Get ready for *Monster Hunter Wilds*, launching Friday, February 28th! A staggered release means some regions get it first. Here's how to play early using the New Zealand trick.
How To Play *Monster Hunter Wilds* Early on Xbox Series X|S
The easiest way to jump in early is on Xbox Series X|S. Xbox simplifies region changing, effectively tricking your console into thinking it's in a different time zone. Here's how:
To use the New Zealand trick, adjust your Xbox's language and location settings. Navigate to Xbox Settings, then System, followed by Language & Location. Change your Location to New Zealand. Restart your Xbox for the changes to take effect. You should then be able to play Monster Hunter Wilds alongside the earliest launch region.
How To Play *Monster Hunter Wilds* Early on PlayStation and PC
While not as straightforward as on Xbox, the New Zealand trick is still possible on PlayStation and PC, albeit with added complexity. Since region changes don't work the same way, you'll need a separate account.
To play early on PlayStation 5 or PC, create a new PSN or Steam account using a New Zealand address. Purchase the game on this account using NZD. This might cost slightly more than the USD price (around $77 USD compared to a $70 USD base price). You may need to buy New Zealand PSN or Steam gift cards from a third-party vendor depending on your card's international transaction capabilities.
*Monster Hunter Wilds* Regional Rollout
The image above details the varied release times across numerous regions. Auckland, New Zealand, gets the earliest launch at 12 AM NZDT (6 AM the previous day in New York, 3 AM on the West Coast). The New Zealand trick lets US players enjoy almost an entire extra day of gameplay, starting Thursday, February 27th.
That's how to play Monster Hunter Wilds early using the New Zealand trick!
