Monster Hunter Stories 2: Decoding Egg Smells & Finding Rare Monsties

by Jhon Lennon 70 views

Hey there, fellow Monster Hunter Stories 2 enthusiasts! Ever found yourself staring at an egg in your inventory, sniffing it virtually, and wondering, "What does this smell like? And what Monstie will hatch from it?" Well, you're not alone! The egg smell mechanic in Monster Hunter Stories 2 is a super important clue to help you find those awesome, rare Monsties that will become your lifelong companions in battle. This guide is your key to unlocking the secrets behind those egg smells and boosting your chances of finding the perfect Monstie.

Understanding Egg Smells: Your First Step to Monstie Mastery

Let's be real, the egg smell mechanic can seem a little vague at first. It’s like, what exactly does a “sweet” or “metallic” smell mean? That's what we're going to break down for you. The egg smells aren’t just flavor text, they're like a treasure map to the specific Monstie types you're looking for. Paying close attention to these smells is crucial. Ignoring them is like going into a Rathalos den without any healing potions – you're probably gonna have a bad time. The game provides a range of smells, and each one is associated with a specific element and, more importantly, a general group of Monsties. For example, a “spicy” smell usually points to fire-based Monsties, while a “fresh” smell often indicates water-based creatures. Getting familiar with these relationships is the first step toward becoming a master egg hunter. It is important to remember that not all Monsties are equal. Some have better stats, unique skills, and rare genes that make them highly sought after. Finding these Monsties is often a matter of skill, but also of knowing where to look and what to smell.

So, before you even think about hatching an egg, open up that inventory and give it a sniff! The descriptions in the game, while sometimes brief, give you a good idea. Take notes, make mental associations, and you'll be on your way to quickly identifying the type of Monstie that could hatch. Remember, the rarer the Monstie, the more challenging it is to find the right egg. It is a grind, but the rewards are well worth it. There’s nothing more satisfying than finally getting that rare Monstie you’ve been after.

Now, how do you actually find the eggs? You’ll be exploring Monster Dens, both the common and the rare ones. Rare Dens have a higher chance of containing rarer eggs, so keep an eye out for them. They're often marked on your map with a special icon and may require specific items or quests to unlock. Make sure you explore every nook and cranny. Keep in mind that egg color also helps, but we'll dive deeper into that later.

Finally, don't be afraid to experiment. Collect a bunch of eggs with different smells, hatch them, and see what you get. Eventually, you’ll start to recognize the patterns and develop a gut feeling for what each smell means. This will become an essential skill as you progress through the game and face tougher challenges.

Decoding Egg Smells: A Smell-by-Smell Breakdown

Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty! Let's decode those egg smells so you're not left guessing what's inside. Here's a breakdown of the common egg smells you'll encounter in Monster Hunter Stories 2, and what they typically indicate. Remember, the smells are clues, not guarantees, but this guide will give you a major advantage in your egg hunting journey.

  • Sweet Smell: This often indicates that the egg might contain a Dragon or a Thunder element Monstie. These can be some of the most versatile in the game, as they often have great attack stats and a variety of skills. Examples include Kushala Daora or Zinogre, both are very powerful Monsties that you'll want on your team. So next time you see a sweet smell, get hyped! You're likely to find something amazing.
  • Spicy Smell: As we mentioned before, spicy usually means Fire element. Look for the likes of the Rathalos or the Anjanath. These Monsties bring serious heat to the battlefield and can be invaluable in certain situations. They can also look really cool, which is always a plus. Pay close attention to this smell. Fire Monsties tend to be great attackers. You need a few of these in your arsenal.
  • Fresh Smell: Water-based Monsties often give off a fresh smell. Consider this your cue to possibly find a Royal Ludroth or a Lagiacrus. Water attacks can be critical in overcoming some elemental matchups. Plus, these Monsties often have great defensive stats, making them great at soaking up damage.
  • Metallic Smell: This points towards Technical or Dragon element Monsties. This could mean a Nergigante or other strong monster with a high attack stat. If you enjoy a powerful fighter, keep an eye out for this scent. The metallic smell is also associated with some of the more brutal Monsties in the game, so get ready to rumble.
  • Earthy Smell: Often associated with Status or Neutral element Monsties. This might indicate an Aptonoth or Congalala. While these might not be the most flashy Monsties, they can be super useful, and often have skills that debuff opponents or provide support to your team.
  • Mysterious Smell: The game throws you a curveball with these. They may indicate a wide range of elements, often including Elder Dragons. This is your chance for a really rare Monstie. Be prepared to potentially battle through some tough challenges and keep your fingers crossed for a truly legendary companion.

Keep in mind that these are general guidelines. There can always be exceptions, and certain Monsties might have a slightly different smell than you expect. But, by becoming familiar with these common associations, you’ll become much more efficient at predicting what might hatch from your eggs.

Beyond the Smell: Egg Colors and Patterns

So, you've sniffed the egg and have a general idea of the element and type of Monstie. Now, let’s dig a bit deeper. Egg colors and patterns also play a critical role in determining the rarity and potential of your future Monstie. They're not just for show; they're like a visual roadmap of what to expect when the egg hatches. The combination of smell, color, and pattern can help you increase your chances of finding those elusive, high-stat Monsties that can give you a real edge in combat. Let’s explore what these visual clues mean.

  • Egg Colors:

    • Common Colors: These usually indicate a common Monstie, but don't count them out! They can still be incredibly useful, especially early in the game. You'll find a wide variety of Monsties with these colors, so it's a great opportunity to experiment and learn about different playstyles.
    • Uncommon Colors: A step up from the common eggs. These often signal a higher chance of a more powerful Monstie with better stats and skills. These are definitely worth keeping and hatching.
    • Rare Colors: Prepare yourself! These eggs are a good sign of rare Monsties, possibly even Elder Dragons. If you see these, you'll want to take extra care when selecting your Monstie. It can take some time to find these, but the payoff can be huge.

  • Egg Patterns:

    • Basic Patterns: You'll find basic patterns on common eggs. They still have some interesting combinations, and a good Monstie may still hatch.
    • Distinct Patterns: These signify a good chance of getting a rarer Monstie with better stats and unique skills. Consider these as a sign that you could get a real gem. The more unique the pattern, the better.
    • Shining/Glimmering Patterns: Jackpot! These eggs often signal extremely rare Monsties with the best stats, unique skills, and powerful genes. Finding these eggs is one of the most exciting parts of the game. Get ready to have a new powerhouse on your team.

Combining the information from smells, colors, and patterns, you can make a calculated guess about what will hatch from your egg. Remember, the more information you gather, the better your chances of getting a Monstie that fits your playstyle.

Finding Rare Monster Dens: The Ultimate Egg Hunting Grounds

Now, let's talk about where to find the best eggs. While you can find eggs in any Monster Den, Rare Monster Dens are where you should focus your efforts if you're serious about finding powerful Monsties. They offer a higher chance of encountering rarer eggs, better rewards, and overall, a more rewarding egg-hunting experience. But, finding and exploring these dens isn't always easy. These are the tips and tricks to finding and using them effectively.

  • How to Identify Rare Dens: Rare Dens are marked on your map with a special icon. They often have a unique appearance, with a distinctive color or shape. They may also require specific items or quests to unlock. Make sure you check your map frequently and keep an eye out for these. If you are diligent, you will find these dens regularly.
  • Maximizing Your Chances: When you find a rare den, don’t just rush in. Make sure you have your best equipment and a well-balanced team. Explore the entire den carefully, making sure you don’t miss any eggs. The more eggs you collect, the better your chances of finding a rare Monstie. Consider bringing some egg-scouting skills to increase your odds.
  • Den Exploration Tips: Keep an eye out for any side paths or hidden areas in the dens. Sometimes, the best eggs are hidden away in secret chambers. Also, make sure you know your way around the den and learn the best routes. This will save you time and maximize your egg-collecting efficiency. Sometimes, the den layout will also determine the types of eggs available.
  • Using Egg-Sniffing Skills: Utilize skills that help you identify the type and rarity of eggs. Some of your Monsties have skills that give you information about the eggs in the den. Use these skills wisely to determine which eggs are worth collecting.

Rare Monster Dens are a vital part of your egg-hunting journey. They’re a significant investment, but the rewards are well worth it. By making the most of these dens, you'll greatly improve your chances of getting the best Monsties.

Hatching and Gene Splicing: Maximizing Your Monstie's Potential

So, you’ve collected some eggs, and now it's time for the final stage: hatching and gene splicing. This is where you bring your Monsties to life and unleash their true potential. It's more than just getting a cute companion; it's about crafting the ultimate team. Understanding how to hatch eggs and use gene splicing is critical to getting the most from your Monsties.

  • Hatching Your Eggs: Once you've found the right eggs, you'll need to head back to the stables to hatch them. Make sure you have enough stable space; otherwise, you may not be able to hatch the egg. Once hatched, take a good look at your new Monstie! See what skills it has, and what role it can play on your team. Hatching the eggs is the most fun part, but it's important to choose the right ones to hatch.
  • Gene Splicing Basics: Gene splicing allows you to transfer abilities from one Monstie to another. The genes determine what skills and abilities your Monstie has. This is where you can customize your Monsties and make them truly unique. Select the skills you want, and combine the best of the Monsties in your team. This can turn good Monsties into great ones.
  • Strategic Gene Splicing: Not all genes are created equal. Some are better than others. Genes with attack, defense, or support are the most useful. Consider the element, attack, and defensive style of the Monstie you want to enhance. Combine genes strategically to create the best Monsties for your team.
  • Experimentation is Key: Don’t be afraid to experiment with gene splicing. Try different combinations of genes and see what works best for your team. You may discover some unexpected combinations that make your Monsties even more powerful.

By following these tips, you'll be well on your way to maximizing your Monstie's potential. Hatching eggs and gene splicing may seem complex at first, but with a little practice, you'll be able to create some of the most powerful Monsties in the game!

Conclusion: Become the Ultimate Egg Hunter

So, there you have it, folks! The ultimate guide to understanding egg smells, colors, patterns, and everything else related to finding the best Monsties in Monster Hunter Stories 2. Remember, this is a game of patience, exploration, and a little bit of luck. The key to success is to pay attention to those smells, recognize those colors and patterns, and above all, have fun! There's a real joy in finally hatching that rare egg and watching your new Monstie grow into a true powerhouse. So, get out there, explore those Monster Dens, and start sniffing out those perfect eggs! Happy hunting, and may the odds be ever in your favor!

I hope this guide has helped you on your journey to becoming the ultimate egg hunter. Happy hunting, and may all your eggs hatch into legendary Monsties!