My Dream in Monster Hunter Wilds: Cozy Pajamas for My Pig Companion

I’ve been absolutely engrossed in Monster Hunter Wilds ever since it launched a few weeks ago. I’m currently focused on climbing the ranks in the high-rank territories and finding myself torn about which new armor set to craft. Right now, I’m on the hunt for the elusive Jin Dahaad, but I must admit, the sturdy Gravios armor has caught my eye—it’s just perfect for my hammer build. There’s a wealth of activities in Wilds, yet I can’t shake the feeling that something’s missing.

What I really wish for is the ability to dress up a pig and carry it around like a baby.

I’m referring to none other than Monster Hunter’s beloved Poogie, the chubby, floppy-eared pig that’s almost as iconic in the series as the fierce Rathalos. Poogies have made their charming presence known throughout Monster Hunter games. My first encounter with one was in the hub world of Monster Hunter World. There’s something special about the ritual of petting a Poogie; if you time it right, it responds with glee to your affections. But, true to Monster Hunter’s style, even this simple task carries a challenge—pet the Poogie at the wrong moment, and it will run off until you complete another quest.

In past Monster Hunter games, Poogie would be a familiar face in the main gathering spots. Many players believed giving Poogie a pet before venturing out boosted their luck, supposedly increasing their chances of collecting those hard-to-get monster parts. Although there’s never been any concrete proof of this little superstition in the game’s code, it added to the fun.

Yet, Poogie’s role wasn’t just about luck. Previously, winning Poogie’s trust let you dress him in different costumes—who could resist a pig sporting a bee outfit? In Monster Hunter World, I used to carry him around the hub, waiting for that telltale controller vibration that signaled potential treasure nearby—a neat little Easter egg you can check out in TagBackTV’s video on YouTube.

In Monster Hunter Wilds, there is indeed a Poogie, but players only cross paths with him in chapter 3, tucked away in a village that’s off the beaten path unless you’re there for specific quests. Despite this distance, he’s adorable as ever with a little frog perched on his back. Still, the depth of interaction isn’t on the same level as previous installments. Gone are the days of outfit changes like those charming stripey pajamas or the wooly ram costume. This time, my options are limited to just petting Poogie and renaming him.

With Capcom teasing the upcoming Title 1 update for Monster Hunter Wilds next week, they’ve hinted at the introduction of a sprawling gathering hub as an alternative base to the scattered campsites across the Forbidden Lands. The glimpse from their 12-minute update video promises more excitement, featuring games and an expansive kitchen, potentially signaling the return of the culinary genius, the Meowscular Chef—a feature I’m eagerly anticipating.

But even with all these updates, it won’t quite feel complete unless there’s a Poogie I can hold close once again. So, Capcom, I’m counting on you to make this happen! Give us what the community—well, mostly me—desires.