Capcom recently published an in-depth analysis of player behavior in Monster Hunter Wilds. Titled "The Forbidden Lands White Paper 1," this official Japanese report examines gameplay trends following the April 4 update, revealing hunters' distinct culinary preferences within the game.

The April update not only introduced new quests and monsters but also launched the Grand Hub – a social space where players can congregate. This hub features an innovative canteen system where Meal Vouchers can be exchanged for regional specialties from across The Forbidden Lands. These meals provide valuable combat buffs, offering players a convenient way to prepare for hunts without traveling to specific regions. Vouchers are obtainable through daily login bonuses or Arena quest rewards.

According to Automaton Japan's report, the White Paper disclosed fascinating statistics about regional meal popularity. Spring Kunafa Cuisine dominated with 87.8% of voucher usage, dwarfing other options: Fresh Sild Cuisine (8.2%), Colorful Suja Cuisine (3.5%), and Hot Azuz Cuisine (a mere 0.5%).

The report identifies a key factor in Spring Kunafa's popularity: players received five free vouchers for this cuisine with the April update. The Defender Meal (Hi) buff, which significantly reduces monster damage, likely contributed to its appeal during challenging hunts. However, the uneven initial voucher distribution means these numbers don't necessarily reflect genuine preferences.

More telling is the usage pattern of Pick-a-Meal Vouchers, which allow free choice among all cuisines. Here, player selections showed a complete reversal: Hot Azuz Cuisine led with 41.3%, followed by Colorful Suja Cuisine (28.3%), Spring Kunafa Cuisine (19%), and Fresh Sild Cuisine (12%).

The data suggests players prefer Azuz cuisine for its Tumbler Meal (Hi) buff, which enhances evasion – particularly valuable for bow users needing to fill their Trick Arrow Gauge. Colorful Suja's appeal lies in its offensive benefits, offering both random attack boosts and increased reward potential from monster wounds, all while treating players to an impressive sushi banquet scene.

While buffs undoubtedly influence meal choices, the community has found humor in Sild Cuisine's consistent unpopularity. Unlike other regions' lavish feasts, Sild's modest offerings of basic vegetables and unripe fruits in its ruined environment have earned an "unappetizing" reputation among players.

Capcom plans to release additional White Papers, potentially tracking evolving culinary trends. This food-focused analysis follows Monster Hunter Wilds' May 28 update, which notably added Street Fighter's Akuma – details about Version 1.011 are available here.