Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings Of Ruin - A Deep Dive

Hey guys! Let's dive deep into the fascinating world of Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin! This game isn't just another entry in the Monster Hunter franchise; it’s a vibrant, story-rich adventure that takes you on a journey unlike any other. Forget the relentless monster hunts of the main series – here, you're raising monsters, building bonds, and unraveling a captivating mystery. So, grab your gear, and let's explore what makes this game so special.

What is Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin?

Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin is a turn-based RPG set in the Monster Hunter universe. Instead of being a hunter who slays monsters, you play as a Rider, a character who forms bonds with monsters (called Monsties) and battles alongside them. The game combines elements of monster collecting, strategic combat, and a compelling narrative. You'll explore diverse environments, hatch eggs to discover new Monsties, and team up with them to take on challenging quests. The core gameplay loop involves exploring, battling, collecting, and upgrading, offering a deeply engaging experience for both newcomers and veterans of the Monster Hunter series. What sets it apart is the focus on the relationship between Riders and Monsties, creating a unique and heartwarming dynamic that adds emotional depth to the gameplay. Think of it as Pokémon meets Monster Hunter, with a dash of epic fantasy adventure thrown in for good measure.

Story and Setting

The narrative of Monster Hunter Stories 2 is truly captivating. You play as the grandchild of a legendary Rider named Red, entrusted with a mysterious Rathalos egg. This isn't just any egg; it holds the key to a prophecy foretelling the ruinous wings that could plunge the world into chaos. As you journey through the game, you'll uncover the truth behind this prophecy and strive to prevent the impending disaster. The setting is a vibrant and diverse world filled with lush forests, scorching deserts, and icy mountains, each teeming with unique monsters and resources. The game's environments are beautifully rendered, creating a sense of immersion and wonder as you explore every nook and cranny. Along the way, you'll encounter a colorful cast of characters, each with their own motivations and backstories, adding depth and richness to the narrative. From wise old villagers to determined hunters, these characters will aid you on your quest, providing valuable insights and assistance. The storyline is filled with twists and turns, keeping you on the edge of your seat as you unravel the mysteries surrounding the ruinous wings and the fate of the world. It’s a tale of friendship, courage, and the bonds between humans and monsters, making it a truly memorable experience.

Gameplay Mechanics

The gameplay of Monster Hunter Stories 2 is a delightful blend of exploration, turn-based combat, and monster collecting. Let's break it down:

Exploration

The world is your playground! You'll traverse vast landscapes, discover hidden areas, and gather resources. Your Monstie companions play a crucial role here, as each one possesses unique field skills that help you overcome obstacles and access new areas. For example, some Monsties can swim across rivers, while others can climb steep cliffs. The exploration is seamless and rewarding, encouraging you to venture off the beaten path and uncover secrets. You'll find treasure chests, gathering points, and even monster dens where you can collect eggs to hatch new Monsties. The sense of discovery is ever-present, making every journey feel like an adventure.

Combat System

The combat system is a strategic turn-based affair. You and your Monstie will face off against various monsters in battle. The core of the combat revolves around a rock-paper-scissors system: Power attacks beat Technical attacks, Technical attacks beat Speed attacks, and Speed attacks beat Power attacks. Understanding your enemy's attack patterns and choosing the right attack type is crucial for victory. Additionally, you can form Kinship bonds with your Monstie during battle, allowing you to unleash devastating Kinship Skills. These skills are not only powerful but also visually stunning, adding a cinematic flair to the combat. The combat system is easy to learn but difficult to master, providing a satisfying challenge for both casual and hardcore players.

Monstie Collection and Customization

One of the most addictive aspects of Monster Hunter Stories 2 is collecting and raising Monsties. You'll find monster dens scattered throughout the world, where you can collect eggs. Each egg contains a random Monstie, adding an element of surprise and excitement to the process. Once you hatch a Monstie, you can train and customize it to suit your playstyle. You can use Gene Channeling to transfer genes from one Monstie to another, allowing you to create powerful and unique combinations of skills and abilities. This level of customization adds depth and replayability to the game, as you can experiment with different Monstie builds and strategies. Whether you prefer a powerhouse Monstie that deals massive damage or a support Monstie that provides healing and buffs, the possibilities are endless.

Graphics and Sound

Monster Hunter Stories 2 is a visual treat. The game features a vibrant and colorful art style that brings the world to life. The character models are detailed and expressive, and the environments are lush and immersive. The animations are smooth and fluid, making the combat and exploration feel incredibly satisfying. The game's performance is also top-notch, with consistent frame rates and minimal loading times. The sound design is equally impressive, with a sweeping orchestral score that perfectly complements the game's epic scope. The monster roars and battle sound effects are impactful and immersive, adding to the overall sense of excitement. The voice acting is also well-done, with each character bringing their own personality and charm to the story. Overall, the graphics and sound of Monster Hunter Stories 2 are a testament to the game's high production values, creating a truly immersive and enjoyable experience.

Multiplayer and Post-Game Content

Monster Hunter Stories 2 offers a robust multiplayer mode that allows you to team up with friends and tackle challenging quests together. You can participate in co-op expeditions, battle against other players in versus mode, or simply explore the world together. The multiplayer mode adds a social element to the game, allowing you to share your experiences and strategies with others. Additionally, the game features a wealth of post-game content, including new quests, challenging monsters, and additional story chapters. This ensures that there's always something new to do, even after you've completed the main storyline. Whether you're hunting for rare monsters, completing challenging quests, or simply exploring the world with friends, the multiplayer and post-game content of Monster Hunter Stories 2 will keep you entertained for hours on end.

Why You Should Play Monster Hunter Stories 2

So, why should you dive into Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin? Here's the lowdown:

• Unique Gameplay: It's a fresh take on the Monster Hunter formula, focusing on monster raising and turn-based combat.
• Engaging Story: The narrative is captivating, filled with memorable characters and epic moments.
• Beautiful World: The game's environments are stunning, inviting you to explore every corner.
• Deep Customization: The Monstie collection and Gene Channeling systems offer endless possibilities for customization.
• Multiplayer Fun: Team up with friends for co-op quests and battles.

Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin is a must-play for fans of RPGs, monster collecting games, and the Monster Hunter series. It's a heartwarming adventure that will stay with you long after the credits roll.

Final Thoughts

Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin is a gem in the Monster Hunter franchise. It's a game that successfully blends elements of monster collecting, strategic combat, and a compelling narrative into a cohesive and enjoyable experience. Whether you're a longtime fan of the series or a newcomer looking for a fresh adventure, this game has something to offer. So, grab your Nintendo Switch or PC, saddle up your Monstie, and embark on an unforgettable journey. You won't be disappointed!