Its a wonderful experience from the very first monster hunter game and to the 20th anniversary. The game has been stable from the start, never experienced a crash. With the High Resolution texture pack, the world looks outstanding for those whose system can generate it's full glory. It's not a very long game, if you're looking for just the campaign but it's a great introduction to fans or returning. The world is very lively, monster have a bigger impact with each other and the environment. Give this game a try or take a step back and try MHW.

Here are some pros and cons. I've played this franchise for two decades and its a big improvement but it's cater to casual players now.

Cons:
1.The campaign will hold your hand, its a massive tutorial.
2. No real purpose to exploring the world without finishing the story
3. Monsters are mainly locked behind Campaign
4. Capturing Monster has no real reward anymore
5. Too many wounds for monster without deco/buffs = endless knockdowns/staggers
6. Multiplayer has too many steps or menus
8. All quest are just slaying, maybe 2 mandatory story quest for capture/repel
9. No point in herds, it's just an atmosphere and visual
10. G rank needs to be harder, lock out weapon swap and item restocks from the tent. What happened to the hardest mode turning into a casual big hitting number mode.

Pros:
1. The world feels alive, everything feels like its natural
2. Boss Monster don't have to fight alone anymore
3. Open world without a transitioning screen is great
4. Focus mode and new defensive abilities makes the game fill more fluid
5. Being able to have multiple camping spots
6. Monster interacting with each other and the environment
7. Actually seeing other players at base
8. A mount for fast travel/climbing/using items to avoid or engage monsters
9. Gathering items don't feel like a hassle
10. Returning Monster with great updates

Overall, I finished the campaign under 10 hours. Never had to go upgrade since the game gives you the materials until endgame. Crazy Texture loss were the only issue i had, either in the final map or when a monster used a smog attack. Focus mode has help me feel more in control, since I've been using the hammer forever. Free events and monster updates will come, always a reason to come back. Invite your friends or make new ones, a Monster Hunt is a lot more exciting with people.

This was my main game for 10 years! Took me 10 years to beat it, because my final disc was completely scratched. A well rounded turn-based game that deserved a real Re-Master. This isn't bad if its your 1st time or collecting. Once you've figure out the mechanics of the game, you'll be given a group of characters with a great story.

Plenty of bosses to challenge. Loads of magic and limit-break moves to use. Even a card game built-in for a change of pace. After you beat it once, you might find a reason to go back more than twice. Give FFVIII a real REMASTER.