As someone, who has never found much interest in the Monster Hunter Series, I was happy to jump into this new game. Monster Hunter Stories introduces a new side to this world that has been in hiding in a way, and helps change things up. This game, the game follows a young rider, someone who tames monsters rather than strictly hunting them, which makes this game more akin to a Pokemon game, and therefore right up my my alley.
The story revolves around the hero traveling the world to snuff out an ancient evil that is rearing its ugly head. A plant that can cause monsters to rampage is back and warping the world and needs to be stopped. Along the way, many interesting things happen and you will meet a good bunch of insane characters. For me, it is really good that there is actually a story, as from what I know, monster hunter games are usually devoid of such a thing.
In Monster Hunter Stories you assemble a team of monsters or Monsties as they are called. There are about 200 to choose from so you have quite a good group to gather, that of course have their own skills, and abilities that long time fans should know at least. To gather monsters you must steal eggs, and the only way you can do so is to head into nests. These nests are randomly generated so the only thing you will really know is what kind of monsters you might fight.
Sneaking in, you often come across a monster, who if you wake up or you scared back its nest will be angry. Anger is a great power up for monsters, as why would they not be upset that some small human can actually defeat them? After this, you get to pick up eggs, and Navirou, your Felyne pal, will tell you a few hints about your egg. It is quite fun, as there are many patterns, and you don’t always know what kind of monster you will get. The fighting system is based on a sort of Rock Paper Scissors game, though you do need to figure out patterns, as if you successfully do, you will inflict more damage. There are special attacks and even combo attacks, the latter done through riding your monster in battle, that are amazing.
Monster Hunter Stories truly is a game unlike any Monster Hunter game before it. A true RPG, where the world is your oyster. With so many quests to complete, weapons to buy, and monsters to hatch, you won’t be putting this game down anytime soon. Plus, it really is a good first monster hunter game. Playing this will allow anyone to jump in and get a taste for what the true games are. But, this game also has all the intricacy of that game, albeit in a far more cartoonish form.
Monster Hunter Stories is certainly a game, that I am enjoying and I cannot wait to see how it ends. You can get Monster Hunter Stories right now on the 3DS Family of Systems!