Wild Hearts S Reviews
Look forward to nice quality-of-life changes in this Nintendo Switch 2 port of Wild Hearts.
Wild Hearts S achieves its primary goal: bringing a solid and distinctive hunting experience to the Nintendo Switch 2. It's not the best way to play Wild Hearts, but it's a competent port that understands its limitations and works within them.
Review in Spanish | Read full review
While the ‘S’ version doesn’t offer enough to bring back returning players, it still delivers a compelling monster-hunting experience for newcomers.
2 1/2 years after its original launch, Wild Hearts has found a second life on Nintendo Switch 2
Perhaps my biggest takeaway from Wild Hearts S is that I didn't once find myself lamenting Monster Hunter. Wild Hearts was perhaps a risky endeavour but it's one that's paid off with impressive results. While genre newcomers can treat the land of Azuma as a gateway to monster hunting, long-standing genre fans will find plenty here to keep them happy until the next Monster Hunter adventure arrives. Best of all, this game is a fun experience on the Nintendo Switch 2, even with some of the graphical slowdown – it's portable monster hunter killer.
If you once gave up on Wild Hearts but now own a Switch 2, Wild Hearts S might be worth a try. With significantly improved optimization, a new 4-player co-op mode, and still-solid hunting gameplay, it's a decent way for co-op fans to get through a content drought.
Review in Chinese | Read full review
Wild Hearts S is a fine port, and released at a very good window for those in need of a good progression-based game on the Nintendo Switch 2. Sadly, it won’t likely get any support if the original release is anything to go by, so don’t expect it to be the most long-term solution for multiplayer. Aside from that, and some poor texture qualities scattered throughout the game, Wild Hearts S is a hunt worth taking, especially for those who did not play it in the initial release.
Fast-paced, action-packed game now getting a second shot on Switch 2
The issues with Wild Hearts S are minor enough that I’ve been more than willing to put up with them to enjoy the greater context. This is an excellent take on the Monster Hunter formula with stunning production values, an excellent and challenging range of monsters to track down, and, ultimately, a satisfying world to inhabit. It’s just incredible to now also have it in a portable format.
Wild Hearts S' deft art direction carries it through the down-porting process onto lower spec hardware. Despite some minor complaints, the main game offers a robust 30-40 hours of content, with seamless four-player co-op adding replayability. Hunting with friends is always fun, as coordinating Karakuri setups and weapon synergies elevates the chaos to new heights and offers a lot of bang for one's buck.
Wild Hearts S on Nintendo Switch 2 is an enjoyable way to experience the game on the go, keeping its inventive combat and co-op intact. Technical issues and downgraded visuals hold it back, but newcomers or players seeking portability will still find plenty to enjoy.
Wild Hearts S on Nintendo Switch 2 is a bold attempt at porting: it's not technically perfect, quite the contrary (with inconsistent performance for a title that is two years old), but it still manages to bring an IP that we believe is underrated back into the spotlight, offering unique mechanics, customization, and cooperative gameplay for up to four players that hold up quite well. In particular, the Karakuri system, a unique mechanic that allows the player to build wooden constructs and tools in real time, supported by an excellent combat system and good equipment, will delight you. If you enjoy titles such as Monster Hunter, Toukiden, or Dauntless, but want a touch of structural innovation and less “grind” with plenty of portability, Wild Hearts S is a fresh and exciting choice in the “monster hunter” landscape. If you've already spent time playing Wild Hearts on other platforms since its release in 2023 and are wondering whether or not it's worth returning to action, there's nothing about the Switch 2 version, apart from the ability to play on the go, that's worth a new run.
Review in Italian | Read full review
"Ambitious but technically flawed" Wild Hearts S proves itself a solid portable alternative to the big-budget hunting games, thanks to its unique Karakuri system, weapon variety, and rich seasonal environments. However, graphical sacrifices and unstable performance prevent it from being the perfect version. Despite the technical flaws, the game offers a deep and satisfying hunting experience, especially for those looking for a systematic challenge and a team-based experience on the Switch 2.
Review in Arabic | Read full review
Even if it doesn’t perform perfectly, and even if it’s not all that different from the original game just because it has an “S” in its name, we’re still talking about a game that’s taken the Monster Hunter formula and added enough wrinkles here and there that it’s more than just a clone. It makes for a fine time if you want to take down some monsters, either solo or with up to three Switch 2-owning friends, and all things considered, that’s a perfectly fine thing for a game to be.
Wild Hearts S is a testament to the Nintendo Switch 2 potential, as it runs well enough in handheld mode despite releasing so early in the console life cycle, especially for a third party title. It can't be considered a threat to Monster Hunter's throne in this genre, but it certainly could be a good choice for those who prefer handheld gaming, especially if they haven't played it on other platforms.
Review in Italian | Read full review
Wild Hearts S serves as a good option for those waiting for a new Monster Hunter experience on the Switch 2. It offers similar gameplay, but manages to stand out with its own identity by mixing elements of crafting, with several ways to have fun with the hunts presented. It is worth noting, however, that issues like performance, questionable graphics, and the limited player base due to the lack of crossplay are obstacles that prevent this version from reaching its full potential.
Review in Portuguese | Read full review
Wild Hearts S is a strategic hunting game in which you beat huge samples with self -built traps and constructions. Play solo or with 4 players and develop unique weapons and Gear. Ideal for those who love action, cooperation and smart gameplay on the Switch 2.
Review in Dutch | Read full review
Wild Hearts S surprised me. It took a formula I’d grown to believe wasn’t for me and gave it enough personality and ingenuity to pull me back in. From the creative monster designs to the satisfying Karakuri building system, it delivers a hunting experience that feels purposeful, epic, and endlessly replayable. If you’re looking for your next big gaming project you can jump in and out of the give it a go. A free demo is also available on the eShop and progress transfers to the full game.
"Give a second chance for some carpentery and monster hunting."
Review in Finnish | Read full review
Wild Hearts S successfully ports the 2023 hunting game to Switch 2 with expanded 4-player co-op and all post-launch content included. The unique Karakuri building system sets it apart from Monster Hunter, letting you construct traps and platforms mid-battle. While performance issues and the lack of cross-play raise concerns about longevity, it's currently the best monster hunting option on Nintendo's new hardware.