Monster Hunter Wilds: Ascendance Trailer Reveals New Monsters and Gear

Capcom has released a new trailer for Monster Hunter Wilds: Ascendance, a major expansion set to launch in 2027 on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. The footage spotlights new monsters, a fresh region high above the clouds, and gameplay additions tied to an all-new piece of hunter equipment.

The trailer’s story setup follows the main events of Monster Hunter Wilds. After the expedition team of the Forbidden Lands is drawn into a sudden, catastrophic incident, they face a towering Ancient Dragon: Lao-Shan Lung. The destruction caused by its unexpected arrival forces the team to construct a new defensive stronghold called Madoï, preparing for the Lao-Shan Lung’s next return.

As work on the fortress begins, the mist that has been shrouding Wyveria starts to clear. With the skies opening up, the team can now see the Celestial Islands—an entirely new region floating far above the clouds. The area includes old ruins and features endemic species that have not been discovered before.

The trailer also emphasizes that the expedition team has changed in the years since a decisive confrontation with Arkveld. One of the most notable updates is the arrival of Nata, a young Guardian who now supports the expedition. Nata is accompanied by Gargare, a Wudwud closely attached to him. Together, this unusual duo will confront strange anomalies alongside the expedition team, including unknown Guardian Monsters and Ancient Dragons pushing into the Forbidden Lands.

On the monster front, the first newly revealed Great Monster is Araketa, a dangerous aerial predator that hunts in packs. Araketa can fly at very high speeds by using the powerful air currents generated by its wings. To coordinate its group, the pack leaders communicate with distinct sounds that help direct the pack’s movements.

Capcom also unveiled Gundoraja, a new Ancient Dragon described as a massive serpentine creature able to bend storms to its will. Alongside these threats, the expansion’s trailer previews new combat options built around a hunter tool called Ignificator.

When activated, the Ignificator temporarily lets hunters unleash new attacks, new combo routes, and mobility-enhancing movements, opening up more ways to tackle increasingly demanding challenges. Capcom says additional capabilities for each weapon type—and further gameplay mechanics—will be revealed later.

Monster Hunter Wilds: Ascendance is due out in 2027 for PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC.

Marcus Chen is a gaming journalist and industry reporter with more than 10 years of experience. He covers releases, announcements, and trends across PC, PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo, and keeps a close eye on the indie scene and esports. Previously an editor at several gaming publications, he now writes news, reviews, and breakdowns of major industry moments—from big showcases to updates on popular titles. His work is aimed at players who want a clear, fast read on what happened and why it matters.