Is Monster Hunter World On Game Pass?

Is Monster Hunter World on Game Pass? Exploring Availability and More

The question of whether Monster Hunter World graces the Game Pass library is a common one for many gamers, and rightly so! This action role-playing game is a big title that has captured the hearts of many. Let’s dig deep into its availability on Microsoft’s subscription service, what that means for you as a player, and how you can jump into this amazing hunting experience.

Monster Hunter World’s Journey to Xbox

Before diving into Game Pass specifics, let’s briefly talk about Monster Hunter World and its history with Xbox. The game originally came out for consoles and PC, including Xbox One, and it is optimized for Xbox Series X/S. Its popularity is due to its engaging gameplay, incredible monsters to fight, and the satisfying loop of crafting gear from the beasts you conquer. For Xbox owners, this meant a whole new world to explore, literally.

Initial Release and Xbox Debut

When Monster Hunter World first hit Xbox, it was available as a standalone purchase. Players were required to buy the game to access the adventures. This was true for both the base game and the Iceborne expansion. The game’s arrival on Xbox was celebrated, giving a huge community of console gamers a chance to join the hunt.

Game Pass: What it Is and How it Works

Now, let’s talk about Game Pass. Xbox Game Pass is a subscription service from Microsoft. Think of it like a library of video games. By paying a monthly fee, you get access to a catalog of games. Some are available on consoles, some on PC, and some on both, depending on your subscription tier. This service has become very popular, offering players the chance to play lots of different games for a single monthly cost.

• Game Pass for Console: This option gives access to games on your Xbox console.
• Game Pass for PC: This option lets you play games on your PC.
• Game Pass Ultimate: The best of both worlds, giving access to games on both console and PC, as well as Cloud gaming and Xbox Live Gold features.

The Current Status: Monster Hunter World and Game Pass

Now, the big question: Is Monster Hunter World on Game Pass now? Here’s the straightforward answer as of my last update. Yes, Monster Hunter World has been available on Xbox Game Pass. Specifically, it was added to Game Pass for Xbox consoles. This means that if you have a Game Pass subscription, you could download and play the game without buying it separately.

Important Notes About Game Pass Availability

While it is great news that the game is on Game Pass, keep these things in mind:

• Game Pass is not a permanent purchase: The games on Game Pass are on rotation. This means they may leave the service at some point. Usually, Microsoft announces when games are leaving ahead of time, but it is something to keep in mind.
• The Base Game Is Included: When Monster Hunter World was part of Game Pass, it typically included only the base game. The expansion, Iceborne, was usually a separate purchase if you wanted to play through that extra content.

Why Monster Hunter World Is Great on Game Pass

Having Monster Hunter World on Game Pass is a fantastic opportunity, even if you have never heard of the game before! Here’s why:

• Cost-Effective: Instead of paying the full price for the game, Game Pass users can jump right in without any extra cost, beyond the price of their subscription. It’s a cost effective way to try this kind of game.
• Easy Access: Simply download the game from the Game Pass library and start hunting. This means you don’t have to wait for it to arrive in the mail or make another trip to the store.
• Try Before You Buy: If you are unsure about this genre of game, Game Pass allows you to try it out. If you love the game, you could consider purchasing it if it ever leaves Game Pass.
• Engaging Gameplay: Monster Hunter World offers hundreds of hours of gameplay. There are many monsters to hunt, weapons to craft, and strategies to master. Game Pass is a perfect way to test the water on whether this game will suit you.

What to Expect from Monster Hunter World

If you’re diving into Monster Hunter World for the first time thanks to Game Pass, it’s good to know what you’re in for. This isn’t just your typical hack-and-slash game. It is a deep experience with a lot to offer, so you should plan accordingly.

Core Gameplay Loop

The core of the game revolves around this simple but engaging loop:

1. Take on Quests: You receive quests to hunt specific monsters.
2. Track and Hunt: Follow tracks, find the monster, and engage in combat.
3. Gather Resources: Carve materials from the monster you defeat, or gather from the environment.
4. Craft Gear: Use the gathered resources to craft new weapons and armor, making you even stronger.
5. Repeat: Head back out, and take on bigger monsters.

Key Features

• Diverse Monsters: The game has a variety of monsters, each with unique attack patterns and weaknesses.
• Weapon Variety: From Great Swords to Hunting Horns, there are many weapons to choose from. Each weapon offers a different play style.
• Crafting System: A big part of the game is collecting materials and crafting powerful gear.
• Multiplayer: You can hunt alongside friends or other players online. This makes things even more fun.

Monster Hunter World Iceborne: The Expansion

Monster Hunter World has an awesome expansion called Iceborne. It adds new monsters, a new story, and a new location to the game. Iceborne expands on everything that made the original game so great. When Monster Hunter World is available on Game Pass, keep in mind that the Iceborne expansion is usually not included. You would need to purchase that separately. However, it is a worthwhile addition if you enjoy the base game.

Content in Iceborne

• New Storyline: Continue the story from the main game.
• New Area: Explore a frigid new land.
• New Monsters: Face off against even more challenging foes.
• Master Rank: Progress to Master Rank, adding even more difficulty.

Checking for Availability on Game Pass

Since games can move in and out of the Game Pass library, how can you know if Monster Hunter World is available at any given time? Here are a few tips:

• Xbox Game Pass App: Check the Xbox Game Pass app on your console or mobile device. Search for the game there.
• Game Pass Website: Visit the official Game Pass website and look through the library.
• Xbox Social Media: Follow Xbox on social media platforms, like Twitter, for updates about new and leaving games.
• Gaming News Sites: Keep an eye on gaming news websites, as they often report on Game Pass additions and removals.

Alternative Ways to Play Monster Hunter World

Even if Monster Hunter World is not currently on Game Pass, there are still ways to play this game. Here are a few ways:

• Purchase the game digitally: You can buy the game from the Microsoft Store for your Xbox.
• Purchase the physical version: Look for a disc copy of the game at online stores or local retailers.
• PC via Steam: If you have a PC, you can also get Monster Hunter World on Steam.

How to Get Started With Monster Hunter World

Ready to begin your journey? Here is how to get started:

• Download the game: If it is on Game Pass, download it from the Game Pass library. Or, buy it and download it from the Xbox store.
• Create a Hunter: Make your hunter, and give them a name and look.
• Complete the Tutorial: The game starts with a tutorial to learn the basics. Make sure you follow it closely.
• Start Quests: Take your time learning the different systems. Don’t worry if the beginning is a bit slower. It gets much faster as you get into the game.
• Practice: Take some time to try each weapon, and see which one feels right to you.

Tips for New Players

Here are some quick tips to make your early hunts a bit smoother:

• Use the Handler: She gives you important information and advice.
• Eat Before Quests: Always eat a meal at the canteen for a stat boost.
• Gather Everything: Get resources from everything you can.
• Experiment with Weapons: Try all the weapons to see which suits your style.
• Play Multiplayer: Don’t be afraid to ask for help, or hunt with others.

The Community

Monster Hunter World has a very friendly and active community. If you ever need help, there are plenty of online resources and communities you can use.

• Subreddits: The /r/MonsterHunterWorld subreddit is a good place for tips, tricks, and questions.
• Forums: Many gaming forums have areas dedicated to Monster Hunter.
• Discord: There are many discord servers that are helpful for finding people to play with.

Monster Hunter World is a great game, and if you are an Xbox Game Pass member, it has been available for you at times. Even if it is not currently in the library, there are many reasons to check it out at some point. The world, the monsters, and the great combat system make it a very fun game for people of all skill levels.