Capcom Sets Monster Hunter Wilds Nintendo Switch 2 Release Date for December 2026
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: Sep 9, 2026 5:03pm UTC
Capcom has announced a Monster Hunter Wilds Nintendo Switch 2 release date of December 4, 2026.
The latest entry in the publisher’s monster-hunting series kicked off today’s September 2026 Nintendo Direct. Additional details about the release include confirmation that the Switch 2 version of Monster Hunter Wilds will come with local play and all previous title updates.
Capcom announced earlier this year that Monster Hunter Wilds was Switch 2 bound but declined to share a specific release date. It led some to believe we may have to wait until next year to get our hands on the game, making today's December announcement a nice surprise.
"Venture into the Forbidden Lands to track and hunt massive monsters, craft gear, and uncover the mysteries of an ever-changing world," Nintendo said. "Whether playing at home or on the go, hunters can team up locally via wireless play or join friends online with full cross-platform multiplayer support. All Title Update content is included, such as the Grand Hub, fan-favorite monsters like Mizutsune and Lagiacrus, the FINAL FANTASY XIV Online collaboration, and more. Monster Hunter Wilds launches for Nintendo Switch 2 on Dec. 4."
Nintendo has also confirmed that Monster Hunter Wilds: Ascendance will come to Switch 2 at some point in 2027. The expansion is expected to come to PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S at some point next year, too, though it's unclear if it will receive a simultaneous launch across all platforms.
A Switch 2 port for Monster Hunter Wilds is something fans have been looking forward to for a while. Capcom launched its latest installment all the way back in February 2025, meaning Nintendo fans will be fast approaching the game's second anniversary by the time it actually launches for the hybrid sequel console. It's hard to say if the wait will have been worth it, but those who have spent the last few months hoping to see it arrive sooner rather than later will surely be happy to see it out so soon.
IGN gave Monster Hunter Wilds an 8/10 review. At the time we said it "continues to smooth off the rougher corners of the series in smart ways, making for some extremely fun fights but also lacking any real challenge."
In case you forgot, this is Nintendo’s second Direct of the week. For everything announced during yesterday’s Zelda Direct, click here. For everything announced during today’s Direct, click here.
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Michael Cripe
Michael Cripe is a freelance writer with IGN. He's best known for his work at sites like The Pitch, The Escapist, and OnlySP. Be sure to give him a follow on Bluesky (@mikecripe.bsky.social) and Twitter (@MikeCripe).
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