Kinda Funny Gamescast: We Played Monster Hunter Wilds in Japan – Episode Summary

Release Date: December 3, 2024

Introduction

In the December 3, 2024 episode of Kinda Funny Gamescast: Video Game Podcast, hosts Blessing Adio Junior, Snowbike Mike, and Andy Cortez delve into their experiences playing Monster Hunter Wilds in Japan. The episode intertwines in-depth game analysis with entertaining anecdotes from Andy's recent trip to Osaka, offering both seasoned fans and newcomers a comprehensive look into the latest installment of the Monster Hunter series.

Act One: Exploring Monster Hunter Wilds

Anticipation and Initial Impressions

Andy Cortez shares his initial excitement and expectations for Monster Hunter Wilds, highlighting his engagement with both the PS5 and PC demos. He remarks, “I was very jazzed up about Monster Under Wilds” (06:37) and expresses enthusiasm for the game’s depth and complexity.

Gameplay Mechanics and Modes

The discussion delves into the game's performance modes. Andy notes his preference for the PC version due to superior visuals, stating, “It played phenomenally and it looked incredible. So I will be playing on PC still” (10:32). Snowbike Mike adds his appreciation for the game’s world creation and monster interactions, likening the monster behavior to “National Geographic” (11:25).

Weapons and Combat Styles

Andy explores various weapon options, sharing his experiences with the Insect Glaive, Long Sword, and Dual Blades. He describes the Insect Glaive’s unique mechanics: “If you want to unlock the full potential of it... you have to send your insect at three different parts of its body” (17:00). Snowbike Mike expresses his favorite weapon, the Insect Glaive, highlighting its complexity and fun factor (16:05).

Monsters and World Design

The hosts discuss favorite monsters encountered during the demo. Andy mentions the Doshugumo and the creatively designed Rompopolo, praising their unique appearances and behaviors: “This dude was above the water, but it looked like you belong under” (33:12). Snowbike Mike appreciates the expansive and varied biomes, emphasizing the game’s verticality and environmental diversity (25:45).

Story and Exploration

Andy provides insights into the game’s narrative, focusing on the protagonist’s journey in an uninhabited land under threat from the White Wraith: “This is going to be a story about helping this civilization and helping defend them against whatever the hell they're up against” (24:54). Blessing Adio Junior reflects on her personal connection to the game’s unique style, hoping it becomes more accessible to new players (11:25).

Multiplayer Experience

The conversation touches on multiplayer aspects, with Andy expressing reservations about potential complexities: “It always feels so obtuse and cumbersome to even get into a lobby” (22:52). Snowbike Mike voices similar concerns, questioning the necessity of shared online spaces within the game (22:52).

Character Creation and Customization

Andy praises the game’s robust character creation system, noting the inclusion of diverse facial hair options inspired by community feedback: “Thank you for giving me two facial hair options where I could do just the beard and then just the mustache” (30:10). Snowbike Mike highlights the randomized character builds feature, appreciating the opportunity to discover unique styles (28:36).

Act Two: Andy’s Adventure in Japan

Flight and Arrival in Osaka

Andy recounts his flight to Japan, humorously detailing interactions with fellow passengers, including spotting Jake Decker playing Mario Golf on the plane: “I was like, who else is here? He plays Mario Golf for some reason” (41:08). He shares his experience navigating the Kansai Airport, critiquing its layout and limited amenities: “This airport sucks. It was like starved to death” (66:41).

Capcom Studio Tour

The highlight of Andy’s trip was visiting the Capcom studio in Osaka. He provides an insider’s look into the Motion Capture (Mocap) and Foley studios, showcasing the intricate processes behind game development:

• Mocap Studio: Andy describes watching actors perform monster movements in real-time, illustrating how these performances are translated into the game: “They show you how the animation works in real time” (53:13).
• Foley Studio: He elaborates on the creation of unique sound effects, emphasizing the creativity and passion of the audio team: “They just make weird stuff” (57:37).

Andy expresses admiration for the dedication of the Capcom team in crafting immersive audio-visual experiences, stating, “It was a dream come true to just kind of watch this stuff right in front of you” (55:28).

Exploring Osaka

Andy shares his adventures exploring Osaka, from savoring local cuisine at Coco Ichibanya and Ramen War to navigating crowded malls like Super Potato:

• Culinary Experiences: He describes his love for Volcano Curry and the challenges of accommodating spicy preferences: “I went to number four. Whoa. Number four. No, no. Went to number three” (50:49).
• Shopping for Gifts: Andy humorously narrates his struggle to purchase souvenirs amidst long lines, resulting in the accidental loss of a Shadow the Hedgehog pin in a hotel bathroom: “I bought you a shadow pin dropped in the toilet at the airport” (69:50).

Cultural Impressions

The hosts discuss their cultural encounters, from experiencing Japanese bidets to witnessing the prevalence of Gacha machines, underscoring the unique aspects of Japanese consumer culture:

• Bidets: Blessing Adio Junior expresses fascination with Japanese bidets, comparing them to their American counterparts (71:25).
• Gacha Machines: Andy remarks on the overwhelming presence of Gacha machines, revealing a new facet of Japanese gaming culture: “I just want pins. I wish pin culture was a thing” (74:47).

Final Day and Reflections

On his final day, Andy visits the iconic Osaka Castle, capturing serene moments and reflecting on the blend of historical landmarks with modern attractions: “It was one of those sort of soaked. You sat there. That's cool” (72:00). He concludes his trip by highlighting the seamless integration of traditional and contemporary elements in Osaka, enhancing his overall experience.

Conclusion

The episode wraps up with the hosts reflecting on Andy's immersive journey through Monster Hunter Wilds and his enriching trip to Japan. Blessing Adio Junior appreciates the blend of game analysis with personal storytelling, while Snowbike Mike looks forward to future adventures and potential trips. The camaraderie and humor among the hosts provide a relatable and engaging narrative, concluding the episode on a high note.

Notable Quotes:

• Blessing Adio Junior (00:07): “Yo, what's up? Welcome to the Kinda Funny Gamescast...”
• Snowbike Mike (00:21): “Good. Episode's not about me today, it's about my best friend.”
• Andy Cortez (06:37): “I was very jazzed up about Monster Under Wilds.”
• Andy Cortez (17:00): “If you want to unlock the full potential of it... you have to send your insect at three different parts of its body.”
• Andy Cortez (33:12): “I saw one above water. Get me off this planet. I don't want to be here anymore.”
• Andy Cortez (53:13): “They show you how the animation works in real time.”
• Andy Cortez (57:37): “They just make weird stuff.”
• Andy Cortez (69:50): “I bought you a shadow pin dropped in the toilet at the airport.”

Timestamps:

• [00:07] - Introduction by Blessing Adio Junior
• [00:21] - Snowbike Mike's Opening Remarks
• [06:37] - Andy's Anticipation for Monster Hunter Wilds
• [17:00] - Discussion on Insect Glaive Mechanics
• [33:12] - Andy’s Reaction to New Monsters
• [53:13] - Mocap Studio Insights
• [57:37] - Foley Studio Creativity
• [69:50] - Lost Souvenir Anecdote

For those who haven't tuned into this episode, this detailed summary provides a comprehensive overview of Andy's gaming experience and his cultural exploration in Japan, enriched with engaging discussions and memorable moments from the hosts.