Why Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate could already be the game of the year

The Japanese million-selling hunting game series has never cracked the western market, but the latest instalment will take your breath away

In Japan, they play Monster Hunter everywhere. You'll see groups of people in parks and cafes, or on packed commuter trains, handheld consoles clutched in their fists, battling creatures together.

This strange game series, a combination of role-playing adventure and hunting simulation has sold over 30m copies since the first title arrived on PlayStation 2 in 2004. Five years ago, it single-handedly saved Sony's PSP console, with 2010's Monster Hunter Portable 3rd shifting 5m copies. But somehow, it is yet to really crack the western market. The game can seem obtuse with its intricate combat systems and upgrade mechanics, and its multiplayer mode is based around fun and co-operation rather than the deathmatch-style competition we're used to in the West.