Monster Hunter Rise: Voice Chat On Switch Made Easy

Hey guys! So you're diving into the awesome world of Monster Hunter Rise on your Nintendo Switch and want to coordinate with your hunting party? Voice chat is key for taking down those massive monsters, but setting it up can be a little confusing. Don't worry; I'm here to guide you through the process step-by-step so you can chat with your friends and conquer the hunt!

Understanding Voice Chat Options in Monster Hunter Rise

Before we jump into the how-to, let's talk about the voice chat landscape in Monster Hunter Rise on the Switch. Unlike some other online games, Monster Hunter Rise doesn't have built-in voice chat functionality within the game itself. This means you can't just plug in a headset and start talking directly through the game. Instead, you'll need to use external methods to communicate with your fellow hunters. This might seem like a bummer at first, but there are actually a few solid options available, each with its own pros and cons.

The Nintendo Switch Online App: A Mobile Solution

The primary method Nintendo recommends for voice chat on the Switch is the Nintendo Switch Online app on your smartphone. This app allows you to create or join voice chat lobbies with friends, which you can then use while playing Monster Hunter Rise. It's a decent option if you already have the app and a compatible headset, but it does require using your phone alongside your Switch, which can be a bit clunky for some. The app integrates with your Nintendo account and allows you to invite friends directly from your Switch friend list. The voice quality is generally good, but it relies on your phone's internet connection, so make sure you have a stable Wi-Fi or data connection for the best experience. One downside is that the app needs to be actively running in the foreground on your phone, which can drain your battery if you're on a long hunting session. Also, managing game audio and voice chat audio separately on your phone and Switch might require some juggling to get the balance just right. Despite these minor inconveniences, the Nintendo Switch Online app remains a viable option, especially if you're already using it for other Switch games.

Discord: A Versatile Alternative

Another popular option, and one that many players prefer, is using Discord. Discord is a free communication platform that's widely used by gamers. It offers voice and text chat, making it perfect for coordinating hunts with your friends. The great thing about Discord is its flexibility. You can use it on your computer, phone, or even through a web browser. This means you don't necessarily need to use your phone alongside your Switch if you have another device handy. Setting up a Discord server for your hunting group is easy, and you can create different voice channels for different hunts or groups of players. Discord also offers excellent voice quality and a range of features like screen sharing and customizable bots. Many Monster Hunter Rise communities have their own Discord servers, which can be a great way to find new hunting partners and share tips and strategies. Using Discord might require a bit more setup initially compared to the Nintendo Switch Online app, but the added features and flexibility often make it the preferred choice for serious hunters. Plus, Discord's cross-platform compatibility means you can chat with friends who are playing on different platforms, which is a huge bonus.

In-Game Communication: Stickers and Quick Chat

While Monster Hunter Rise doesn't have direct voice chat, it does offer some built-in communication tools. You can use stickers and quick chat messages to communicate with other players in-game. These options are great for basic communication, like calling out monster locations or coordinating attacks. However, they're not ideal for complex strategies or real-time coordination. Stickers are fun and expressive, but they can't convey detailed information. Quick chat messages are more informative, but typing them out can be slow and cumbersome, especially in the heat of battle. These in-game communication tools are a good supplement to voice chat, but they're not a replacement for it. Think of them as a way to communicate simple commands and reactions, while relying on voice chat for more strategic discussions. For example, you can use a sticker to signal that you're going to set a trap, and then use voice chat to coordinate the timing with your teammates. Combining these in-game tools with voice chat is the best way to ensure clear and effective communication during hunts.

Step-by-Step Guide to Voice Chat Using the Nintendo Switch Online App

Okay, let's dive into the nitty-gritty of setting up voice chat using the Nintendo Switch Online app. This is Nintendo's official method, so it's a good starting point. Here's what you need to do:

1. Download the Nintendo Switch Online App: First things first, you'll need to download the Nintendo Switch Online app from the App Store (for iOS devices) or the Google Play Store (for Android devices). It's a free download, but you'll need a Nintendo Switch Online subscription to use the voice chat features. If you don't have a subscription, you can sign up for a free trial or purchase a membership through the Nintendo eShop.
2. Link Your Nintendo Account: Once you've downloaded the app, launch it and sign in with the same Nintendo Account you use on your Switch. This is crucial because the app uses your account to connect with your friends on the Switch. If you have multiple Nintendo Accounts, make sure you're signing in with the correct one. The app will guide you through the process of linking your account, which usually involves entering your login credentials and verifying your identity.
3. Start or Join a Voice Chat Lobby: In the app, navigate to the Monster Hunter Rise section. You'll see an option to either start a voice chat lobby or join an existing one. If you're the host, you'll create a lobby and invite your friends. If you're joining a friend's lobby, they'll send you an invitation through the app. Make sure you and your friends have each other added on your Nintendo Switch friend list, as this makes inviting and joining lobbies much easier. The app will display a list of your online friends who are also playing Monster Hunter Rise, making it simple to send invitations.
4. Start the Game on Your Switch: With the voice chat lobby set up in the app, launch Monster Hunter Rise on your Nintendo Switch. The app will remain active in the background, allowing you to chat with your friends while you play. It's important to note that the app needs to be running in the foreground on your phone, so don't close it or switch to another app. If you do, you'll disconnect from the voice chat. The game will detect that you're in a voice chat lobby and automatically connect you to your friends.
5. Configure Your Audio: You might need to adjust your audio settings on both your phone and your Switch to get the best experience. Make sure your phone's volume is turned up, and that you've selected the correct audio output device (e.g., headphones or speakers). On your Switch, you can adjust the game volume in the system settings. Finding the right balance between game audio and voice chat audio might take some experimentation, so don't be afraid to tweak the settings until you're comfortable. A good starting point is to lower the game volume slightly so that you can clearly hear your friends talking.

Setting Up Discord for Monster Hunter Rise Voice Chat

Now, let's explore how to use Discord for voice chat in Monster Hunter Rise. As I mentioned earlier, Discord is a popular and versatile option, offering excellent voice quality and a range of features. Here's how to get it set up:

1. Download and Install Discord: If you don't already have Discord, download it from the Discord website or your device's app store. Discord is available for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android, so you can use it on virtually any device. Once you've downloaded the installer, run it and follow the on-screen instructions to install Discord. The installation process is straightforward and usually takes just a few minutes.
2. Create an Account or Log In: Launch Discord and either create a new account or log in with your existing credentials. If you're new to Discord, the signup process is quick and easy, requiring just an email address, a username, and a password. If you already have a Discord account, simply enter your email and password to log in. Discord also supports two-factor authentication for added security, which is a good idea to enable if you're serious about using the platform.
3. Create or Join a Server: To use Discord for voice chat, you'll need to either create your own server or join an existing one. A server is essentially a virtual space where you and your friends can communicate. If you're planning to hunt with a regular group of friends, creating your own server is a good idea. To create a server, click the plus (+) icon on the left-hand side of the Discord window and follow the prompts. You'll be able to name your server, choose a region, and customize its settings. If you're joining an existing server, you'll need an invitation link from the server owner or an administrator. Many Monster Hunter Rise communities have their own Discord servers, which you can find by searching online.
4. Create Voice Channels: Once you're in a server, you'll need to create a voice channel. Voice channels are specific channels within the server dedicated to voice communication. To create a voice channel, click the plus (+) icon next to "Voice Channels" in the server's channel list. You'll be able to name the channel and set permissions, such as who can join and speak in the channel. It's a good idea to create multiple voice channels for different hunting groups or activities. For example, you might have a channel for general chat, a channel for specific hunts, and a channel for strategy discussions.
5. Connect to a Voice Channel: To join a voice channel, simply click on its name in the channel list. Once you're connected, you'll be able to hear and speak to other members in the channel. Discord offers a range of audio settings that you can adjust to optimize your voice chat experience. You can adjust your input and output devices, set your microphone sensitivity, and enable features like noise suppression and echo cancellation. Experiment with these settings to find what works best for you. Discord also supports push-to-talk functionality, which allows you to mute your microphone by default and only speak when you press a designated key. This can be useful for reducing background noise and keeping the voice channel clear.

Tips for Clear Communication During Hunts

Now that you know how to set up voice chat, let's talk about some tips for effective communication during hunts. Clear communication is essential for success in Monster Hunter Rise, especially when facing challenging monsters. Here are some key things to keep in mind:

• Use Clear and Concise Language: When communicating during hunts, it's important to be clear and concise. Avoid using jargon or overly complex language that might confuse your teammates. Use simple, direct language to convey your message effectively. For example, instead of saying "I'm going to try to inflict a status ailment on the monster," you could say "I'm going to try to poison it." The goal is to communicate your intentions and actions as clearly and quickly as possible.
• Call Out Monster Actions and Locations: One of the most important things you can do during a hunt is to call out monster actions and locations. If the monster is about to use a powerful attack, warn your teammates so they can dodge or block. If the monster moves to a new area, let your teammates know so they can follow. Providing real-time information about the monster's behavior and whereabouts is crucial for coordinating your attacks and avoiding danger. Use specific and descriptive language when calling out monster actions. For example, instead of saying "It's doing something," you could say "It's charging up its fire breath attack."
• Coordinate Attacks and Strategies: Voice chat is perfect for coordinating attacks and strategies. Discuss your plan of attack with your teammates before the hunt begins, and adjust your strategy as needed during the hunt. Coordinate your weapon choices and attack patterns to maximize your damage output. For example, if one teammate is using a weapon that inflicts paralysis, another teammate can focus on dealing extra damage while the monster is paralyzed. Voice chat also allows you to quickly adapt to unexpected situations. If the monster changes its behavior or a new threat emerges, you can discuss your options and come up with a new plan on the fly.
• Be Respectful and Positive: Finally, it's important to be respectful and positive when communicating with your teammates. Hunting can be challenging, and frustration can sometimes run high. However, maintaining a positive attitude and treating your teammates with respect is essential for a successful and enjoyable hunting experience. Avoid blaming or criticizing your teammates, and instead focus on working together to overcome the challenges. Offer encouragement and support, and celebrate your victories together. A positive and supportive team environment will make hunts more fun and productive for everyone.

Conclusion

So there you have it! Voice chat in Monster Hunter Rise on the Switch might require a little extra setup, but it's definitely worth it for the improved communication and coordination it provides. Whether you choose the Nintendo Switch Online app or Discord, you'll be able to chat with your friends and take down those fearsome monsters with ease. Now get out there and happy hunting, guys!