Monster Hunter Wilds has had me completely engrossed since it launched just a few weeks ago. I’ve been busy trying to claw my way up the hunter rankings in those challenging high-rank environments. Every day, I find myself torn between which snazzy new armor set I want to craft next. At the moment, I’m tracking down the fierce Jin Dahaad, but there’s a part of me that’s seriously considering switching my focus to crafting the robust Gravios armor, which would be a perfect match for my hammer build. There’s certainly no shortage of things to tackle in Wilds, yet I can’t shake the feeling that something’s missing.
What I’m really yearning for is the chance to dress up a pig in adorable outfits and carry it around like a cherished baby.
Yes, I’m talking about the beloved Poogie from Monster Hunter—a plump, floppy-eared pig that has become nearly as iconic as the fierce Rathalos in the series. These delightful creatures have been a staple in Monster Hunter games for ages. My first encounter with a Poogie happened in the hub world of Monster Hunter World. There’s this quirky ritual of petting the Poogie, where a sweet little tune plays as you shower it with affection. But it’s Monster Hunter, after all, so you can botch even this simple task. If your timing’s off, Poogie will get annoyed and scuttle away until you’re back from your next quest.
In earlier games, a Poogie would amble around one of the main gathering spots, and offering it some affection before heading out on a hunt was believed by many to bring luck. It was thought to slightly enhance the odds of securing those elusive monster pieces needed for crafting. Some players are convinced it’s ingrained deep in Monster Hunter’s hidden code, but it’s never been officially confirmed.
But let’s be real: Poogie wasn’t just a good luck charm! Previous games allowed players to dress Poogie in whimsical costumes once they’d earned its trust and love. I mean, who could resist a pig decked out in a bee outfit? In Monster Hunter World, I thrilled at the chance to carry Poogie around the hub, hoping for the moment my controller would buzz, signaling a hidden treasure nearby. (If you’re curious, YouTuber TagBackTV has an excellent guide on how it all worked.)
Fast forward to Monster Hunter Wilds, and yes, there is a Poogie—though players don’t encounter it until chapter 3, and it’s tucked away in a village I seldom visit unless I’m on a specific quest. While this Poogie is undeniably charming, often seen with a spherical frog perched on its back, it doesn’t offer the robust interactions that delighted players in previous games. Sadly, no stripey pajamas or adorable wooly costumes here. The only options are to give Poogie a friendly pet and, perhaps, rename it.
Looking ahead, Capcom recently announced that the Title 1 update for Monster Hunter Wilds is dropping next week. They’ve hinted at introducing a bustling new gathering hub that could serve as a central base, providing a refreshing alternative to the scattered campsites throughout the Forbidden Lands. In a preview from Capcom, a 12-minute video teased a host of entertainments and amenities at this new Grand Hub, including games and an expanded kitchen. I’m particularly excited about this development, hoping for the comeback of the ever-popular Meowscular Chef.
Nevertheless, this new hub won’t feel truly complete if I can’t scoop up a pig and cradle it close. Fingers crossed, Capcom, that you’ll give the fans (especially me) exactly what we’re wishing for.
