New Thunder Elder, More of MHW Ascendance Lao-Shan Lung Raid Revealed in State of Play

Capcom’s latest hunting game’s expansion is set to bring back some old faces, but the company isn’t relying entirely on nostalgia alone. The latest September State of Play Monster Hunter Wilds: Ascendance trailer revealed both more of the gigantic Lao-Shan Lung and a brand-new Elder Dragon. But that’s not all, as it also confirmed that the DLC takes place several years after the end of Wilds — with some side characters getting a surprising glow-up.

Before we get there, though, first up, Capcom has officially unveiled Ascendance‘s new hunting area: Skybound Eyrie. High above Wyveria, it’s chock full of ancient ruins and updrafts, letting your Seikret glide between areas. Its native monster, the Qurupeco-like Bird Wyvern, is called Araketa, otherwise known as the Jetstream Wyvern. Traveling in groups, each individuals always heed their alpha’s every command.

As Monster Hunter Wilds: Ascendance marks the return of Elder Dragons, it’s also adding a new one. There’s Gundoraja, the Black Sky’s Wrath, a floating Leviathan-shaped monster that reigns over the heavens. It’s capable of wrapping itself in storm clouds before calling down lightning strikes. The expansion also has familiar Elder Dragons in Kushala Daora and Lao-Shan Lung.

The latter received plenty of spotlight during State of Play, showing Hunters defending Madoi Stronghold against the walking mountain. Much like the older games, ballistae and cannons seem usable throughout the hunt. Rail tracks can also be spotted, seemingly hinting at some kind of mobile cannon once more.

Lao-Shan Lung and the Guardians’ sudden appearance across the Forbidden Lands aren’t the only sign that things have changed, either. Nata has grown into a proper Hunter trainee accompanied by a Wudwud named Bangard. Nona seemingly followed Alma’s footsteps by studying monsters and the ecosystems. Meanwhile Maki appears to be responsible for Azuz’s forge. At this rate, we might need to give our Hunters a few grey hairs before booting up Monster Hunter Wilds: Ascendance next year.

Lastly, the Monster Hunter Wilds: Ascendance State of Play trailer offered another look at the new Boost Bracer and weapon-specific Boosted Actions. Capcom has already showcased Great Sword and Bow gameplay, with other weapons planned for each following day. The announcements will culminate at Tokyo Game Show 2026, which runs from September 17–21, 2026. Those visiting (and who applied for the demo queue) will get to hunt Araketa with the new Boost mechanics.