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Monster Hunter Now has been released as the newest AR game by Niantic. Now, players can bring Monster Hunter to the real world, taking down classic monsters on their morning walks. Similar to Pokemon Go, Monster Hunter Now gives players the chance to combine healthy exercise with engaging gameplay. Hunting each monster down is very satisfying and captures the franchise well in a mobile format. However, there are times when players are looking for a break from the new Niantic release. Whether players are looking for a similar game, they can play while relaxing at home or more AR games to mix up their daily walks, here are five games to try out if you like Monster Hunter Now.
Pokemon Go
Anyone familiar with the company Niantic most likely knows of Pokemon Go. Niantic specializes in AR games, combining reality with gameplay to create a more immersive experience. The best release to take advantage of this formula is Pokemon Go itself. In this Pokemon spinoff, players can find and catch Pokemon by walking around in real life. While walking, players have the chance to encounter and catch Pokemon on their journeys. By using your phone’s camera and AR technology, Pokemon Go places the Pokemon right in front of you. For Monster Hunter Now players, you’ll see tons of similarities here, like the map layout, UI, and more. If you love the AR aspects of Monster Hunter Now, Pokemon Go is another great game.
Pikmin Bloom
Following Pokemon Go, we have Pikmin Bloom, another Niantic game. In Pikmin Bloom, players can plant and grow Pikmin through the power of walking. After walking a certain amount of steps, players can then send them on expeditions for fruit and clearing obstacles. In terms of gameplay, Pikmin Bloom is a much more hands-off experience than both Pokemon Go and Monster Hunter Now. Generally, players will plant their seeds, set their Pikmin, and simply put their phones away and enjoy their walk. Players who like the walking aspects of Monster Hunter Now but don’t want to be on their phones the whole time should give this game a try.
Genshin Impact
Moving away from AR games, we have Genshin Impact. Genshin Impact is a massively popular Gacha game created by HoYoverse. Overall, Genshin specifically focuses on action-RPG gameplay. Players will fight enemies using parties of four unique characters in fast-paced battles while exploring a massive open world. Compared to Monster Hunter Now, Genshin Impact has much more depth to its combat, but fighting in either release has a similar vibe. While you do lose the real-world connection, Genshin Impact’s open world makes up for it with its virtual exploration of the massive world of Teyvat. In terms of mobile gaming, Genshin Impact is the perfect game for players who love Monster Hunter Now.
Yeager: Hunter Legend
For a more traditional monster-hunting experience, players should look no further than Yeager: Hunter Legends. Although many games have attempted to copy the Monster Hunter formula, none have gotten as close as Yaeger: Hunter Legend. While Monster Hunter Now takes a different approach to combat due to its AR capabilities, Yeager features 3D ARPG combat and weapon types that are more reminiscent of the original series. Unlike Monster Hunter, Yeager has a sci-fi style, giving fans a much-needed break from traditional fantasy. For players looking for a mobile alternative to games like Monster Hunter Rise or Monster Hunter World, Yeager may be an excellent choice.
Monster Hunter Stories
Finally, keeping in the same universe of games, Monster Hunter Stories is an excellent alternative to Monster Hunter Now. While this entry isn’t free like the others, it gives plenty of value for its cost. Taking players further into the Monster Hunter universe, Monster Hunter Stories allows players to hatch and raise ferocious beasts to fight alongside. Rather than ARPG-style combat like Monster Hunter Now, this game takes a turn-based approach. Plus, Monster Hunter Stories has a great narrative and tons of content to keep players engaged for a long time. Although this may take a bit of getting used to, Monster Hunter Stories is perfect for players who love the monsters and story of the new AR release and want to learn more.
