Pokemon GO studio Niantic will be releasing a new game later this year for mobile devices that involve visiting places in real life and battling giant monsters in augmented reality. However, this time the developer will be partnering with Capcom to adapt the popular Monster Hunter franchise to Apple and Android smartphones with Monster Hunter Now.
The game will contain some of the series' staples, such as a simplified version of the Monster Hunter combat, a variety of weapons to choose from, character customization, item crafting, and classic Monster Hunter monsters like Rathalos and others. Players will even have their very own Palico companion to help out in battle.
Monster Hunter Now is scheduled to release sometime this September, but Niantic will be holding a closed beta test with a limited amount of invites starting this month. This guide will show potential players how to sign up for the beta, when it begins, and some of its restrictions.
How to Sign Up for the Monster Hunter Now Beta
Those looking to play Monster Hunter Now before its September release date has to visit the official Monster Hunter Now website in order to sign up for the closed beta. Niantic started taking sign-ups on Tuesday, April 18, and the ability to sign up will last for one week. The sign-up form contains six questions that must be answered before it can be submitted.
Players will have to provide their email (Gmail or a Google Workspace email), their date of birth, gender with multiple options, and region. There is also a question regarding the type of device needed for minimum requirements to run the game, so players either need an Android 7 (64bit) device or an iPhone 8 (iOS 14) and above.
The final question asks players whether they are a new, current, or lapsed Monster Hunter fan. The form can be submitted after selecting the checkbox to accept the terms of service.
Beta Times and Restrictions
Monster Hunter Now closed beta invites will be sent via email to testers starting on Tuesday, April 25, which is when the beta will begin. Invites will be sent throughout the testing period, so it may take a few days before some will receive access.
The closed beta of the mobile adaptation will be limited to only 10,000 players, and Niantic said that not everyone will get an invitation for this test. It will also be available in only English and Japanese languages, and all progress made during the beta will not carry over to the full game when it releases.
Monster Hunter Now will launch for Android and iOS devices in September 2023.