Monster Hunter Wilds has been consuming my gaming hours ever since it launched a couple of weeks ago. These days, I’m diving into high-rank territories, working hard to climb up the hunter ranks, all while debating which new armor set deserves my attention next. My current target is the formidable Jin Dahaad, but I must admit, the alluring Gravios armor—ideal for my hammer build—has definitely caught my eye. There’s no shortage of things to do in Wilds, yet, surprisingly, something feels a bit amiss.
I find myself wishing for the chance to dress up a pig in quirky costumes and carry him around like a cherished pet. Yes, I’m talking about Poogie, the adorable, floppy-eared pig recognized as a nearly iconic figure in the Monster Hunter series, standing shoulder to shoulder with the fierce Rathalos. Poogies have been charming players throughout the franchise; I fondly recall meeting my first Poogie in the bustling hub world of Monster Hunter World. Petting Poogie was an important ritual, accompanied by a sweet little tune as the hunter showered him with affection. Timing was everything—hit the buttons just right, and Poogie adored it! Of course, things are never straightforward in Monster Hunter; mistime it, and little Poogie would scamper off until your next quest concluded.
In previous game versions, you’d find Poogie roaming around the central gathering areas. Offering him some love before a hunt was thought to bring luck, supposedly upping the odds of bagging rare monster parts. It’s a myth deeply embedded in Monster Hunter lore, although perhaps, disappointingly, there’s no confirmation coded into the game.
But Poogie offered more than potential luck boosts! Once you’d earned his trust and affection, dressing Poogie up in whimsical outfits was an added delight. I mean, who wouldn’t enjoy seeing a pig decked out in a bee costume? In Monster Hunter World, I would cradle Poogie tenderly as I wandered the hub world, waiting for my controller’s vibration cue that signaled hidden treasure nearby. For a glimpse at how it worked, check out YouTuber TagBackTV’s awesome video.
Monster Hunter Wilds does feature a Poogie, but you won’t encounter him till chapter 3. Sadly, he resides in a village that doesn’t see much foot traffic unless you’re there for specific quests. This Poogie, often seen with an adorable spherical frog perched on its back, lacks the depth of interaction we cherished in earlier titles. There are no costumes like stripey pajamas or woolly ram attires. You can only pet Poogie and change his name—hardly as engaging as before.
Looking forward, Capcom has announced a Title 1 update for Monster Hunter Wilds next week, hinting at an exciting new gathering hub to serve as an alternative to the camps scattered across Forbidden Lands. In the 12-minute preview shared by Capcom, we get a glimpse of enticing features like games and an expanded kitchen in the hunters’ Grand Hub. Personally, I’m thrilled about the prospect of the Meowscular Chef, the beloved culinary cat possibly making a return.
However, for this new hub to truly feel complete in my heart, it needs one essential feature: a lovable pig that I can scoop up and hold close. So here’s hoping Capcom gives us—and by that, I mean me—what we’re longing for!
