Niantic, the developer of the popular augmented reality game Pokémon Go, has partnered with Capcom to create an AR version of the Monster Hunter franchise. The new game, called “Monster Hunter Now,” will be available on Android and iOS devices and will feature real-world hunting action RPG gameplay.
Players will use their phones to explore their surroundings and locate monsters to battle. They will also be able to team up with other players to gather materials and craft weapons and armor. The game will be free to play with in-app purchases and will feature simplified combat, similar to Pokémon Go.
The maximum battle time for the mobile game will be 75 seconds, as the developers aim to encapsulate the fun battles of the franchise within a shorter window of time. Players can also tag monsters they encounter with a paintball and battle them at home, either on their own or with friends.
Niantic is now accepting sign-ups for the game’s closed beta testing, set to begin on April 25th. If testing is successful, the game will officially launch in September of this year.
Monster Hunter Now is expected to attract a large player base, given the popularity of both the Monster Hunter franchise and Niantic’s past successes with augmented reality games. The new game is set to offer a unique gaming experience that combines the thrill of Monster Hunter battles with the real-world exploration and social interactions of Niantic’s other games.
