Arkveld: Monster Hunter Wilds Beta Stirs Passion, Fear

The Monster Hunter Wilds beta is back, and it's brought some serious heat with it. Players are already facing off against Arkveld, the game's fearsome flagship monster, a battle that's generating equal parts excitement and apprehension.

Arkveld, the star of the Monster Hunter Wilds show, promises a significant role in the game's story. This beta test lets hunters tackle the "Chained Arkveld" in a thrilling 20-minute hunt with a five-faint limit.

This massive, winged beast is no pushover. With electric chains extending from its arms, Arkveld unleashes crackling thunder attacks with surprising speed. Even experienced hunters are finding themselves repeatedly defeated by its powerful moves. Arkveld's whip-like chains allow for dynamic attacks, making it a truly formidable opponent. One particularly memorable attack involves grabbing the hunter, roaring, and then slamming them to the ground—a moment that's left a lasting impression on beta testers.

The chaos extends beyond combat. One player on the r/MHWilds subreddit captured a hilarious video of Arkveld interrupting their in-game meal, proving the wilds are anything but a safe place for lunch.

The visually stunning fight and Arkveld's sheer danger have ignited the enthusiasm of dedicated Monster Hunter fans. Conquering challenging monsters is the core of the experience, and Arkveld's iconic design and difficulty are a testament to the game's ambition. The "Chained" designation, coupled with its flagship status, has many speculating about a potentially even more terrifying "Unchained" version in the future.

The Monster Hunter Wilds Open Beta Test 2 runs February 6-9 and February 13-16. Hunters can face off against both Arkveld and the returning Gypceros, alongside new features like a Training Area and Private Lobbies.

Monster Hunter Wilds launches February 28, 2025, on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. For more information, check out IGN First's coverage, including the Monster Hunter Wilds Final Preview. Our guide to the Monster Hunter Wilds Beta offers tips on multiplayer, weapon types, and confirmed monsters.