A recent discussion within the Monster Hunter Wilds community has brought up a simple but interesting question: should you always use Focus Mode, or are there actually reasons to turn it off?
Many players have been experimenting with Focus Mode, and some are starting to wonder if it is just the default “better” way to play, or if there are hidden tradeoffs they might be missing.
What Focus Mode Actually Does
Focus Mode gives you a more precise aiming system and highlights wounded monster parts. It also enables special Focus Strikes, which help you deal extra damage to those weak points.
On paper, it sounds like a no-brainer. More precision, clearer visuals, extra hits; what is not to like?
What Players Are Saying
This has not been the first time since release, that a player mentioned they saw no real reason to ever leave Focus Mode. Most players expected it to be a situational tool, but found themselves using it constantly without any clear downside.
The topic has, once again, circled back and caused other players to chime in with their own thoughts:
- Some agreed that Focus Mode feels like an always-on upgrade, especially for melee weapons.
- Others mentioned that it mostly comes down to comfort and weapon choice. For example, weapons like Lance and Greatsword benefit more from the added control, while some players barely use it with Hunting Horn or Hammer.
- A few noted that while Focus Mode helps highlight wounds, it is not actually required to wound monsters. If you keep attacking the same spot, the wound will open on its own, even without Focus Mode enabled.
- One downside mentioned was that Focus Mode can feel distracting, especially with the reticle always up. Some players also find it slows down movement slightly, which can get in the way during fast repositioning or when trying to dodge.
Is It Ok to Play Without It?
Yes, absolutely. You can wound monsters and trigger wound-specific attacks even without Focus Mode. The highlights just make it more obvious when a wound is ready. Veteran players say they can recognize those moments without any visual cues.
It really comes down to how you like to play. Some hunters keep Focus Mode on all the time, others only toggle it for specific strikes, and a few ignore it altogether.
What about you?
Do you stick to Focus Mode all the time, or do you switch it on and off depending on the fight? Let us know how it feels in your hunts.
Either way: If it fits your playstyle, go for it. If not, you are not missing out on anything critical. Use what feels right for you.
