Wild Hearts is an epic new hunting game from EA and Koei Tecmo

EA and Koei Tecmo have officially unveiled Wild Hearts, said to be “a new kind of hunting game” featuring unique crafting mechanics. The game is set for release on February 17, 2023.

Falling under the EA Originals umbrella, developer Omega Force (famous for the “Warriors” series) is aiming to deliver a AAA epic adventure set in fantasy feudal Japan. That’s where you’ll battle against giant nature-infused beasts called Kemono with the help of Kakakuri, “sophisticated mechanisms crafted from a lost, ancient technology”.

The game is set in Azuma, a fantasy landscape inspired by feudal Japan, that is now rampaged by the Kemono. They were once peaceful, but now are altering their environment and putting citizens lives in danger. From plant-infused squirrels to a Kingtusk wild boar, players will need to restore balance across the region by hunting these creatures down and preventing them from causing even more damage. You’ll be able to play alone or with up to two friends with co-op and crossplay features across all platforms.

Check out the reveal trailer below.

“WILD HEARTS opens up a vibrant fantasy world to players that’s as untamed as it is beautiful,” said Yosuke Hayashi, Executive Vice President of KOEI TECMO GAMES CO, LTD. “With WILD HEARTS, not only did we want to showcase the evolution, infusion and real threat caused by Kemono, but we also wanted to create a game where crafting was at the core of the experience, redefining what can be possible in a beast hunting game. We have placed great care in designing our Karakuri to fit within the combat, and we’re excited for players to use these powerful mechanisms to fight giant beasts and traverse the world.”

“EA Originals is a label for those who dare to explore,” said Stuart Lang, Vice President, Global Brand, Electronic Arts. “It’s a home for studio partners – like Omega Force – forging new ways to play from bold creative visions, and for players who love to discover untold stories and unseen worlds. We are excited to follow the wonderful and critically acclaimed It Takes Two, from Hazelight Studios, with the ingenious mechanics, giant nature-infused beasts and epic battles of WILD HEARTS, the first AAA hunting experience for a new generation.”

An extended gameplay reveal is set for October 5, so we won’t have long to wait to find out more details about this intriguing game, that looks to give Monster Hunter some healthy competition.

Wild Hearts launches on February 17 for PS5, Xbox Series X|S and PC via Origin, Steam and Epic Games Store.