Usually, we ignore sales numbers. Commercial success doesn’t necessarily correlate with quality or the subjective value of entertainment or vice versa. However, Capcom keeps updating us with how many copies of Monster Hunter Portable 2nd G they shipped in Japan. We’re up to 1.5 million now. A week ago when the game was on shelves for barely a week 1 million copies were sent out the door. At this attrition rate it’s safe to say Monster Hunter Portable 2nd G is attracting new users.
I tend to think population density and wireless play are elements of its popularity. I have seen many people play some iteration of Monster Hunter Portable on subways while clustering between cars. You have to do something to kill time while riding public transportation. Why not hunt monsters with your friends?
Outside of metropolitan areas many people in North America drive and I doubt Capcom is going to flagship a drive-n-dragon-slay campaign. How can Capcom replicate the success of the Monster Hunter Portable series when part of the reason is due to lifestyle differences? Capcom USA has a challenge if they really plan to make the series explode outside of Asia.
Speaking of Capcom USA they are holding a secret screening for an upcoming game on April 10th (i.e. this Thursday). If you are nearby San Mateo you can throw your hat in the ring for a chance to visit Capcom’s headquarters and earn some swag. You might even play Monster Hunter Freedom 2G.
Images courtesy of Capcom.
Published: Apr 8, 2008 08:07 am