Rangers, Monsties, and Intel Experts
This reveal gives us more clues about the factions and gameplay systems we'll encounter. Gaul's title of "Vice-captain" suggests the Rangers are a formal group with a clear hierarchy, likely tasked with exploring the game's dynamic world. His serious demeanor in the art points to a seasoned veteran who will probably play a key role in the story.
The biggest detail, however, is that Gaul's companion, Legia, is called a "Monstie." This term is straight out of the Monster Hunter Stories series, where it refers to tamed monsters that players ride and fight alongside. Legia's reveal is the strongest evidence yet that Monster Hunter Wilds might be blending mainline hunting with the companion mechanics of its spin-off RPGs.
Rounding out the trio is Murray, an "elite intelligence corps" Palico. This isn't your average Felyne companion. The description implies a specialized role, possibly providing tactical information during hunts, marking monster weaknesses, or uncovering environmental secrets. It looks like our Palico partners are getting a significant upgrade in their utility.
Does this mean we can tame monsters in Wilds?
While an official post included a confusing '#MHStories3' hashtag, the visual style and context point directly to Wilds. The use of the word "Monstie" feels deliberate and is a massive hint. The idea of forming bonds with monsters as permanent companions, rather than just temporary mounts, would be a huge evolution for the core series. Legia's winged design also sparks theories about expanded aerial traversal and combat. We may not just be hunting monsters anymore; we might be fighting alongside them.
With each character reveal, Capcom is painting a picture of a more complex and interconnected world. Introducing beloved concepts from Stories could fundamentally change how we prepare for and engage with our hunts.