Monster Hunter Wilds Introduces Popular Accessibility Feature

As players dive into the open beta for Monster Hunter Wilds, they’ve uncovered a noteworthy accessibility option: an arachnophobia setting. With Capcom's latest installment in the iconic franchise set to launch in early 2025, new details continue to emerge, including exciting new locations and monsters to hunt.

During a livestream on October 23, Capcom shared a comprehensive schedule for the open beta, which began exclusively for PlayStation Plus subscribers on October 28. This beta experience offers players a glimpse into the upcoming game, allowing them to create a character, embark on a hunt for a Doshaguma, and explore the initial story. Players have eagerly taken the opportunity to explore the game's settings, leading to the discovery of an invaluable accessibility feature.

Monster Hunter Wilds' open beta includes an Arachnophobia mode designed for those who may struggle with insects, spiders, and other "multi-legged" creatures. Labeled as Arachnophobia Assistance in the accessibility options menu, this setting allows players to modify the appearance of certain creatures while maintaining their movement and difficulty. When activated, the option transforms these creatures into a less intimidating oozy blob.

Understanding the Arachnophobia Mode

With the arachnophobia option enabled during the open beta, players will find that some of the endemic life scattered throughout the map appears as moving slime, significantly reducing their threatening appearance for those with arachnophobia. However, it's still uncertain how this setting will influence or adapt the more iconic creatures featured in the final version of the game. In addition to the mosquito-like Rompopolo, Monster Hunter Wilds has also confirmed the presence of the Lala Barina, which bears a striking resemblance to spiders.

In recent years, the inclusion of arachnophobia modes has become increasingly common in video games. This trend was notably started by Obsidian's Grounded, where players take on the role of kids shrunk down to survive in their backyard. Other titles, such as World of Warcraft: The War Within, Lethal Company, and even Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, have followed suit. Drawing inspiration from film franchises, Hogwarts Legacy also features an Arachnophobia Mode that humorously gives spiders roller skates while removing other details to lessen their fear factor.