One of the biggest new gameplay mechanics in Monster Hunter Rise is the wirebug. In a recent interview, Monster Hunter Rise producer Ryozo Tsujimoto reveals more about how the wirebug improves the upcoming Nintendo Switch game compared to previous entries.

According to Tsujimoto, the theme of Monster Hunter Rise is “a Monster Hunter that you can play anytime, anywhere, with anyone you want,” so that translates to improved traversal of the game’s levels via the use of the wirebug or riding an animal companion called the Canyne.

He said:

One of the main characteristics is the fun of traversal, be it by using the Wirebug to climb and fly all over the map, or by riding a Canyne to run across the fields at high speed.

He also revealed that you can still play the game without using the wirebug if you want to:

“It’s a completely new feature, so it’ll take some time to get used to, but you don’t need to whisk around the map right from the start, and we made sure the game is fun enough without using the Wirebug.”

The wirebug is so versatile that it can also be used in combat.

Tsujimoto added:

“If you manage to incorporate your Wirebug into your combos, your repertoire of moves will expand significantly, but what that means is that you’ll just have even more choice on top of the already rich amount of strategy you normally have.

The Wirefall can be a lifesaver when used effectively, so it comes highly recommended.”

For more past details and information on Monster Hunter Rise, head on over here.

Monster Hunter Rise is slated to launch exclusively for the Nintendo Switch on 26 March 2021. In the meantime, check out the gameplay trailer below: