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Since its debut, the Monster Hunter franchise has become a gaming legend, boasting over 73 million copies sold worldwide. Despite its success, the series has been criticized for its lack of compelling storylines. Monster Hunter Stories, a spin-off series, aims to address this by providing narrative depth to the Monster Hunter universe. Does Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin succeed in this mission, offering a compelling RPG experience? Let’s dive in and find out.

alt text describing a Rathalos, the flagship monster, soaring through the air with vibrant colors and a cel-shaded art style.

Accessible Gameplay for Everyone

While the mainline Monster Hunter games are known for their demanding combat and steep learning curve, Monster Hunter Stories 2 offers a more approachable experience. Instead of mastering complex combos and precise timings, players engage in turn-based combat, making it accessible to a wider audience. Gone are the frantic hunts and near-death experiences; Stories 2 allows players to relax and enjoy a more strategic approach.

alt text describing a screenshot of the game showing the character riding a monster with a colorful landscape in the background.

The game also boasts a vibrant cel-shaded art style, which is a departure from the more realistic visuals of the main series. This stylistic choice contributes to a lighter tone and lower system requirements, allowing players with less powerful hardware to enjoy the game’s visuals.

Despite the shift to turn-based combat, Stories 2 retains a surprising amount of depth. Each weapon type boasts unique skills and abilities, from the Hunting Horn’s buffs to the Bow’s status effects. Players can switch weapons and monsters mid-battle, allowing for dynamic and adaptable strategies. The rock-paper-scissors combat triangle of Power, Speed, and Technique adds another layer of strategy.

A Relaxing and Rewarding Experience

Monster Hunter Stories 2 excels at onboarding new players. The streamlined interface, clear tutorials, and engaging narrative make it easy to jump into the world of monster riding. Unlike the main games, players aren’t constantly pressured to hunt; exploration, gathering, and crafting are equally important aspects of the gameplay loop.

alt text describing the player character interacting with a colorful cast of NPCs in a vibrant village.

A key feature of Stories 2 is the ability to befriend and ride monsters. By collecting eggs from monster dens, players can hatch and raise their own companions. Each monster has unique abilities, both in and out of combat, adding variety and strategic options to exploration and battles. This monster-raising aspect provides a rewarding loop of collecting, training, and battling.

A Visually Stunning World

Monster Hunter Stories 2 offers a visually captivating experience. The vibrant environments, from lush grasslands to towering mountains, are a joy to explore. The ability to ride monsters further enhances the sense of freedom and adventure. The game’s beautiful landscapes are a constant reminder of the rich and diverse world of Monster Hunter.

alt text showing the player character riding a monster across a vast, scenic landscape with detailed environmental elements.

The story revolves around the disappearance of Rathalos, the iconic fire-breathing wyverns, who have suddenly vanished after a period of unexplained aggression. As a Rider, players embark on a journey to uncover the truth behind the Rathalos’ disappearance and restore balance to the world.

Lack of Challenge

While Monster Hunter Stories 2 offers engaging gameplay and a compelling story, the relatively low difficulty can become a drawback. The rock-paper-scissors combat system, while initially engaging, can become predictable, making battles feel less challenging as the game progresses. The abundance of resources and easy access to healing items further diminishes the sense of challenge.

alt text showing a battle scene with the player character's monster facing off against an enemy monster in a turn-based combat system.

Conclusion

Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin is a charming and accessible RPG that successfully expands the Monster Hunter universe with a compelling narrative and engaging gameplay. While the lack of challenge may deter some players, the game’s vibrant world, charming characters, and rewarding monster-raising mechanics offer a delightful experience for fans and newcomers alike. The game is a great entry point for those intimidated by the main series’ complexity and a welcome change of pace for veteran hunters seeking a more relaxed adventure.