The script also fumbles with the forced nods that it makes to the main series of games. Aiden's character development just struggles to feel organic and we are given little time at all to get to know the characters he meets along his journey.

Sadly though, I found its 55 minute duration (without credits) to feel far too short. I also found the voice cast here to be superb with Dante Basco (Avatar: The Last Airbender, Hook) knocking it out the park with his portrayal of Aiden and with Brando Eaton (Dexter, The Mentalist) also delivering a memorable performance when playing Julius.

With it acting as an origins story, no prior knowledge is required, but for fans of the series there is value to be gained in seeing an existing character's story getting fleshed out. Starting with the positives, I liked how the story here is accessible to both those newcomers and series veterans. Much of the plot focuses on Aiden forging together a plan of attack and learning the ways of being a hunter from his newfound mentor Julius. This well-worn narrative sees Aiden transform from a scrappy teenager to a seasoned hunter after he is tasked with defending his village against the rampage of an all-power Elder Dragon. Legends of the Guild acts as a prequel to both of the aforementioned titles, as it follows the backstory of Aiden, a young Ace Hunter that you will have likely encountered on your monster slaying journey.

Known as Legends of the Guild, this short film is tied narratively to both Monster Hunter 4 and World and it sports a gorgeous CG style that looks more in line with the main series of games. Still, whilst this was disappointing for many, fans still had one last flicker of hope as Netflix revealed it was cooking up a Monster Hunter movie of its own. Released during the pandemic, the franchise's theatrical debut was slated by critics for its clunky writing and muddled plot, and it struggled to even recuperate its budget of $60 million.

Monster hunter: legends of the guild