Monster Hunter Wilds Coming to Switch 2, New Ascendance Expansion Details Revealed

Following a long-standing series tradition, Monster Hunter Wilds is set to receive a substantial expansion next year. The reveal arrived during yesterday’s Summer Game Fest, sparking immediate curiosity within the community. Capcom quickly followed up the announcement with a dedicated developer update, providing a deeper look at the upcoming content and confirming that the core game is officially headed to the Switch 2.

The update featured producer Ryozo Tsujimoto in conversation with the new director, Takuro Hiraoka. Stepping in for Yuya Tokuda, Hiraoka brings a wealth of experience to the project, having cut his teeth on the series since 2010’s Monster Hunter Portable 3rd and serving as lead game designer for both Generations Ultimate and Iceborne.

Regarding the expansion’s title, Ascendance, the duo explained that it carries a dual meaning: representing a significant leap in combat mechanics while reflecting the verticality of the new environment, “The Skybound Eyrie.” This locale consists of a chain of floating ruins that players can navigate by utilizing their Seikrets to ride thermal updrafts and glide between islands. Hiraoka teased that the region will feature unique environmental mechanics, though he remained tight-lipped on the specifics.

Combat is also receiving a shake-up via the new “Boost Bracer” mechanic. Designed to heighten mobility and weapon versatility, it enables faster, more aggressive combos. Hiraoka confirmed that beyond this system, developers are implementing additional attack options to further broaden the gameplay loop.

The bestiary is expanding as well, with the introduction of a new avian species that utilizes coordinated V-formation strikes. Furthermore, the iconic elder dragon Kushala Daora is making a comeback, and keen-eyed fans have spotted a silhouette resembling the legendary Lao-Shan Lung. Hiraoka noted that the expansion’s narrative will center heavily on elder dragons, with Tsujimoto confirming a 2027 launch window.

Rounding out the presentation, the team shared a major milestone: Monster Hunter Wilds is currently in development for the Switch 2. While details regarding a release schedule or the availability of the Ascendance expansion on Nintendo’s upcoming hardware remain under wraps, Tsujimoto promised more information in the near future.

For those looking to catch up on the series, be sure to explore our reviews of Wilds, World, and Iceborne.