Monster Hunter Wilds: Ascendance Closes Out Capcom's Redemption Arc in 2027
In February 2026, Monster Hunter series producer Ryozo Tsujimoto confirmed that a "large scale expansion similar to Monster Hunter World: Iceborne and Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak" was in the works for Wilds. At tonight's SGF showcase, Capcom officially named its next expansion Ascendance, which is set to launch in 2027. This expansion aims to elevate the game to new heights—both literally and figuratively—as hunters embark on a new adventure.
Based on the trailer, Ascendance—a "massive" expansion, according to Capcom—will see players leave the familiar terrain of the Forbidden Lands and venture into the floating ruins of the Wyverian civilization. This journey promises new challenges, including the ever-present threat of aerial lizard attacks. As with previous expansions, hunters can expect new creatures, new zones, and expanded weapon movesets to tackle the heightened difficulty of Master Rank hunts.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Ascendance is the gameplay footage shown, which highlights the introduction of jet-propelled mechanisms embedded in forearm-mounted slingers. This allows hunters to enhance their weapon movesets, as demonstrated by a great sword user who executed a series of surprisingly nimble strikes. These innovations add a fresh layer of strategy and movement to the gameplay.
For long-time Monster Hunter fans, the trailer also teased a long-absent silhouette at the end. Could this be Lao-Shan Lung? The name has not been heard in years, and its reappearance has sparked excitement among the community. This inclusion could be a nostalgic nod to past expansions and a sign of Capcom's commitment to delivering content that resonates with veteran players.
Ascendance represents a crucial opportunity for Monster Hunter Wilds to reclaim its reputation. Although Capcom only significantly improved the PC release's performance issues in a January 2026 update—nearly a year after its February 2025 launch—this expansion could serve as the final piece of the redemption arc. It has the potential to either solidify the game's place in the series or risk falling back into the dysfunction that plagued its initial release.
With a track record of successful expansions like Iceborne and Sunbreak, there's reason to be optimistic about Ascendance. These previous expansions have consistently raised the bar for the series, and if Monster Hunter Wilds can deliver a similar experience, it could mark a triumphant return for the franchise.
The PC Gaming Show returns on Sunday, June 7 at 12 pm PDT. Visit the show's Steam page to wishlist your most anticipated games and get more information on how to tune in for the big reveals.
