Wild Hearts S

In many ways, Wild Hearts S is currently filling an important gap on the Switch 2, as it is the go-to monster hunting multiplayer game on the system. The decision to up the player count for this version helps cement that role. Especially since it does act as a definitive edition with the Karakuri Edition extras and post-launch updates included. However, frame rate issues still exist here, only they feel more evident than on the PS5 and are especially notable when in a group of four, it doesn’t look as good as it does on other consoles, and some effects from attacks or weather conditions aren’t look great. I do think Wild Hearts S is worth playing and is a solid addition to the Switch 2 library, but recommend trying the demo first. Especially if you primarily play the system in handheld mode.

If you're looking for another type of game where you hunt intimidating monsters, tracking them along a map while you master the mechanics, this might be the game for you. Wild Hearts S is exactly what the original release aspired to be. Mixing and matching mechanics that you would never expect to be combined, wonderful landscapes and a fun gameplay loop. You're rewarded for being creative with your contraption placement. The performance is great in both of the Nintendo Switch 2 methods you choose to play, with the game still being beautiful despite the lighting and asset flaws. Wild Hearts S is the definitive version of the game, with consistent performance and the full package of content. It's most certainly worth playing if you're seeking a challenge alone or with friends.

Since Wild Hearts S has a demo, I recommend downloading it not only to see if you’re ok with the performance, but also because save data carries over. There is no downside to playing it. If you finished that and are wondering how the full game is, I still think Wild Hearts itself is excellent. Wild Hearts S brings all of what I loved from the original together in a lower-priced package for a new platform with improved online play, but it is held back by performance and visual issues that bothered me more when playing in handheld mode. I just wish it had an optional frame rate cap for a more consistent experience for those who want that. Hopefully, it gets some post-launch optimization updates, and that this isn’t the last we see of the IP.

Wild Hearts S is a satisfying, if unspectacular, addition to the Switch 2’s early library. The monster hunting and equipment building is just as rewarding and addictive as you would hope, and there’s tons of replayability here whether you’re playing solo or with friends. That being said, the technical performance is just okay, while the lack of any significant content additions to this re-release feels like a missed opportunity, especially if you previously played this on other platforms. I’d still give Wild Hearts a recommendation, as its blemishes don’t ultimately take too much away from its many strengths, but perhaps this is one to wait for a sale.

Wild Hearts S is not the best place to play Wild Hearts. The less powerful hardware struggles at points to do the large, fantastical setting justice, and it’s disappointing to find the performance is inconsistent in a port of an older title. However, this is an old-school hunting title, whose core mechanics hold up extremely well in a post-Wilds world.

Wild Hearts S gives Switch 2 owners the chance to play Dynasty Warriors developer Omega Force’s monster-hunting game. It’s far from a perfect port, with a noticeable visual downgrade and choppy performance. But it’s still perfectly playable, and the game’s fantastic Karakuri system and interesting take on weapons and armor sets remain as refreshing today as they did in the original release.

An excellent game, but a rough port, Wild Hearts S is held back by poor performance and sloppy visuals. Play it for the gameplay experience but not the aesthetics.

Wild Hearts S delivers solid gameplay with creative combat and customization, but technical issues on the Nintendo Switch 2 (including low-res textures, frame drops, and popping) significantly hinder the overall experience. The docked mode performs better but still falls short of expectations, making this version a mixed bag for fans of the series.

Overall, I do like Wild Hearts S as a faster and flashier alternative to the games that inspired it. It may not be as newcomer-friendly as Monster Hunter Wilds seems to be, but it’s still a fun time, especially if you’re coming off of that game and looking for something slightly different. It’s a shame that this new Switch 2 version doesn’t offer quite enough to justify the purchase, but if you’re looking for a fun, yet flawed, Monster Hunter clone to play on the go, there’s enough here to scratch that itch.