The March 2025 presentation of the Monster Hunter Wilds Showcase brought fresh insights into the anticipated Title Update 1, while also offering a brief glimpse at what’s to come in the second update. Amid that brief footage, eagle-eyed fans caught hints that strongly suggested a long-anticipated return — that of the formidable Lagiacrus.
Towards the conclusion of the broadcast, just as the Title Update 2 banner appeared, some familiar aquatic noises were heard, quickly followed by the visual of a scaly, clawed foot. For longtime fans of the franchise, these details were unmistakable — the clues appeared to clearly point to the reappearance of Lagiacrus, a creature many have been waiting years to hunt again.
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A Leviathan’s Legacy
Lagiacrus made its grand debut in Monster Hunter 3, also known as Monster Hunter Tri, and served as that game’s flagship creature, proudly displayed on its cover. More than just a marketing figurehead, Lagiacrus held a unique place in the series for introducing underwater battles — a feature that defined much of Tri’s gameplay. While later appearances, such as in Monster Hunter Generations, relocated the fight to dry land, the aquatic leviathan has largely been absent from subsequent titles.
There was a moment when Capcom had experimented with reintroducing Lagiacrus into Monster Hunter: World. A prototype of the monster’s return was even shown during a GDC 2018 presentation. However, despite fan excitement, the creature ultimately didn’t make it into the final version of the game. Some of the technology developed during that attempt, however, was later utilized in crafting another creature — Jyuratodus.
Absence Has Only Strengthened the Bond
The long period without Lagiacrus hasn’t diminished the community’s passion. For many, Monster Hunter Tri marked their entry into the franchise, and the thrill of fighting this iconic beast remains a vivid memory. The creature’s unique look and fighting style made it a fan favorite, and many continue to associate it with the hopes of seeing underwater combat return to the series in some form. One community member once commented in a discussion that those who wish for Lagiacrus to return often hope it means a return of underwater battles as well, suggesting the two ideas are inextricably linked.
Beyond the gameplay mechanics, Lagiacrus continues to enjoy widespread admiration. In a recent popularity poll celebrating the franchise’s 20th anniversary, the beast secured third place, trailing only behind Nergigante and Zinogre. Even its alternate form, the Abyssal Lagiacrus, earned a respectable twelfth spot — notably ranking higher than Mizutsune, who is set to feature in Title Update 1 of Monster Hunter Wilds.
Back in 2022, the Monster Hunter development team had addressed the absence of Lagiacrus in Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak. The producer at the time acknowledged the strong fan interest but cited significant technical challenges as the reason for its exclusion. He noted that Lagiacrus presented complicated animation issues due to its snake-like body and the way its parts interacted with the environment. Its writhing, serpentine movements, he explained, made it a very complex monster to render properly within the engine.
Looking Ahead to Summer
Now, with the signals pointing toward its imminent arrival in Monster Hunter Wilds, it seems Capcom has managed to overcome those earlier limitations. Whether this upcoming version of Lagiacrus remains land-based, is an entirely new form, or heralds the return of aquatic combat remains a mystery for now. Nevertheless, the excitement among the fanbase is palpable. Enthusiasts are expressing their joy across comment sections, with many declaring this return as the pinnacle of the series and crediting their long-held hopes for willing this return into existence.
As the launch of Title Update 1 draws nearer and the community looks ahead to the summer release window for Title Update 2, it appears likely that Lagiacrus will play a central role in the upcoming content. For both longtime veterans and newcomers to the Monster Hunter world, that prospect is something truly thrilling.