I have to explore the map with each playthrough or I will be hurting my character?

[VEEJ]

I like to go into NG+ and go straight to critical points until I get to the next NG+. If I do that in this game, will I be hurting my character? Is there no cap on the Hunt Points? Each point that is missed will forever be lost?

[Bellkatze]

In theory, yes, everything you skipped when entering a new cycle will be lost forever.
But if you aren't a completionist and your build is 'done', then the penalty of missing out on upgrades is negligible.
Speaking from personal experience, as I've more or less rushed to NG+11 and never felt underleveled.

[VEEJ]

I'm 97% map revealed and just need 6 more achievements that can only be gotten from NG+. I've been real hesitant on pulling the trigger, but I may do it today

[VEEJ]

Also, thanks for your input

[VEEJ]

We keep all of our abilities on NG+ -- YES!

All previous Hunt Points stay highlighted on the map too! So I don't have to try and remember where I did all those fights!

This is perfect!!