2025, for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. For those eager to delve deeper into Capcom's latest hunting adventure, IGN First offers extensive coverage, including a final preview of Monster Hunter Wilds. Additionally, a comprehensive guide to the Monster Hunter Wilds Beta is available, covering multiplayer play, weapon types, and the array of monsters you might encounter.