Monster Hunter Ascendance gets a new gameplay trailer, showing new elder dragons, a floating island region, and a major glow up for a certain character

Capcom revealed substantial details about Monster Hunter Wilds: Ascendance, the upcoming expansion for Monster Hunter Wilds, during Sony’s PlayStation State of Play event in September 2026. The new gameplay trailer provided a comprehensive look at the expansion’s story, environments, monsters, and gameplay mechanics.

The expansion’s narrative takes place several years after the base game’s events, featuring a significant time skip that affects character appearances and world conditions. The story is catalyzed by the arrival of the elder dragon Lao-Shan Lung, which causes unprecedented devastation. This catastrophic destruction clears away mysterious mists that previously shrouded surrounding areas, opening new territories for exploration—most notably a floating island region now accessible to hunters.

The trailer unveiled new elder dragons and other fearsome monsters that players will confront during their hunts. The expansion also features a redesigned version of Nata, a major character from the base game who has aged and matured since the original story’s conclusion. Nata will accompany players on expeditions into these new territories.

Capcom also highlighted gameplay additions such as the Boost Bracer mechanic, which promises to add new strategic depth to combat and exploration. The expansion promises to deliver substantial narrative content alongside the new environments and creature encounters.

While Capcom confirmed the expansion’s 2027 release window during the PlayStation State of Play, a specific launch date has not yet been announced. The expansion represents a major content addition to Monster Hunter Wilds, expanding both the game’s story and hunting opportunities.

Sources