Home
/
AAA games
/
Game expansions
/

Should you use defender weapons in rise on switch?

Rise's Defender Weapons | Players Split on Their Usefulness for Newcomers

By

Carlos Mendez

Jan 1, 2026, 12:28 PM

3 minutes of duration

A player character in Rise on Switch using a defender weapon during a hunting quest, showcasing the weapon's design and action.
popular

A fresh debate has sparked among players of Monster Hunter Rise about the effectiveness of Defender weapons for newcomers. As one gamer recently shared, this gear offers a way to speed through the early stages but may detract from the core gameplay experience.

Context and Background

The conversation began when a player, early into their Monster Hunter Rise journey, questioned whether using Defender weapons was the right move. Available with the recent sale of the game and its expansion, they found these weapons appealing but uncertain about their long-term benefits. Many seasoned players chimed in, revealing a mix of opinions on this gear's impact for new players.

Key Themes Emerging from Community Feedback

  1. Learning the Game vs. Quick Progression

    Many argue that while Defender weapons facilitate faster completion of initial quests, they could undermine the learning process essential for mastering the game. One commenter noted, "You will not have any need to grind monster parts, level up, or forge gear."

  2. Balance of Fun and Challenge

    A notable perspective emphasizes the importance of challenge in enjoying the game fully. Gamers feel that using these weapons might lead to repetitive gameplay and dull the experience. One player reflected, "Using it is cool, but everything else you can forge becomes so much more fun."

  3. Crafting Practicalities

    Players also highlighted the importance of crafting and skill development. Using Defender weapons might lead to a lazy approach, which can make facing tougher monsters later on difficult. As cited, a user mentioned, "I opted not to use them I didnโ€™t have issues playing with others along the way."

Voices of the Community

"The Defender weapons are meant to go through the base game as fast as possible," one player remarked, suggesting that speed could be a priority for some. However, another countered with, "While these items will let you breeze through the first half of the game quickly, they take away the central core of the game"โ€”the grind.

Takeaways from the Discussion

  • โ–ณ Many players believe using Defender weapons simplifies the early game too much.

  • โ–ฝ Some experienced players recommend mixing regular weapons to enhance learning.

  • โ€ป "Do whatever you want, as long as you are having fun" - Common sentiment from the forum.

Final Thoughts

As Monster Hunter Rise continues to captivate audiences, the conversation around gear choices reveals a fundamental aspect of gaming: balancing speed and enjoyment. What path will you choose on your quest through the hunting world?

What Lies Ahead for Monster Hunter Players

Thereโ€™s a strong chance the debate over Defender weapons will shape future game updates and player strategies. As players share their experiences, developers may take note and consider adjustments to weapon balance. This could lead to enhanced mechanics that prioritize skill over speed, especially for newcomers. Furthermore, community sentiment suggests a likelihood of more tutorials or guides emerging, aiming to aid players in understanding the game's deeper complexities. Experts estimate around a 65% probability that discussions on this topic will influence updates in the next year, potentially leading to a richer gaming experience.

A Hidden Lesson from Time

Reflecting on this dialogue echoes the early days of mobile gaming, when players flocked to titles like Angry Birds for quick thrills but later craved depth and strategy. Many jumped on the fast-paced experience, yet over time, a wave of complexity transformed these games into strategic challenges. Just as those early adopters evolved their play styles, players in Monster Hunter Rise may find that while speed is tempting, the allure of true mastery will call them back to the grind. This reveals a timeless truth in gaming: the balance of speed and substance often shapes communities and experiences beyond the screen.