Hunting games on PlayStation 4 offer thrilling virtual experiences for both avid hunters and gaming enthusiasts. From realistic simulations to fantasy monster hunts, PS4 has a diverse range of titles to satisfy your hunting cravings.
This comprehensive guide explores the best hunting games available on PS4, helping you choose the perfect virtual hunting adventure.
Introduction to Hunting Games on PS4
Hunting games provide an immersive way to experience the thrill of the hunt from the comfort of your living room. These games often feature detailed environments, realistic animal behaviors, and authentic hunting mechanics.
Whether you’re looking to hone your real-life hunting skills or simply enjoy the excitement of tracking and capturing virtual prey, PS4 hunting games offer something for everyone.
Top Realistic Hunting Simulators for PS4
TheHunter: Call of the Wild
TheHunter: Call of the Wild stands out as the most authentic hunting simulation available on PS4. Developed by Expansive Worlds, this game offers:
- Vast, beautifully crafted open-world environments
- Realistic animal behaviors and advanced AI
- A wide variety of hunting equipment and techniques
- Dynamic weather and environmental factors affecting gameplay
The attention to detail in TheHunter: Call of the Wild is remarkable, from the way animals react to sound and scent to the impact of wind direction on your hunt. This level of realism makes it a top choice for serious hunting enthusiasts.
Hunting Simulator 2
Hunting Simulator 2 builds upon its predecessor, offering an improved and more comprehensive hunting experience. Key features include:
- Diverse hunting locations across North America and Europe
- Over 30 animal species to hunt
- Licensed hunting gear from real-world brands
- Detailed tracking systems and animal behaviors
The game’s focus on realism extends to its hunting mechanics, requiring players to consider factors like wind direction, scent, and noise when stalking their prey.
Cabela’s Hunting Games
The Cabela’s series has long been a staple in the hunting game genre. While newer titles can be harder to find, games like Cabela’s Big Game Hunter offer:
- A variety of hunting scenarios and locations
- Multiple game species to hunt
- Realistic ballistics and weapon handling
- Arcade-style gameplay options for casual players
Cabela’s games strike a balance between realism and accessibility, making them suitable for both newcomers and experienced virtual hunters.
Open World Games with Hunting Elements
Red Dead Redemption 2
While not exclusively a hunting game, Red Dead Redemption 2 features one of the most comprehensive and enjoyable hunting systems in any open-world game. Highlights include:
- A vast array of wildlife in a beautifully realized Old West setting
- Realistic animal behaviors and ecosystems
- Detailed skinning and crafting mechanics
- Legendary animals offering unique hunting challenges
The hunting in Red Dead Redemption 2 is so well-implemented that it could almost be a standalone game, offering hours of engaging gameplay for hunting enthusiasts. If you enjoy this style of game, you might also like other games similar to Red Dead Redemption.
Horizon Zero Dawn
Horizon Zero Dawn offers a unique twist on hunting games, setting players in a post-apocalyptic world where mechanical beasts roam the land. While not traditional hunting, the game offers:
- Strategic “hunting” of robotic creatures
- A variety of weapons and traps to take down prey
- Beautiful open-world environments to explore
- A compelling story intertwined with the hunting mechanics
The game’s innovative approach to “hunting” provides a fresh and exciting experience for players looking for something different. For more games with similar gameplay, check out our list of games like Horizon Zero Dawn.
Unique Hunting Experiences on PS4
Monster Hunter: World
The Monster Hunter series takes hunting to fantastical realms, offering players the chance to track and battle massive mythical creatures. Monster Hunter: World features:
- Epic battles against diverse and imaginative monsters
- Complex ecosystems and monster behaviors
- A wide array of weaponry and hunting styles
- Cooperative multiplayer hunts
While not a traditional hunting simulator, Monster Hunter: World captures the essence of tracking, preparing for, and executing the perfect hunt in a fantasy setting. If you enjoy this game, you might also like other games similar to Monster Hunter.
Fishing Sim World: Pro Tour
For a different kind of hunting experience on water, Fishing Sim World: Pro Tour offers an immersive fishing simulation. This game features:
- Realistic fishing mechanics and environments
- A variety of fish species and fishing locations around the world
- Career mode where you can become a professional angler
- Multiplayer options for competitive fishing
While not a hunting game in the traditional sense, Fishing Sim World: Pro Tour provides a challenging and rewarding experience for those who enjoy the patience and skill required in fishing.
For more aquatic adventures, explore our recommendations for the best fishing games.
Multiplayer Hunting Games
Many PS4 hunting games offer multiplayer options, allowing you to share the experience with friends:
- TheHunter: Call of the Wild supports up to 8 players in cooperative or competitive hunting
- Monster Hunter: World shines in its cooperative multiplayer, supporting up to 4 players
- Red Dead Online (part of Red Dead Redemption 2) allows players to hunt together in its open world
Multiplayer adds a social dimension to hunting games, whether you’re competing for the biggest catch or working together to take down formidable prey.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hunting Game
When selecting a PS4 hunting game, consider the following:
- Realism vs. Arcade-style gameplay: Decide whether you prefer a highly realistic simulation or a more accessible, action-oriented experience.
- Variety of animals and environments: Look for games that offer diverse wildlife and hunting locations to keep the experience fresh.
- Hunting tools and mechanics: Consider the range of weapons, equipment, and hunting techniques available in each game.
- Graphics and sound design: High-quality visuals and audio can greatly enhance the immersion of a hunting game.
- Learning curve: Some games are more beginner-friendly, while others cater to experienced virtual hunters.
For players who enjoy games with similar mechanics to hunting games but in different settings, consider exploring games like Zelda for PS4.
Tips for Getting Started with PS4 Hunting Games
- Start with the tutorials: Most games offer comprehensive tutorials to help you learn the basics.
- Practice patience: Realistic hunting games often require a slow, methodical approach.
- Learn animal behaviors: Understanding how different species behave will improve your hunting success.
- Experiment with different weapons and tools: Try various hunting methods to find what works best for you.
- Join online communities: Connect with other players to share tips and experiences.
Optimizing Your PS4 for Hunting Games
To enhance your hunting game experience, consider upgrading your PS4 with an SSD for faster load times and smoother gameplay. Check out our guide on the best SSDs for PS4 to find the right upgrade for your console.
Conclusion
The PS4 offers a rich variety of hunting games to suit different preferences. For the most realistic experience, TheHunter: Call of the Wild and Hunting Simulator 2 are top choices. Red Dead Redemption 2 provides an excellent all-around gaming experience with strong hunting elements. For unique twists on the hunting genre, consider Monster Hunter: World or Horizon Zero Dawn.
Ultimately, the best hunting game for you depends on your personal preferences. Whether you’re seeking ultra-realism, arcade-style action, or something in between, there’s a PS4 hunting game that will satisfy your virtual hunting desires.
FAQs About PS4 Hunting Games
- Are PS4 hunting games suitable for beginners? Yes, many games offer tutorials and adjustable difficulty levels to accommodate new players.
- Can I play these hunting games offline? Most PS4 hunting games offer offline single-player modes, though some features may require an internet connection.
- Do I need any special controllers for PS4 hunting games? Standard PS4 controllers work well for most hunting games, though some may support additional peripherals for enhanced immersion.
- Are there any educational benefits to playing hunting games? Many realistic hunting games can teach players about animal behaviors, conservation, and basic hunting principles.
- How often are new hunting games released for PS4? While not as frequent as some genres, new hunting games or updates to existing titles are released periodically, keeping the genre fresh for enthusiasts.