Hunting simulation games often struggle to strike the perfect balance between realism and entertainment. However, TheHunter: Call of the Wild by Expansive Worlds has consistently delivered an immersive hunting experience, and its latest DLC, Rancho del Arroyo, further cements its place as one of the best hunting simulators available.
Exploring the Arid Beauty of Rancho del Arroyo
Set in the rugged landscapes of the American Southwest, Rancho del Arroyo introduces players to a vast, sun-scorched terrain filled with mesas, dry riverbeds, and dense shrublands. Unlike the lush forests of previous reserves like Hirschfelden or Layton Lake, this environment challenges hunters with open sightlines, limited cover, and noisy terrain that makes stalking prey more difficult.
The visual and audio design in this DLC is exceptional. The golden hues of the desert, dynamic weather changes, and ambient sounds—like the rustling of dry grass or distant animal calls—create an authentic and immersive hunting atmosphere.
Gameplay Mechanics: Realism Meets Accessibility
One of the standout features of theHunter: Call of the Wild is its realistic yet approachable gameplay. The ballistics system requires players to account for bullet drop, wind resistance, and shot placement. Unlike arcade-style hunting games, a poorly placed shot may only wound an animal, forcing you to track it via blood trails and disturbed foliage.
The animal AI in Rancho del Arroyo is impressively dynamic. Species like Coues deer, collared peccaries, and Rio Grande turkeys exhibit natural behaviors—drinking at waterholes, feeding in open fields, and fleeing at the slightest unnatural noise. Using calls and scent eliminators becomes crucial, especially since the arid terrain makes stealth harder.
However, some minor AI quirks persist. Occasionally, animals may get stuck on terrain or behave unpredictably, breaking immersion. While not game-breaking, these moments can disrupt an otherwise flawless hunting experience.
Progression & Customization: Gear, Skills, and Challenges
The DLC integrates seamlessly with the base game’s progression system. Players earn XP and in-game currency by completing missions, discovering landmarks, and successfully harvesting animals. These rewards unlock new weapons, gear, and skill upgrades, allowing for deeper customization of playstyle.
Rancho del Arroyo’s mission structure is slightly lighter compared to other reserves, focusing more on free exploration and dynamic hunting scenarios. While some may miss structured questlines, the reserve’s vastness encourages organic gameplay, rewarding patience and strategic hunting.
DLC Content & Value: Is It Worth It?
With 21 DLCs available, theHunter: Call of the Wild can feel overwhelming for newcomers. However, Rancho del Arroyo stands out as a must-have for fans of desert hunting. The unique environment, new species, and challenging conditions offer fresh gameplay dynamics not found in other reserves.
That said, the sheer amount of paid DLC may deter some players. While the base game provides plenty of content, those seeking a complete experience may find the cost adds up quickly.
Final Verdict: One of the Best Hunting Sims Gets Better
Rancho del Arroyo is a fantastic addition to theHunter: Call of the Wild, offering a visually stunning, mechanically deep, and challenging hunting experience. While minor AI issues and the game’s DLC-heavy model are drawbacks, the overall package remains one of the most realistic and enjoyable hunting simulators on the market.
For hunting enthusiasts or open-world exploration fans, this DLC is a worthy investment. Whether you’re tracking a elusive cougar through rocky outcrops or patiently waiting for turkeys at a watering hole, Rancho del Arroyo delivers hours of immersive gameplay.
Where to Buy & Play
theHunter: Call of the Wild is available on:
- PC (Steam)
- PlayStation 4/5
- Xbox One & Series X|S
The Rancho del Arroyo DLC is now live across all platforms.
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