How to Pause the Game in Monster Hunter Wilds

Monster Hunter Wilds may have a few fights lasting half an hour or more. There are even scenarios where you think you can leave the game unattended because the monster is retreating, but it is recovering while you are on standby.

In times like these, the best way to deal with being forced to leave the game for a while is pausing the game. Luckily for players, pausing is possible, but with a few restrictions. Here’s a quick guide on how to pause the game in Monster Hunter Wilds.

Is There a Way to Pause the Game in Monster Hunter Wilds?

To pause the game in Monster Hunter Wilds, you must be in Online Single Player mode. The default mode for the game automatically goes to an online multiplayer mode where you can see as many as 100 players in the world or camps. You cannot pause the game in this state or mode.

To start the game in Online Single Player mode, select the “Online Single Player” option after loading the save file or starting a new game. When loading a game, you can create a private lobby, where you intend to invite friends to the group. However, you won’t be able to pause the game in this version as it is strictly for Online Single Player mode only.

Once you are in Online Single Player mode, the game lets you pause the game from the start menu. Even during this mode, you can use an SOS Flare to call in players, a “temporary” multiplayer mode. As soon as the hunt finishes, it reverts to Online Single Player mode, and you can pause the game.

Related: How to Claim Pre-Order Bonuses and Gifts in Monster Hunter Wilds

Can You Switch to Online Single Player While in the Game in Monster Hunter Wilds?

For those who don’t want to restart their save file or game to switch modes, you must go to your handler, Alma, and interact with her to open the Quest Counter window. Navigate through the options and look for the “Change Lobby Menu.”

You should see the “Online Single Player” option, which will be grayed out if you are currently in that mode. If not, you can select it to switch the mode while in the game.

In the same menu, you can also start private lobbies, find specific lobbies, or join a random lobby that is well-suited to your current progress or Hunter Rank. Alma is one of your best friends for these options, so make sure to remember her location.