Beta Players Mixed Feelings on Arkveld, Monster Hunter Wilds' New Flagship Monster

The highly anticipated return of the Monster Hunter Wilds beta has players buzzing, and this time around, it comes with a fierce new addition to the roster: Arkveld. This formidable creature is not just another boss; it’s the centerpiece of the game, destined to play a pivotal role in the player's journey through Wilds.

Beta participants are already testing their mettle against Arkveld in its "Chained" form, where they face a challenging 20-minute timer and a maximum of five faints before the hunt ends. This new monster is proving to be quite the adversary, leaving even seasoned hunters clutching their carts after intense encounters.

Arkveld, a massive winged beast with electrified chains extending from its arms, moves with surprising agility. Its thunderous attacks can electrify the battlefield, making every encounter feel like a high-stakes battle. One particularly intimidating move involves grabbing the hunter, roaring menacingly, and slamming them to the ground—a move that has players in the beta talking.

But Arkveld isn’t just about chaos; it’s also a visual spectacle. A player’s video capture of Arkveld interrupting someone’s meal has become a fan favorite, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the wilds. The difficulty might intimidate some, but for loyal fans of the series, it’s a thrilling challenge that aligns perfectly with the core appeal of Monster Hunter.

The "Chained" tag and Arkveld’s status as the flagship monster have sparked speculation among players. Could there be an even more daunting "Unchained" version lurking in the future? Only time will tell.

The Monster Hunter Wilds Open Beta Test 2 runs from February 6–9 and again from February 13–16. During this period, players can hunt Arkveld and the returning Gypceros, along with exploring new features like the Training Area and Private Lobbies.

Monster Hunter Wilds launches on February 28, 2025, for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. For more insights, check out IGN First’s coverage, including our Monster Hunter Wilds Final Preview.

For those eager to dive into the beta, our guide offers essential tips on multiplayer gameplay, weapon types, and the confirmed monsters you might encounter. Get ready to face Arkveld and the wilds—it’s going to be one heck of a hunt!