One of Nintendo Switch’s best games is coming to Game Pass, and you need to play it

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What makes the Monster Hunter series so enjoyable? Is it the hypnotic rhythm with which it coaxes you into hunting, harvesting, upgrading, and repeating? Is it the intense, climactic battles that make you feel like a shounen anime protagonist just about felling your quarry with a slither of your health left? Is it the ludicrous concept of taking on one of nature’s greatest miracles whilst mounted on a dog, as a small cat leaps into battle beside you?

In truth, I think Monster Hunter’s success is down to a combination of the above elements. And Monster Hunter Rise – the latest entry in the 17-year-old Monster Hunter franchise – perfects the formula with aplomb. The game is coming to Xbox Game Pass in 2023, and I couldn’t be more thrilled. Because it means even more people may fall in love with this absurd series and the pure, digital joy it can summon in the hearts of even the most jaded gamers.

Monster Hunter Rise lowers the barrier to entry compared to past games, allowing newcomers to wantonly swing their glaives and swords around their heads like infants. The game has easier kills and quicker routes to all the best armour than previous titles, and does a far better job of explaining the intricacies of the Monster Hunter gameplay loop to players, too. “Like the big sword, do you?” it asks. “Well, use this special attack, kill these monsters, and get an even bigger, better sword!” That’s it. And with an encouraging pat on the bum, you’re on the way – spiraling into that endlessly compelling Monster Hunter loop that’ll steal hundreds of hours of your life.

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