Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate is scheduled for release in Australia and New Zealand in early 2015, Capcom and Nintendo confirmed today.

In the licensing agreement that was settled over the title, Nintendo will be responsible for the sales, marketing, PR and distribution of the game, while retaining Capcom as the publisher. Players will be able to connect with three friends for multiplayer via local wireless or online using the Nintendo Network.

Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate adds two new weapon classes to the series, new monsters and locales to explore, with an emphasis on providing more vertical and lateral exploration than in previous titles. Hunters can climb up vast cliffs and perform jump attacks from walls or ledges, and they'll even be able to temporarily ride on top of monsters as they cling to the beast and deliver blows.

The game will be compatible with both Nintendo 3DS and 2DS systems. We'll have more coverage on the game as it draws closer to release in Western regions.