Koei Tecmo’s WILD HEARTS received new details in a recent Reddit AMA, with executive producer Lewis Harvey answering several questions en route to release. He already confirmed no microtransactions and free post-launch DLC in the form of a new Kemono along with 4K/30 FPS and 1080p/60 FPS modes on Xbox Series X/S and PS5.
But what about the progression? Is there something akin to Low and High Rank, like Monster Hunter? As it turns out, there are. Mighty Kemono are encountered mid-way in the campaign and are “sort of our ‘high rank’ versions of the early Kemono. Players can switch back to the previous world state from the map if they wish to fight the early game Kemono again.”
The main story of WILD HEARTS will take about 30 hours to complete, so what can players expect in terms of endgame? Harvey revealed that a new quest will become available after the campaign regarding a “Volatile Kemono.” “These powerful Kemono will lead the player to an even more difficult tier of Kemono that we won’t spoil today. We are preparing a blog with more details about the endgame soon! The endgame systems and threats will continue to expand throughout our free content updates.”
Finally, if you’ve noticed the lack of capturing for any large Kemono, that’s because there’s no option. “You are not able to capture the large Kemono. That concept doesn’t line up with the story in the game.” However, you can capture the smaller creatures as pets and receive “special rewards via Karakuri enclosures you can build for them.”
WILD HEARTS releases on February 17th for Xbox Series X/S, PS5 and PC, with EA Play and Game Pass Ultimate subscribers receiving access to a 10-hour trial on February 13th.