Monster Hunter Wilds Preload Guide: Dates & Steps

This guide explains how to preload Monster Hunter Wilds on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC (Steam). Preloading downloads the game files before the official release, so you can start playing the moment it unlocks. You will need a stable internet connection, enough free storage space, and a valid pre-order or Game Pass subscription (if applicable).

What You’ll Need

• A pre-order of Monster Hunter Wilds on your chosen platform, or an active Xbox Game Pass subscription (if the game is included at launch).
• Enough free storage space: approximately 50 GB on PS5 and Xbox Series X|S, and around 50 GB on PC (may vary with updates).
• A stable internet connection (wired is recommended for large downloads).
• For PC: the Steam client installed and logged in.
• For consoles: make sure your console is set to your home console to allow background downloads.

Step-by-Step

1. Check the preload date for your platform. The official preload dates are typically announced a few days before release. For Monster Hunter Wilds, the release date is February 28, 2025. Preload dates are usually:
   • PlayStation 5: Preload usually begins 48 hours before launch, so around February 26, 2025.
   • Xbox Series X|S: Similar to PS5, preload typically opens 48 hours before launch (February 26, 2025).
   • PC (Steam): Preload usually opens 48 hours before launch as well (February 26, 2025).
2. Ensure your platform is set to allow preloads.
   • PS5: Go to Settings > System > Automatic Downloads and ensure “Pre-download Game Pre-orders” is enabled.
   • Xbox: Go to Settings > System > Updates and ensure “Keep my games & apps up to date” is checked. Preloads usually start automatically if you have the pre-order.
   • Steam: Preloads are manual—you’ll see a “Preload” button on the game’s page once available.
3. Start the preload on your platform.
   • PS5: Navigate to your Library > Purchased, find Monster Hunter Wilds, and select “Download” (or it will auto-start if enabled).
   • Xbox: Go to My Games & Apps > See All > Full Library > Owned Games, find the game, and select “Install” (or it will auto-start).
   • Steam: Open your Library, find Monster Hunter Wilds, and click the “Preload” button on the game’s page.
4. Monitor the download progress. The preload is a large download (around 50 GB). Ensure your console or PC does not enter sleep mode during the download. You can check progress in the download queue or notifications.
5. Wait for the release time. The game unlocks at a specific time on February 28, 2025. The exact time varies by region and platform. For example, on Steam, it typically unlocks at 12:00 AM EST (midnight) or 12:00 AM PST, depending on your region. Console versions may unlock at 12:00 AM local time on the release date.
6. Install the day-one patch (if any). After the preload is complete, there may be a small day-one update that downloads on release day. This is normal and usually quick.
7. Start playing! Once the game unlocks, you can launch it and begin your hunt.

Common Mistakes

• Not enabling automatic preloads: On PS5 and Xbox, if you don’t enable the automatic preload setting, you must manually start the download. Missing this can delay your playtime.
• Assuming preload is available everywhere: Preload dates and times may vary by region. Always check the official Monster Hunter Wilds social media or the store page for your region.
• Not having enough storage: The game requires ~50 GB. If you’re low on space, the download will fail. Clear space before the preload date.
• Preloading on the wrong console: If you own multiple consoles, ensure you are preloading on the one you plan to play on, and that it’s set as your primary/home console.
• Ignoring the unlock time: Preload does not let you play early; you must wait for the official release time. Don’t expect to play at midnight if the official unlock is later in the day.

Tips

• Preload as early as possible: Start the download as soon as it’s available to avoid network congestion and ensure it’s done before release.
• Use a wired connection: For a large download, a wired Ethernet connection is more stable and faster than Wi-Fi.
• Pause other downloads: If you have other games downloading, pause them to give Monster Hunter Wilds full bandwidth.
• Check for updates: Before the release date, check for any system updates on your console or PC, as these can sometimes interfere with the preload.
• Join the community: Follow official Monster Hunter Wilds social media or community forums for the most accurate preload times and any last-minute changes.

Troubleshooting

• Preload button not appearing on Steam: If the preload button is missing, restart Steam, or verify the game is properly pre-ordered. Sometimes the preload becomes available a few hours later than announced.
• Download stuck at 0% or slow: Pause and resume the download, restart your router, or switch to a wired connection. On consoles, try restarting the console.
• Insufficient storage error: Delete unused games or media to free up space. You can also move other games to an external drive (on console) to make room.
• Preload downloaded but game won’t launch: Ensure you have the day-one patch installed. If not, check for updates in your library. On Steam, right-click the game > Properties > Installed Files > Verify integrity of game files.
• Preload not starting automatically on PS5/Xbox: Manually go to the game’s page in your library and select Download/Install. If that fails, check your internet connection and try again.
• Game size larger than expected: The preload size may be smaller than the final install size due to compression. After the preload, the console/PC will decompress and install, requiring additional space. Ensure you have at least 60 GB free to be safe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I play the game before the official release if I preload?

No, preloading only downloads the game files. The game is encrypted and cannot be played until the official release time on February 28, 2025.

Do I need to keep my pre-order to play after preloading?

Yes, you must have an active pre-order (or Game Pass subscription if applicable) to play the game. If you cancel your pre-order, the game will be removed from your library.

Can I preload on PC if I bought the game from a third-party key site?

Yes, as long as you redeem the key on Steam, the preload will appear in your Steam library.

Is there a preload for the beta or demo?

No, the beta and demo versions are separate downloads and do not count as a preload for the full game. You will need to download the full game separately.

What time does the game unlock on February 28?

The unlock time varies by platform and region. On Steam, it typically unlocks at 12:00 AM EST (midnight) or 12:00 AM PST, depending on your region. Consoles often unlock at 12:00 AM local time. Check the store page for your region for exact times.

Can I preload on multiple devices?

Yes, you can preload on any device where you have access to your account, but you can only play on one device at a time. On consoles, you may need to set your primary console to allow offline play.

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