In Monster Hunter Wilds, unlocking High Rank isn’t just about completing hunts—it requires following a structured path, which includes defeating a major foe and completing an essential capture quest. While Low Rank serves as a warm-up, the real challenge begins once HR is unlocked, introducing tougher monsters, greater rewards, and new mechanics that will test hunters’ skills. This guide will walk you through everything you need to do, ensuring a smooth transition to High Rank so you can take on greater challenges with confidence.
How to Unlock High Rank
In Monster Hunter Wilds, High Rank unlocks after completing Chapter 4-1: New Ecosystems. Once this chapter section is cleared, you’ll gain access to High Rank content, including new environments, monsters, and equipment. Here’s how you you can unlock it:
- To Unlock High Rank content, you must first defeat Zoh Shia, the final Low Rank boss in the game. After completing this mission, a cutscene will play, followed by the credits. From this point forward, you can take on High Rank hunts to craft more powerful weapons and sturdier armour.
- Your first High Rank quest will involve capturing a High Rank Yian Kut-Ku after speaking with a Wudwud NPC named Sassafrill.
- Be sure to prepare well by stocking up on healing items and steaks for HP and Stamina recovery, as well as Pitfall Traps, Shock Traps, and Tranq Bombs to successfully capture the monster and complete the mission. After completing the quest, you’ll unlock access to more High Rank hunts.
Remember: You can distinguish between Low Rank and High Rank monsters in the quest book by the colour of the stars—blue stars indicate Low Rank, while orange stars represent High Rank. The more stars, the tougher the battle. Likewise, any material marked with a plus icon (+) signifies that it drops from a High Rank monster.
Benefits of High Rank
Once High Rank is unlocked, hunters can farm superior materials and earn better rewards from High Rank quests, allowing them to craft stronger armour and weapons.
As you progress and unlock more High Rank quests, High Rank gear will also become available, featuring slots and a wider selection of equipment to choose from.
Note: Unlocking High Rank doesn’t mean you’re ready for the battles ahead. Keep hunting Low Rank monsters until you’ve reached the end of a weapon’s upgrade path for those materials and have fully upgraded your armour using Armour Spheres.
