Monster Hunter Wilds 1.021 Update Divides Players

Patch 1.021 adds an endgame talisman system and weapon buffs, while missing performance improvements that some players expected.

Monster Hunter Wilds 1.021 Update Divides Players

Patch 1.021 brings a significant endgame shift. At HR 100 or higher, tempered versions of nine monsters will appear in 9★ quests, with the chance to earn Glowing Stones that, when appraised after a quest, yield talismans with random skills. The system is designed to give hunters a new grind while chasing tougher foes, but it leans heavily on apex monsters already familiar to dedicated players. The patch notes also indicate a broader set of quality-of-life changes and new favorites to help players organize gear, along with tweaks to map input and ammo/Coating bar visibility. The patch weighs in at around 3GB on PS5 and arrives with the promise of long hours of hunting and some long awaited weapon adjustments.

On the balance side, weapon buffs are broad and welcome, notably for the Lance and Insect Glaive, alongside a long list of gameplay tweaks. However, the lack of performance improvements is a conspicuous omission that will frustrate players who experience stuttering or slow optimization, especially on PC. The endgame focus remains squarely on apex monsters, with the talisman system designed to entice players to re-engage with other foes, but questions persist about how well this will play out in practice.

This update signals a deliberate turn toward deeper endgame mechanics, aiming to extend player engagement through randomized talismans. That can be fascinating in theory, but it risks doubling down on a grind that already tests patience. The emphasis on apex monsters for meaningful rewards risks alienating players who enjoy the broader ecosystem of hunts, not just the toughest foes. At the same time, the patch shows a willingness to iterate quickly, introducing quality-of-life features that improve daily play and making gear organization more efficient. The missing performance improvements may sharpen criticism from PC players and others who hoped for stability alongside new content. The community will watch how the talisman system evolves and whether future updates address balance and accessibility concerns.

Highlights

The patch moves the game forward while inviting players to test a new grind and balance that may take time to settle.