Players have begun journeying deep into the world of Wild Hearts, a new game by Omega Force that channels the energy of the Monster Hunter series. While sharing some similarities with the famous action role-playing IP, it also has its own flavor of combat systems, and certain mechanics have shown Wild Hearts is much more than a simple retreading of the monster-slaying formula. A key system that players are introduced to early on is the Karakuri, an ancient technology that aids in traversal and battle.
Basic and Fusion Karakuri can be built with the press of a button, as long as players have the requisite resources - known as Thread in-game. Basic Karakuri includes utility objects like crates and torches, while Fusion Karakuri types are most useful during combat. Newcomers may want tips before starting Wild Hearts given its complexity, but they might find its beasts less intimidating once becoming more comfortable using the Karakuri. From bombs to defensive walls, there are several structures that can be assembled almost effortlessly, which also makes for some comical strategies.
Wild Hearts Brings a Stylized Twist to Combat
Wild Hearts provides an array of siege-like contraptions that bring situational advantages, incentivizing players to plan or adapt. Building with Fusion Karakuri specifically requires good timing, positioning, and resource management - all factors that feed into other aspects of the gameplay loop. For instance, a misplaced Star Bomb is liable to explode on anything in its range, and this includes allies. The sheer power of players' improvised tech is fantastic, but it does have the potential to turn an otherwise epic battle into one of gaming's unintentionally funny moments.
Regardless of the associated risks, it is commendable that Omega Force gives fans so many options in their hunting expeditions. A majority of AAA games are probably hesitant to embrace this creative chaos and are likely to fall back on safer, less spectacular forms of third-person combat. Considering the fiction, Wild Hearts can be liberating with its streamlined set of traps and gadgets that defy reality. Karakuri is empowering in ways that differ from the title's competitors, and an interview with Wild Hearts developers suggests crafting was a twist further underscored by this setting's organic themes.
Action RPGs usually rely on equipment to keep the experience fresh, and although the game is not really forgoing a traditional arsenal, its combat does experiment with survival-based features. Whether it comes to Kemono or Karakuri, Wild Hearts utilizes nature to build a world of unreal proportions. Omega Force's universe is more magical than grim, so it is only appropriate that Wild Hearts' giant beasts are met by towering hammers and crossbows - tools fit to break castle walls just as much as monsters. The game's stylized presentation is welcome, combining detailed graphics with action that is most satisfying when it's animated and unrestrained in its wild ambitions.
Even though many elements from the genre carry over into Wild Hearts, the game is surprising in how it lets players approach Karakuri-infused playstyles. Defensive characters might counter an incoming Kemono by placing a Bulwark wall or even setting a Chain Trap to snare it for a short period. Omega Force has created a game where players can formulate bizarre strategies that may rival the most overpowered character builds in Monster Hunter Rise, extending gameplay outside the limitations of direct, on-foot attacks. Admittedly, it could be a delicate balance for some, but Wild Hearts delivers an entertaining mashup of makeshift weaponry and spectacle that should give players more than a few original hooks.
Wild Hearts is available now on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC.
