Monster Hunter Freedom Unite

Lore & Background

Capcom created the Encyclopedia Gigantica website for newcomers, which included tutorial videos, monster images, and forums, but it has since been shut down. A temporary Gathering Hall was held in London, Charing Cross, from July 3 to September 1, for players to play in a campaign to popularize the franchise in the West. The game's demo offered set equipment for each weapon category, three Felyne helpers, and three quests totaling about two hours of gameplay. An iOS version was released in 2014 but lost compatibility with iOS 9; Capcom initially announced no plans to update it and removed it from the App Store, but later returned with fixed compatibility.

Reader's Guide

Monster Hunter Freedom Unite holds a significant place in the history of the Monster Hunter series and the PSP platform. It received 'favorable' reviews on both platforms according to Metacritic. The Japanese release sold 670,000 copies on its release day and one million copies in its first week. As of July 8, 2009, it had sold 3.5 million copies in Japan. By 2016, the game had sold 3.7 million copies worldwide across MHP2G and MHFU, making it one of the best-selling games on the PSP. As of 2018, it had sold 3.8 million copies, placing sixth behind its successor Monster Hunter Portable 3rd (4.9 million sales, despite no Western release). The game's introduction of online play via Ad hoc Party helped expand the multiplayer experience. Its expanded content—new monsters, quests, equipment rarities, and the Felyne companion—set a template for future entries. The temporary London Gathering Hall and the Encyclopedia Gigantica website represented Capcom's efforts to grow the Western audience. The game's legacy includes its role in establishing the series' popularity outside Japan and its continued recognition as a landmark PSP title.

Did You Know?

• The game sold 670,000 copies on its release day in Japan.
• The iOS version lost compatibility with iOS 9 and was temporarily removed from the App Store before returning with fixed compatibility.
• Pre-orders in Japan received a black hairy strap meant to be that of the Nargacuga monster.