My Wishlist for Monster Hunter Wilds: Cozy Pajamas for My Pig Companion

I’ve been deeply engrossed in Monster Hunter Wilds since it hit the shelves a few weeks back. My focus has been on climbing the ranks in the high-level areas, and I’m torn between which new armor set to craft next. Currently, I’m on the hunt for the formidable Jin Dahaad, but the Gravios armor, perfect for my hammer build, has really caught my eye. There’s certainly no shortage of activities in Wilds, but there’s a little spark that’s missing.

What I’m hoping for is the chance to dress up a pig in adorable outfits and tote him around like a baby.

I’m referring to the beloved Poogie, an endearing pig with floppy ears, almost as iconic as the fearsome Rathalos in the Monster Hunter series. Poogies have made appearances in various Monster Hunter games. My first encounter with one was in the hub world of Monster Hunter World. The process of petting Poogie involves a cute little ritual: shower him with love and time your button presses just right, and Poogie will be overjoyed. Of course, nothing’s ever simple in Monster Hunter games, and a mistimed pet could result in Poogie scampering off until you tackle another quest.

In older Monster Hunter games, Poogie would often roam around main gathering spots, and petting him before heading out on a hunt was seen as a way to boost your luck for snagging rare monster parts. There’s a belief among some fans that this feature might actually exist in the game’s code, though nobody’s ever proved it.

But Poogie isn’t just about luck. In past games, gaining Poogie’s trust allowed you to dress him in all sorts of fun costumes. Who wouldn’t want to see a pig rocking a bee outfit? In Monster Hunter World, I would lovingly carry Poogie around the hub, waiting for the telltale controller vibration that signaled treasure was nearby. (Check out YouTuber TagBackTV’s video for a detailed guide on this.)

Monster Hunter Wilds does feature a Poogie, but players won’t encounter him until the third chapter, tucked away in a village rarely visited unless for specific quests. While this Poogie is often seen balancing a spherical frog on its back, which is undeniably cute, it doesn’t offer the interactive charm of previous games. There’s no option for stripey pajamas or a wooly ram costume this time. All I can do now is give Poogie a pat and change his name.

With the Title 1 update for Monster Hunter Wilds set to drop next week, Capcom has teased a detailed gathering hub as a new base, adding an alternative to the usual campsites across the Forbidden Lands. The 12-minute update video from Capcom promises exciting additions at the Grand Hub, like various games and an expanded kitchen. I’m particularly thrilled about this, as it hints at the potential return of the beloved Meowscular Chef.

However, the new hub won’t quite feel complete to me unless I can scoop up a pig and give it a big hug. So, Capcom, here’s a heartfelt plea: grant us this small joy.