Top 25 Monster Hunter Monsters Revealed

Over the past two decades, the Monster Hunter series has thrilled fans with its iconic, awe-inspiring monster designs that evoke a mix of fear, delight, and wonder. Whether you started with the original PlayStation 2 game or joined the fray with the blockbuster success of Monster Hunter: World in 2018, there's likely a monster that has captured your heart. Capcom's beloved hunting RPG series features over 200 unique monsters, and we've sifted through them to bring you our top 25—the cream of the crop, the beasts that we can't stop talking about, even as we dread facing them in battle. With Monster Hunter Wilds set to expand the roster further, it's the perfect time to celebrate some of the best monsters the series has to offer.

25. Malzeno

Malzeno, introduced in the Sunbreak expansion for Monster Hunter Rise, is a striking Elder Dragon that leaves a lasting impression. Its mesmerizing glow and life-draining abilities make it a terrifying adversary. This vampire-like creature not only drains life but also enhances the eerie atmosphere of the Sunbreak's castle ruins, making the battle against Malzeno a memorable gothic experience that fans will remember for years to come.

24. Behemoth

Thanks to a collaboration with Final Fantasy 14, Monster Hunter: World welcomed the formidable Behemoth. Its unique mechanics, borrowed from its Final Fantasy roots, require hunters to strategize like in an MMO, with roles for tanks, healers, and damage dealers. Dodging Behemoth's devastating Ecliptic Meteor attack is a nerve-wracking challenge, but the triumph of overcoming it is unparalleled.

23. Vaal Hazak

Vaal Hazak, an Elder Dragon from the depths of the Rotten Vale in Monster Hunter: World, is a grotesque sight. With its poisonous gas and decaying flesh, this monster is not for the faint-hearted. Its haunting design and the eerie environment of its lair make Vaal Hazak a standout in the series, challenging hunters both visually and tactically.

22. Legiana

Legiana, the swift wyvern from Monster Hunter: World, is a thrilling encounter in the Coral Highlands. Its speed and icy precision demand agility and skill from hunters. Whether facing the original or its Iceborne variant, Legiana remains a challenging and rewarding hunt that teaches the importance of staying sharp and adaptable.

21. Bazelgeuse

Bazelgeuse, the explosive wyvern, is a notorious disruptor in the Monster Hunter series. Its aggressive bombing tactics can turn any hunt into chaos. This apex predator forces hunters to master the art of timing and patience, making every encounter with Bazelgeuse a test of endurance and strategy.

20. Black Diablos

Black Diablos, the aggressive female variant of Diablos, is a force to be reckoned with. Its territorial nature and ability to erupt from the desert sands make it a challenging foe. Engaging Black Diablos is a battle of attrition, requiring hunters to chip away at its formidable armor over time.

19. Shara Ishvalda

Shara Ishvalda, the final boss of Monster Hunter: World's Iceborne expansion, is a testament to the series' epic scale. Starting as a rock-like creature, it transforms into a majestic Elder Dragon with unique finger-like wings. The battle against Shara Ishvalda is a cinematic experience, leaving a lasting impression on all who face it.

18. Furious Rajang

Furious Rajang, an electrified variant of the original Rajang, is a powerhouse. Its Super Saiyan-like transformation and acrobatic attacks make it a relentless adversary. While it may be frustrating, Furious Rajang earns respect for its sheer intensity and challenge.

17. Astalos

Astalos, the lightning-fast wyvern from Monster Hunter Generations and revamped in Monster Hunter Rise's Sunbreak, is both beautiful and deadly. Its aggressive nature and stunning electric attacks make every encounter a thrilling decision: flee or fight. Astalos tests a hunter's courage and combat prowess.

16. Amatsu

Amatsu, the storm-controlling Elder Dragon, is a breathtaking sight. Its ability to manipulate wind and rain creates a dynamic battlefield. Reintroduced in Monster Hunter Rise's Sunbreak, Amatsu's aerial maneuvers and devastating tornadoes make it a formidable and visually spectacular foe.

15. Raging Brachydios

Raging Brachydios, the explosive variant of Brachydios, is a relentless force. Its volatile slime and arena-wide explosions keep hunters on their toes. Mastering the rhythm of this fight is challenging but incredibly rewarding, making Raging Brachydios a memorable encounter.

14. Glavenus

Glavenus, with its sword-like tail, is a standout from Monster Hunter Generations and Iceborne. Its unique design and brutal attacks make it a beloved monster. Watching Glavenus sharpen its tail with its teeth is a metal spectacle that adds to the excitement of the hunt.

13. Teostra

Teostra, a fiery Elder Dragon since Monster Hunter 2, is a series veteran. Its mastery of fire and devastating supernova attack make it a classic challenge. Teostra's presence is a testament to the enduring appeal of the Monster Hunter series.

12. Namielle

Namielle, the water and electricity-wielding Elder Dragon, is a unique and dynamic foe. Its ability to slide across the battlefield and shock hunters with electricity makes for an engaging fight. Namielle's elegant design and powerful moveset make it a highlight of the series.

11. Gore Magala

Gore Magala, the blind Elder Dragon, is a terrifying creature. Its ability to sense prey through scattered scales and its transformation into Shagaru Magala make it a fascinating monster. Gore Magala's lifecycle adds depth to the series, making it a standout entry.

10. Rathalos

Rathalos, the iconic red wyvern, is the face of the Monster Hunter series. Featured on the cover of the original game and appearing in numerous titles, Rathalos is a beloved and challenging monster. Its presence is a staple of the series, cherished by fans worldwide.

9. Fatalis

Fatalis, one of the most powerful Elder Dragons, is a legend in the Monster Hunter series. Known for its ability to destroy entire castles, Fatalis is the ultimate challenge. Its imposing figure and devastating fire breath make it a monster to be feared and respected.

8. Kirin

Kirin, the graceful yet deadly unicorn-like Elder Dragon, is a deceptive foe. Its swift movements and lightning attacks can catch hunters off guard. Kirin's elegance and danger make it a memorable monster, beloved despite its lethal nature.

7. Mizutsune

Mizutsune, the water jet-blasting leviathan, is a captivating monster. Its fluid movements and bubble attacks create a mesmerizing battle. Mizutsune's beauty and challenge make it a favorite among hunters, offering a unique and enchanting experience.

6. Lagiacrus

Lagiacrus, the underwater leviathan from Monster Hunter 3, is a formidable opponent. Its ability to swim circles around hunters and the challenge of fighting underwater make it a memorable monster. Lagiacrus defines a generation of hunters, leaving a lasting impact.

5. Crimson Glow Valstrax

Crimson Glow Valstrax, the jet-like variant of Valstrax, is a stunning addition to Monster Hunter: Rise. Its flaming wings and high-speed attacks make for an exhilarating battle. Crimson Glow Valstrax's unique design sets it apart as one of the series' most innovative monsters.

4. Savage Deviljho

Savage Deviljho, the ferocious variant of Deviljho, is a relentless predator. Its constant rage and devastating breath attacks make it a daunting challenge. Savage Deviljho embodies the series' philosophy of pushing hunters to their limits.

3. Nargacuga

Nargacuga, the panther-like wyvern, is a thrilling hunt. Its stealth and speed make it a formidable predator. Nargacuga's consistent presence and challenging nature make it a fan favorite, showcasing the series' best monster design.

2. Nergigante

Nergigante, the iconic Elder Dragon from Monster Hunter: World, is a signature monster. Its regenerating spikes and aggressive attacks make it a fearsome foe. Nergigante's design, arena, and theme cement its place among the series' greatest monsters.

1. Zinogre

Zinogre, the electrifying fanged wyvern, claims the top spot. Its confidence and powerful lightning attacks make it a standout monster. Zinogre's ability to supercharge with Thunderbugs and its dynamic battles make it a beloved creature that embodies the spirit of the Monster Hunter series.

These are our top 25 monsters from the Monster Hunter series. While there are countless others that didn't make the list, these are the creatures that have left the deepest impact on us. Let us know in the comments below which monster is your favorite.