Comparison
Monster Hunter Wilds is the better pick if you want newer systems, crossplay, faster travel, and modern onboarding. Monster Hunter World is still worth playing if you want a cheaper, proven entry with a huge expansion path.
Choose Wilds if you want the current player base, cross-platform multiplayer, Seikret traversal, Focus Mode, weapon switching, and smoother modern systems. Choose World if you want a mature package, lower price, and Iceborne's long progression curve.
Play Wilds if your friends are split across platforms, you want to learn the newest systems now, or you care about being active during current updates and events.
Play World if you want a proven Monster Hunter entry with years of knowledge, a large expansion, and a lower-risk purchase. It is also a strong training ground if you want to learn weapons before moving into Wilds.
It is the next major Monster Hunter entry after World, with many familiar foundations and several major system changes.
Yes. Wilds supports crossplay across PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.
Yes. World remains a strong entry point, especially with Iceborne.
Wilds is better for the current multiplayer ecosystem, while World is better for budget-friendly learning.
Only if you have time or want the cheaper practice route. It is helpful, not mandatory.