theHunter: Call of the Wild - Vurhonga Savanna is a hunting simulation game set on a large African reserve. Players take on the role of a warden tasked with protecting the area from poachers while hunting a variety of wildlife across scrublands, riverlands, swamps, and open savanna. The reserve spans 25 square miles and features detailed environments including the Fever Tree Forest and the Tree of Life. It serves as an expansion to the core game, adding new animals, missions, and a signature rifle.
Gameplay
Core gameplay revolves around realistic hunting mechanics in a vast open world. Players track animals using visual cues, calls, and environmental signs before making careful shots with appropriate weapons. Shot placement matters greatly, as dense muscle on larger species like the Cape Buffalo requires precise aiming for effective penetration. The new KING 470DB double rifle delivers powerful performance with the 470 Nitro Express caliber, offering strong penetration and damage. It supports iron sights or a reflex sight and includes a multileaf sight for adjusting zero distance. As warden, players also handle tasks related to reserve management, such as addressing threats from poachers and maintaining stability for native species. The environment supports natural animal behaviors, including herd movements of Blue Wildebeest and the reintroduction of lions, which demand caution due to their territorial nature.
Game Modes
Players can explore the reserve freely in singleplayer, discovering landmarks and wildlife at their own pace. Structured play comes through narrative missions that advance a story involving the player's grandfather, Njabulo Tshabangu, along with side missions and dedicated warden missions. These total 16 narrative missions, 32 side missions, and 14 warden missions. Multiplayer supports both competitive and cooperative sessions, where owners of the reserve can host games that non-owners join at no extra cost. All participants gain access to new clothing options purchasable with in-game currency regardless of DLC ownership.
Animals and Environment
Vurhonga Savanna hosts a diverse set of species suited to its African setting. Common sightings include Blue Wildebeest herds, Lesser Kudu, Springbok, Scrub Hare, Warthog, and Side-Striped Jackal. The Cape Buffalo presents a significant challenge due to its size and aggression. Lions appear as the largest carnivore reintroduced to the reserve, adding tension to hunts in prime territory. The landscape varies from lush riverlands and murky swamps to drier scrub and savanna plains, providing different hunting conditions and scenic variety throughout the day and night cycles.
Is It Worth Playing?
This DLC appeals most to players who enjoy methodical, realistic hunting simulations with strong emphasis on animal behavior and environmental detail. The story missions provide guided progression while free exploration rewards patient observation. Multiplayer options extend the experience for those who prefer shared sessions. Reception has been mixed, with praise for the visual quality of the reserve and animal variety but some criticism regarding certain mechanics. It suits fans of the base game looking for a new setting and weapon, particularly those interested in African wildlife and warden-style objectives. Availability through the main title makes it accessible without additional barriers beyond the purchase.
