(Image credit: Capcom)
As I drift into dreams, visions of Miu Miu tops from FW99 and orchid-esque dresses from Blumarine SS13 dance before my eyes, alongside the stunning armor sets from Monster Hunter Wilds that leave my heart longing. Despite my dedication to FromSoftware games and my efforts in crafting avant-garde styles as a fervent fan of Fashion Souls, the vibrant creations in Monster Hunter Wilds put my ventures to shame.
Let me pause, gathering my composure as I feel my mascara on the brink of ruin. Perhaps I am being harsh on FromSoftware? Although I do take pride in the Victorian charm of outfits like the faded bonnet and schoolboy shorts donned by my Bloodborne protagonist. With its Elie Saab style, Fia’s Deathbed Dress in Elden Ring exudes an air of elegance. However, there is no denying the vast gulf between the fashion potential in Monster Hunter Wilds and the typically masculine attire in FromSoftware titles.
Sure, Monster Hunter Wilds offers epic beasts to defeat and profound stories to unravel, praised in our comprehensive Monster Hunter Wilds review. Yet, as a newcomer to Capcom’s action RPG series, my focus is fixed on its chic capes, crop tops, and the alluring blend of armor pieces fit for battles or nightlife adventures in the Forbidden Lands.
Introduced in 2018’s Monster Hunter World, the layered armor system allows players to morph high-rank materials into fashionable gear, seamlessly balancing dragon-slaying utility with after-hours style. Players can craft ensembles with matching colors and textures, elevating simple additions like a low-brim cowboy hat into luxurious leather or crocodile designs.
Such personalization is unmatched by FromSoftware offerings, even with the introduction of slight modifications in Elden Ring. Contrastingly, characters in Monster Hunter Wilds strut in non-gendered outfits resembling satin blooms, while Elden Ring’s adjustments seldom surpass minor cape or hood removals. Although Bloodborne offers a few frilly accessories, its style remains limited compared to Monster Hunter Wilds.
Why does this matter? Because clothing signifies freedom. Throughout history, the evolution of women’s fashion—from pants’ acceptance to swimwear liberation—has symbolized autonomy. If a game, even in its seeming triviality, aligns with masculine fashion norms, it inadvertently signals a lack of collaboration with a female audience. Miu Miu might appreciate a flashy codpiece, but restrictive customization stifles creativity and breaks immersion.
Despite the yearning for such innovation in the FromSoftware games I cherish, I admire how Monster Hunter Wilds sets a precedent for stylish and inclusive RPG fashion. Although video game apparel doesn’t hold the existential weight of essential needs, it enriches our gaming experience. I eagerly await Monster Hunter Wilds’ future expansions and hope more developers will be inspired to incorporate such dynamism into their worlds.