Lets do this. Im trying to decide which is better, and for what reasons.

But i also want to know what makes them so similar, and or different?

edit >> Please, if you haven't played MH at all, choose "Can't decide".

both have the sword exploring mechainc, but zelda is more explore adventure while mpnster hinter is open range hunter

I can't say which one is better because monster hunter isn't in my hands yet

but I'll assume zelda for critics

Zelda easily wins for me since I've only seen videos of MH so far. I plan to buy it eventually.

Pure Personal Taste. This is a choice between Steak and Atlantic Lobster. Outside both have monsters, swords and the standard traveling element there is nothing in the experience of this game that's the same.

Ultimatly it comes down to this for fantasy based game play.

Zelda tells an excellent adventure.
Monster Hunter is about kicking monster ass with friends.

Zelda is a dying game of a niche genre. Monster Hunter is a game built with a brighter future. Social gaming is on the growth. Zelda is an awesome game and everyone should enjoy it.

Best yet, people often get the Steak and Lobster meals often :)

Are you fucking serious? Is this even a contest? That's like asking if you prefer root canals over sex.

What's better, Pokemon or Harvest Moon?
Halo or Resident Evil 4?
Phoenix Wright or Max Payne?
Chrono Trigger or Heroes of Might and Magic?
...Obviously what I'm trying to say is that there isn't really a reason to compare the games. They're both 3d person, and you can use swords in both of them; that's about it.

The two games are really opposite points on one another. If someone were to combine them, it'd be endlessly compelling. Zelda has the creative and compelling world with interesting characters that Monster Hunter lacks in every way, while Monster Hunter has the depth of equipment, customization, and combat that Zelda's been missing.

The graphics in MH3 are really beautiful especially underwater (the best looking game on the Wii so far), I really can't wait to see how Zelda will look.

Monster Hunter is very complicated.

I can't decide.

Mostly because they're both completely different games with their own values, gameplay styles and appeal.