The hunt continues in spectacular fashion as Monster Hunter Wilds celebrates its first year in the Forbidden Lands. In the latest 1st Anniversary Message video, series producer Ryozo Tsujimoto revealed that Ver.1.041, the final major update for Monster Hunter Wilds, launches on February 18, 2026, bringing a brutal new endgame challenge, anniversary rewards, fresh Event Quests, and a first tease of a massive expansion coming later this year.
For Hunters who have been sharpening their blades since launch, the Monster Hunter Wilds 1st Anniversary update marks both a grand celebration and the beginning of the next chapter.
Ver.1.041: The Final Monster Hunter Wilds Update Before Expansion
The upcoming Monster Hunter Wilds Ver.1.041 update will roll out across all platforms on February 18, delivering gameplay refinements and quality-of-life improvements alongside its headline content.
Most notably, Tsujimoto confirmed that a massive Monster Hunter Wilds expansion is currently in development, with more details scheduled to be revealed this Summer 2026. While specifics remain under wraps, the announcement signals that the Forbidden Lands saga is far from over.
For now, Hunters can prepare for one last massive test of skill in the base game.
Arch-Tempered Arkveld Arrives: A 10★ Endgame Nightmare
If you’ve been searching for a true challenge, Arch-tempered Arkveld is ready to answer.
Storming into the Forbidden Lands as a 10★ quest for HR100+ Hunters, Arch-tempered Arkveld raises the stakes with punishing mechanics and enhanced aggression. Completing the AT Arkveld quest unlocks:
- Materials for a powerful Gamma armor set
- Access to 10★ Apex predator quests
- A special hunt-a-thon Optional Quest featuring Arkveld and multiple Apex predators
- Timeworn Charms, appraisable into rare talismans
- Battle-tempered Emblems used to reinforce Gogma Artian weapons
This endgame content is designed for veteran Hunters looking to push their builds and teamwork to the limit. If you thought Apex hunts were intense before, the Monster Hunter Wilds 1st Anniversary update turns the dial to maximum.
One-Year Anniversary Event: February 18 – March 19, 2026
Capcom is celebrating one full year of Monster Hunter Wilds with a month-long anniversary event running from February 18 to March 19, 2026.
Anniversary Rewards and Bonuses
During the event, players can enjoy:
- Special log-in bonuses
- The Special Supplies: Hunter Appreciation Pack
- Weekly rotating Festival of Accord seasonal events
- A free Character Edit Voucher
- A free Palico Edit Voucher
It’s the perfect opportunity for returning players to jump back in and for active Hunters to stock up on valuable resources.
Weekly Event Quests and New Armor Sets
The anniversary celebration also introduces a lineup of new Event Quests, released weekly, that reward exclusive cosmetics and gear.
Highlights include:
- Special pendants
- A quest targeting the least hunted monster in the Forbidden Lands
- A dazzling Gala Suit α armor set for Hunters
- Felyne Star α Palico equipment
Fashion hunting remains a cornerstone of the Monster Hunter experience, and the Gala Suit α set is shaping up to be one of the most eye-catching additions yet.
Design Contest Winners Now Playable
Fan creativity takes center stage in the Monster Hunter Wilds 1st Anniversary update.
Hunters can unlock the winning entries from the Original Weapon and Pendant Design Contest by completing the Event Quest, “Every Hunter’s Dream.” Rewards include:
- Shatterseal Great Sword (designed by Nolan Lu)
- Meatmergency! Pendant (designed by ikei)
Additionally, a new Side Mission with Support Hunter Nadia allows players to unlock a set of her armor for their own use, expanding customization options even further.
Monster Hunter Stories 3 Collaboration Begins February 18
The celebration doesn’t stop there. To mark the upcoming March 13, 2026 launch of Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection, a special collaboration quest goes live on February 18.
Hunters can team up with Rudy, the Royal Palico, in an optional transport quest that involves delivering precious eggs to Pop-up Camps. Completing the quest rewards players with:
- Special Palico equipment designed by Rudy
- Monstie-themed pendants
It’s a charming crossover that blends the mainline hunt with Stories’ beloved companion mechanics.
What’s Next for Monster Hunter Wilds?
While Ver.1.041 is positioned as the final major update for the base game, the biggest news may be what lies ahead. With a massive expansion confirmed for Summer 2026, Capcom is clearly preparing to evolve Monster Hunter Wilds even further.
Whether that means new regions, additional monsters, expanded Master Rank content, or entirely new mechanics remains to be seen. One thing is certain: the Forbidden Lands still hold many secrets.
A Milestone Moment for Monster Hunter Wilds
The Monster Hunter Wilds 1st Anniversary update is more than just a patch—it’s a celebration of a thriving hunting community and a promise of even greater challenges to come.
From Arch-tempered Arkveld’s brutal 10★ encounter to anniversary rewards, limited-time Event Quests, and a major expansion tease, February 18 marks a pivotal moment in the game’s lifecycle.
Sharpen your weapons. Reinforce your gear. The next hunt begins soon.
