Monster Hunter Now: Mastering the Cooking Feature
The gaming world is buzzing with excitement over the latest features introduced in Monster Hunter Now, and one of the most talked-about additions is the cooking system. As part of the “Curse of Wandering Flames” update, players can now transform raw meat into delectable dishes that enhance their character’s abilities before heading into battle. This familiar mechanic, beloved by fans of the franchise, is making its debut in this mobile adaptation, providing fresh gameplay opportunities.
Beginning September 12, 2024, players will have the chance to gather Raw Meat, which can be cooked at their convenience. Much like other entries in the Monster Hunter franchise, players acquire Raw Meat by successfully completing hunts and carving up the monsters they defeat. For those eager to stock up quickly, the in-game shop provides two pieces of Raw Meat on a daily basis, adding a layer of convenience before embarking on new hunts.
To whip up a culinary masterpiece, players must navigate to the Cooking Menu in Monster Hunter Now’s main settings—safely away from any lurking monsters. When it’s time to cook, Raw Meat is placed on the classic skillet familiar to series veterans. Here’s the twist: you need to hold down a button to begin cooking. The key lies in timing – you must release the button just as the background music fades to perfection. If you let go too soon, you’ll end up with raw meat or a subpar Rare Steak. Hold it too long, and you will face the disappointment of burnt meat!
What’s truly innovative in Monster Hunter Now is its augmented reality feature, allowing players to see their Hunter character on the same battlefield where they would normally engage a monster while preparing their meal. Fortunately, there’s no risk of being attacked during this culinary endeavor.
The meticulously-cooked Well-Done Steak provides the greatest stat boosts, unlike the mediocrity of Burnt Meat or Rare Steak, which offer minimal benefits. For instance, consuming a Well-Done Steak enables you to start the hunt with your Special Gauge fully charged for the next five minutes. This is crucial as the advantages of other food items are quite limited, making it evident that players should strive to cook only the Well-Done variety.
During hunts, players won’t be permitted to consume any cooked meats, as their benefits must be activated prior to engaging with a monster. The game allows players to hold up to 10 pieces of meat at any given time, ensuring a more substantial food inventory than one might expect. However, players may need to manage their inventory carefully, prioritizing food over other collected items unless they opt for a specific upgrade available in Season 3.
In a bid to maintain their food supply, players can take advantage of a seasonal offering that expands their inventory. Starting September 12, 2024, an Item Box Expansion will be up for purchase in the in-game store. This limited-time item grants access to an additional 1,000 Item Box slots, significantly increasing the capacity for cooked food. Alongside the expansion, players will receive three Ultra Hunting Tickets and 10,000 Zenny, further enriching their gaming experience.
With the introduction of the Heavy Bowgun in Season 3, proper food preparation will be critical for players looking to navigate its complex ammo system more efficiently. Additionally, as returning monsters from the series reappear in Season 3, having an abundance of food ready will make the transition smoother as players adapt to new attack patterns.
In essence, every hunter should aim to start each adventure with a maximum of ten food items in their inventory. This proactive approach guarantees they are well-prepared without wasting precious time during crucial hunting events. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to utilize the cooking features and expand your inventory before the Item Box Expansion expires on September 22, 2024. Monster Hunter Now is not just about the thrill of the hunt; it’s about strategizing every aspect of your gameplay for the ultimate experience.
Monster Hunter Now offers an exciting blend of gaming that combines classic mechanics with new spins for both seasoned players and newcomers. Embrace the adventure, master the culinary arts, and elevate your hunting prowess in this immersive mobile experience.