Capcom Details Monster Hunter Wilds: Ascendance's Boost Bracer Combat Evolution
Capcom is preparing to launch Monster Hunter Wilds: Ascendance the upcoming Master Rank expansion set to define the latest entry in the long-running RPG series. A central new feature, the Boost Bracer, aims to significantly evolve the game's combat system by introducing a "boosted" state that enhances player actions.
The Boost Bracer allows hunters to activate powerful attacks called Boost Drivers. Upon activation, players enter a temporary boosted state where specific actions become more potent. This can manifest as more flamboyant versions of signature weapon moves, such as the Dual Blades' Demon Flurry, or enhanced charging attacks for the Lance. Beyond offensive capabilities, the Boost Bracer also strengthens defensive options, enabling a Sword and Shield's simple block to withstand formidable attacks like fireballs while maintaining position.
Capcom has demonstrated that the boost effect can be triggered during certain specific actions, offering players increased flexibility in combat. This new mechanic has been compared to the Weapon Arts from Monster Hunter Generations and the Silkbind Attacks or Switch Skills found in Monster Hunter Rise suggesting a focus on expanding player options and dynamic engagement.
The development team, led by Game Director Takuro Hiraoka – a veteran who served as Lead Game Designer on both Iceborne and Generations Ultimate – is actively showcasing the Boost Bracer's impact on various weapons. Daily breakdown videos are being released, with the Great Sword being the first weapon featured. For the Great Sword, its Boost Driver involves a dashing horizontal slash that chains into an overhead slam, with further combo potential. When boosted, Great Sword users can expect a more reliable guard, and the Offset Rising Slash can transform into a double uppercut followed by a powerful leaping finisher upon a successful counter. An additional airborne finale after the True Charged Slash combo has also been observed, contributing to the game's emphasis on high mobility.
While the Boost Bracer promises exciting new combat dimensions, its implementation carries the weight of past experiences, particularly the divisive Clutch Claw from Monster Hunter World: Iceborne. The goal is to provide genuine enhancement without creating a scenario where boosted attacks become so essential that they overshadow the rest of a weapon's moveset. Players will be able to experience these changes firsthand when Monster Hunter Wilds: Ascendance launches in 2027. In the interim, Capcom continues to release daily videos detailing the Boost Bracer's effects on different weapons, with new content expected until September 15 on official channels.