Lately, I’ve been diving deep into Monster Hunter Wilds since it launched a few weeks ago. I’ve been on a mission to elevate my hunter rank in those intense high-rank zones, all while flip-flopping over which new armor set deserves crafting next. At the moment, I’ve set my sights on the challenging Jin Dahaad, though I must admit, the Gravios armor with its armor-plated design is tempting, especially for my hammer build. While Wilds offers a wealth of activities to indulge in, there’s a little something I find myself yearning for.
What’s missing, you ask? Well, I’d love the chance to dress up a pig in cute outfits and tote him around like a treasured companion.
Enter Poogie, the Monster Hunter mascot who’s more than just a rotund, floppy-eared pig. Almost as iconic as Rathalos, Poogie has been charming players since his debut. I remember first encountering this delightful creature in the hub world of Monster Hunter World. There’s this quirky, almost ritualistic, act of petting Poogie while a cheerful tune plays. Get the timing right, and Poogie is as happy as can be! But true to Monster Hunter form, err in your timing and Poogie will scamper off until your next quest is completed.
In earlier iterations of Monster Hunter, Poogie would roam around the central hubs. Petting him before embarking on a mission became a cherished tradition, believed to subtly increase the odds of nabbing those elusive monster parts. Some players even speculate this lucky charm feature is built into the game’s code, though Capcom has never confirmed it.
But Poogie isn’t just a good-luck charm. In past games, once you earned his trust, you could deck him out in various adorable outfits. Who could resist a pig donning a bee costume? In Monster Hunter World, I’d often carry Poogie tenderly around the hub, waiting for that telltale controller vibration that signaled hidden treasures. (For those curious, TagBackTV has an interesting video on this feature.)
In Wilds, Poogie does make a return, but players don’t encounter him until chapter three, nestled in a village I seldom visit unless required for specific quests. Sure, this Poogie is cute, often balancing a frog on its back, but the depth of interaction from earlier games is absent. Gone are the striped pajamas and the fluffy ram outfit. Now, the only interactions left are petting Poogie and renaming him.
However, hope is on the horizon with the announcement of the Title 1 update for Monster Hunter Wilds arriving next week. Capcom has teased an expansive gathering hub to rival the scattered campsites across the Forbidden Lands. The 12-minute update footage hints at the excitement of the Grand Hub, complete with games and an expanded kitchen—hopefully signaling the return of the beloved Meowscular Chef.
But for me, the new hub won’t truly feel whole unless I can scoop up a pig and hold him close. So, Capcom, I plead: give the fans (or just me) what we really desire.
