Monster Hunter: Legends of the Guild (2021) – A Short CG Adventure for Fans
Monster Hunter: Legends of the Guild is a 58-minute CG-animated film based on Capcom’s beloved Monster Hunter video game series. Directed by Steve Yamamoto, the film centers on Aiden, a young hunter from a remote village who dreams of joining the elite Hunter's Guild. When his home is threatened by an Elder Dragon, Aiden sets out on a journey that will test his courage, skill, and determination.
The story captures the spirit of the games, following Aiden as he trains under the seasoned hunter Julius and battles a series of iconic monsters. Fans will recognize familiar creatures like Velocidrome, Deviljho, and the fiery Elder Dragon Lunastra. The film also brings game elements to life, such as armor sets, weapon types, and hunting tactics, creating a faithful experience for longtime players.
The voice acting, particularly from Dante Basco as Aiden, adds energy and charm to the characters. The film balances action, humor, and camaraderie, showcasing the teamwork that’s central to the Monster Hunter universe.
However, the film has noticeable shortcomings. The animation, while colorful and accurate to the game’s aesthetics, often feels stiff and under-polished. Character movements can be awkward, and the pacing is uneven—likely due to its short runtime, which limits emotional development and depth. Some character arcs feel rushed, and major plot moments lack the impact they deserve.
Despite these flaws, Legends of the Guild is a decent entry point for fans wanting a quick dive into the world of Monster Hunter. It’s a passion project made for the community, with enough lore and nods to satisfy, even if it doesn’t quite reach the heights of a full-fledged feature film.
In short: a fun, bite-sized adventure that’s best enjoyed by those already familiar with the hunt.
