Gameplay

Just like Monster Hunter and Monster Hunter G, the players are completing quests and gathering materials to upgrade their equipment in order to advance in this game. The more rare the items and equipment, the stronger the main physical statistics of the characters will be. Unlike other hack 'n' slash games, in this game the players need plans and skill in order to overcome large monsters instead of using brute force. There are many weapons which the hunter can use to bring down the monsters, there are sword and shield, great sword, dual swords, hammer, lance, bowgun and the heavy bowgun. Each requires a variety of items to create which are acquired by completing quests, and collecting the spoils carved from monsters or found on the ground.

Single Player

In this mode the player can do quests from the village elder, and enter the Offline Gathering Hall to do guild quests alone, and buy items to aid them in their quest. The player can also tend to a farm to harvest useful items. 

Multiplayer

The players can go on quests with other monster hunter players via the PSP's adhoc when they enter the Online Gathering Hall. They can exchange guild cards which keep track of the characters stats. They can also go on treasure hunting quests. While the characters are waiting for others to join their quests there is a table they can sit at. While sitting at the table, you can push the different directions on the d-pad to perform various animations such as swinging their beer mug, or get drunk and pass out. Players can also use third party software to connect and play with other players over the internet.