theHunter: Call of the Wild™

Developer: Expansive Worlds
Release: Feb 16th 2017
Platforms:
Adventure
Simulation
Sports
Immersive
Realistic
Relaxing
Bugs
Grindy
theHunter: Call of the Wild™ Poster

" Immersive hunting adventure simulation with stunning realism but persistent bugs and grind "

theHunter: Call of the Wild™ Review

theHunter: Call of the Wild is widely praised as a realistic and immersive hunting simulator that excels in delivering a serene and authentic outdoor experience. Players appreciate the stunning graphics and detailed open-world environments, which create a captivating atmosphere filled with diverse wildlife and natural sounds. The game rewards patience and careful tracking, providing a challenging yet satisfying gameplay loop.

However, the game is not without flaws. Many players point out the presence of persistent bugs, especially in mission triggers, which have remained unfixed for years. The grind to unlock better gear and rare animals can be tedious, and some feel the limited weapon variety and DLC-heavy content model detracts from the overall experience. Despite these issues, the game maintains a loyal fanbase who enjoy its depth, realism, and relaxing pace.

Highlights

Players consistently praise the beautiful and lifelike graphics, with detailed landscapes and immersive sound design that enhance the hunting experience.

The gameplay mechanics, including realistic animal behavior and tracking systems, are lauded for their depth and authenticity. The variety of maps, animals, and multiplayer options also add to the game's appeal.

Many enjoy the game's relaxing pace and the challenge of stalking game, highlighting the rewarding feeling of successful hunts and exploration.

Criticisms

Common criticisms include long-standing bugs affecting missions and animal behavior, with some missions impossible to complete due to glitches.

The grind-heavy progression and rarity of coveted 'Great One' animals frustrate many, making the experience feel repetitive.

Players also note the limited weapon and equipment variety, with much content locked behind expensive DLCs. Some find the inventory and UI cumbersome, and the lack of certain gameplay features like more diverse hunting gear or active weapon inspection disappointing.

Pros

  • Stunning, lifelike graphics create a deeply immersive hunting environment.
  • Realistic animal AI and tracking systems enhance gameplay authenticity.
  • Large, diverse maps offer varied hunting experiences and exploration.
  • Relaxing atmosphere with excellent natural sound design.
  • Multiplayer co-op adds fun social dimension to hunting.
  • Wide variety of animals with unique behaviors to hunt.
  • Detailed weapon models and authentic hunting equipment.

Cons

  • Persistent bugs and mission glitches remain unresolved for years.
  • Progression can be grind-heavy and slow, especially for rare animals.
  • Limited weapon and equipment variety, many locked behind DLC.
  • Inventory and UI management can be frustrating and unoptimized.
  • Some maps have uncomfortable terrain affecting travel and hunting.
  • Animal behavior occasionally unpredictable or unrealistic.
  • DLC pricing considered high by many players.

Rating Criteria

Story
Difficulty
Graphics
Duration
Stability
Worth the Price
Capsule image

Discover an atmospheric hunting game like no other in this realistic, stunning open world – regularly updated in collaboration with the community. Immerse yourself in the single player campaign, or share the ultimate hunting experience with friends.

Release Date Feb 16th 2017
Publisher Avalanche Studios
Developer Expansive Worlds
Platforms

User Reviews

Very Positive (54,893)
91% Positive 9% Negative