The 25 Best Monster Hunter Monsters

Celebrating 20 Years of Monster Hunter: Top 25 Most Memorable Monsters

For two decades, the Monster Hunter franchise has captivated players with its incredible roster of fearsome beasts. From the PlayStation 2 debut to the chart-topping success of Monster Hunter: World, countless hunters have forged bonds with their favorite monsters, both loved and loathed in equal measure. With over 200 creatures in the series, selecting the best is a daunting task, but we've compiled our top 25 – the most iconic, memorable, and thrilling monsters to hunt. And with the addition of new monsters in Monster Hunter Wilds, this is the perfect time to revisit some of the series' finest.

25. Malzeno

Introduced in Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak, Malzeno, a powerful Elder Dragon, immediately made its mark. Its glowing aura and life-draining abilities create a truly terrifying presence. The gothic atmosphere of the Sunbreak castle ruins further enhances the chilling encounter, making this hunt unforgettable.

24. Behemoth

A crossover event with Final Fantasy XIV brought the colossal Behemoth to Monster Hunter: World. Its iconic Final Fantasy moveset demands strategic teamwork, requiring a tank, healer, and damage dealers to succeed. Dodging its Ecliptic Meteor remains a challenge, but the triumph is incredibly rewarding.

23. Vaal Hazak

Residing in the Rotten Vale's bone-strewn depths, Vaal Hazak (Monster Hunter: World) is a grotesque Elder Dragon. Its poisonous gas and decaying appearance are truly unsettling. The sheer horror of its design and the challenging fight make it a memorable and stomach-churning experience.

22. Legiana

Hunting Legiana across the Coral Highlands (Monster Hunter: World) is a test of skill. Its speed and precise attacks demand constant vigilance. While the Iceborne expansion introduced a Shrieking Legiana, the original remains a classic example of a fast, deadly, and memorable hunt.

21. Bazelgeuse

Bazelgeuse is infamous for its aggressive bombing runs. This apex predator's unpredictable attacks and team-wiping potential make it a frustrating but memorable foe, teaching hunters the importance of patience and timing.

20. Black Diablos

The female Diablos, Black Diablos, are even more aggressive and territorial. Their ability to ambush from beneath the sand creates a thrilling and challenging fight, a true test of endurance and skill.

19. Shara Ishvalda

The final boss of Monster Hunter: World's Iceborne expansion, Shara Ishvalda, is a massive Elder Dragon. Its initial rocky exterior hides a terrifying true form, culminating in a spectacular and unforgettable final battle.

18. Furious Rajang

The enraged variant of Rajang, Furious Rajang, is a powerhouse. Its electrifying golden fur and acrobatic fighting style make it a relentless and memorable opponent.

17. Astalos

Astalos (Monster Hunter Generations and Sunbreak) is a hyper-aggressive flying wyvern. Its lightning attacks and prismatic wings create a visually stunning and deadly encounter.

16. Amatsu

Amatsu, the Elder Dragon, commands storms and wind. Its ability to manipulate the environment creates a dynamic and memorable fight, especially its impressive Sunbreak appearance.

15. Raging Brachydios

Raging Brachydios is a relentless brawler. Its volatile slime and explosive attacks keep hunters constantly moving, making for a challenging but rewarding hunt.

14. Glavenus

Glavenus, with its bladed tail, is a unique and memorable monster. Its brutal attacks and the way it sharpens its tail are both impressive and terrifying.

13. Teostra

A series veteran, Teostra is a classic fire-wielding Elder Dragon. Its intense fire attacks and devastating supernova make it a truly iconic and challenging hunt.

12. Namielle

Namielle's unique combination of water and electricity creates a dynamic and unpredictable fight. Its fluid movements and powerful attacks make it a standout Elder Dragon.

11. Gore Magala

Gore Magala is a nightmare creature. Its six limbs, grabbing claws, and ability to sense body heat make it a terrifying and memorable opponent. Its evolution into Shagaru Magala adds another layer to its intrigue.

10. Rathalos

The series mascot, Rathalos, is an iconic red wyvern. Its presence in numerous games and crossovers solidifies its place as a legendary and beloved Monster Hunter creature.

9. Fatalis

Fatalis, a massive black Elder Dragon, is one of the series' strongest monsters. Its ability to destroy castles and its devastating fire breath make it a truly fearsome and memorable final boss.

8. Kirin

Kirin's elegant appearance belies its deadly nature. Its lightning attacks and swift movements make it a challenging and visually stunning hunt.

7. Mizutsune

Mizutsune, a leviathan, uses water jets and bubbles to hinder hunters. Its graceful movements and dynamic attacks create a visually spectacular and memorable fight.

6. Lagiacrus

Lagiacrus, a leviathan from Monster Hunter 3, is a formidable underwater opponent. Navigating its aquatic domain adds a unique challenge to this memorable hunt.

5. Crimson Glow Valstrax

Crimson Glow Valstrax (Monster Hunter Rise DLC) is a unique and visually striking monster. Its jet-like speed and fiery attacks create a memorable and thrilling hunt.

4. Savage Deviljho

Savage Deviljho is a relentless and powerful monster. Its constant rage and devastating attacks make it a truly challenging and unforgettable hunt.

3. Nargacuga

Nargacuga, a shadowy panther-like wyvern, is a terrifying predator. Its ambush tactics and swift attacks create a thrilling and memorable hunting experience.

2. Nergigante

Nergigante, Monster Hunter World's signature monster, is a powerful Elder Dragon. Its regenerating horns and devastating attacks make it a memorable and challenging final boss.

1. Zinogre

Zinogre, the thunder cat, takes the top spot. Its electrifying attacks, powerful presence, and memorable design make it a truly iconic and thrilling monster to hunt.

These are just 25 of the hundreds of incredible monsters in the Monster Hunter series. Share your favorites in the comments below!