Get ready for *Monster Hunter Wilds*, launching globally on Friday, February 28th! However, a staggered release means some regions get access earlier. Here's how to use the New Zealand trick to jump in ahead of the curve.
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The easiest method for early access is on Xbox Series X|S. Xbox simplifies region changing, effectively fooling your console into thinking it's in a different time zone. Here's how to change your Xbox region and play *Monster Hunter Wilds* early:
To utilize the New Zealand trick, adjust your Xbox's language and location settings. Navigate to Xbox settings, then System, followed by Language & Location. Change your Location to New Zealand. Restart your Xbox for the changes to take effect. You should then be able to play *Monster Hunter Wilds* concurrently with the earliest launch region.
How To Play *Monster Hunter Wilds* Early on PlayStation and PC
While significantly less straightforward than on Xbox, the New Zealand trick is still possible on PlayStation and PC, albeit with added complexity. Since directly changing your region won't work on PS5 and PC, you'll need a separate account.
To play early on PlayStation 5 or PC, create a PSN or Steam account using a New Zealand address and purchase the game on that account. This will require purchasing the game using NZ$, which might be slightly more expensive than the USD equivalent. The price difference might necessitate purchasing New Zealand-specific PSN or Steam gift cards from a third-party vendor, depending on your card's international transaction capabilities.
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When Can I Play *Monster Hunter Wilds*? Regional Rollout Explained
The image above details the varied release times across different regions. Auckland, New Zealand, boasts the earliest launch at 12 AM NZDT, translating to 6 AM the previous day in New York and 3 AM on the West Coast. The New Zealand trick allows US players to enjoy almost an entire extra day of gameplay, starting Thursday, February 27th.
There you have it—how to play *Monster Hunter Wilds* early using the New Zealand trick.