Monster Hunter Outlanders director Bryan Li says the upcoming free-to-play mobile game will not use customization items to sell gameplay power. Developed by Tencent’s TiMi Studio Group in collaboration with Capcom, the game brings the Monster Hunter franchise to mobile devices with a new storyline, familiar monster battles, and additional exploration activities. Its monetization model will include paid content, but the developers say cosmetic purchases will focus on player expression rather than combat advantages.
In an interview with GamesIndustry.biz, published on October 29, 2026, Li explained how the team intends to balance monetization with the experience expected from the franchise. His comments address a key concern for fans familiar with free-to-play mobile games, where purchases can sometimes affect gameplay progression or competitive balance.
Monster Hunter Outlanders Will Not Sell Power Through Customization
Li identified three main monetization categories for Monster Hunter Outlanders: acquiring additional adventurers, cosmetic customization items, and features designed to save time or improve convenience. He stressed that paid adventurers will not necessarily be more powerful than other available characters. Instead, they will offer additional hunting styles that let players tailor their experience.
The director was particularly clear about the purpose of cosmetic purchases.
“We have zero intention to sell power through those customizations,”
Li told GamesIndustry.biz, explaining that these items are intended to let players express their individuality. The distinction suggests that the team wants customization to change a hunter’s appearance rather than provide a direct combat advantage.
Convenience features will form the third part of the monetization strategy. Li said the aim is to let players decide how they want to spend their time in the game. However, the practical impact of these purchases on progression and gameplay will become clearer as more details about the system emerge.
All Storylines and Core Gameplay Systems Will Be Free
Although Monster Hunter Outlanders will feature in-game purchases, Li confirmed that players will not need to pay to access its main story content and essential gameplay systems.
“Without spending a single penny, people will be able to enjoy all the storylines, all the core game modules, and all the key function systems without any kind of problems,”
the director explained. This means the developers intend to make the core experience accessible without requiring players to purchase content to continue through the story.
Capcom’s official investor relations announcement also identifies Monster Hunter Outlanders as a free-to-play mobile game with in-app purchases. Its business model differs from the premium releases that have traditionally defined the mainline franchise, making the balance between optional purchases and gameplay progression particularly important.
Beyond monetization, Outlanders introduces a new main storyline, activities along exploration routes, and an expanded crafting system. Players can also use gadgets such as zip lines and ballistas to navigate the environment, although the game will not include a riding system.
The developers have also introduced two control options. Classic Mode is designed for players familiar with mobile action games, while Adventure Mode offers simplified controls for less experienced users. According to Li, the team has repeatedly tested gameplay sessions to find a balance that suits shorter mobile playtimes.
Capcom is helping TiMi preserve the franchise’s combat principles and believable creature designs, while TiMi contributes its experience with free-to-play games and long-term live-service development. Whether Outlanders’ monetization model meets fan expectations will depend on how these systems work in practice, but Li’s comments establish the team’s stated intention: paid customization should not be a way to purchase power.
