Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings Of Ruin Guide

Hey everyone! So, you're diving into the amazing world of Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin, huh? That's awesome! This game is an absolute blast, blending the thrilling monster-collecting RPG vibes with the epic scale of the Monster Hunter universe. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or totally new to the scene, Monster Hunter Stories 2 offers a deep and engaging experience that will keep you hooked for hours on end. We're going to break down some of the coolest aspects of this game, from getting started with your Monstie companions to mastering those epic battles. So grab your gear, because we're about to embark on an unforgettable adventure!

Your First Steps: Hatching and Bonding with Monsties

One of the most exciting parts of Monster Hunter Stories 2 is undoubtedly getting your hands on your very own Monsties. These aren't just pets; they're your loyal companions, fighting alongside you in turn-based combat and even helping you traverse the vast landscapes of the game world. When you start, you'll be introduced to Ena and the mysterious egg she's entrusted to you. Hatching this egg is your very first step into becoming a true Monstie Rider. The process involves finding Monster Eggs in monster dens scattered across the various regions. These dens can be a bit tricky to navigate, often filled with puzzles, environmental hazards, and of course, wild monsters. The key is to listen for the distinctive rumble of a den and then carefully explore its winding paths. Inside, you'll find monster eggs, each with a different smell and rarity. The smell is a crucial indicator of the egg's quality and the monster inside. A strong, distinct smell usually means a better chance of getting a rare monster with good genes. Once you find an egg, you'll need to carefully carry it back to your village to hatch it. The hatching process itself is pretty cool; you'll see the egg crack open, revealing your new Monstie! But it's not just about collecting; it's about bonding. The more you fight with a Monstie, the stronger your bond becomes, unlocking new abilities and making them more effective in battle. You can even perform a ritual called the Rite of Kinship, which allows you to gain new skills from your Monstie and pass them onto others, creating truly unique and powerful companions. Understanding the elemental types and combat styles of your Monsties is crucial for success. Each monster has an element (Fire, Water, Thunder, Ice, Dragon, Non-elemental) and a combat type (Power, Speed, Technical). These elements and types play a huge role in the game's rock-paper-scissors combat system, where Power beats Speed, Speed beats Technical, and Technical beats Power. Mastering these relationships will be your ticket to dominating every encounter, from small Felynes to colossal Elder Dragons. So, go forth, explore those dens, find those eggs, and build your ultimate team of Monsties!

Mastering Combat: The Rock-Paper-Scissors of Monster Hunter

Alright guys, let's talk about the heart of Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin – the combat system! It might look simple at first glance, but there's a surprising amount of depth here that separates the seasoned Riders from the rookies. The core mechanic is this awesome rock-paper-scissors system involving three attack types: Power, Speed, and Technical. Think of it like this: Power attacks beat Speed attacks, Speed attacks beat Technical attacks, and Technical attacks beat Power attacks. It sounds straightforward, but the real challenge comes from predicting your opponent's moves. Monsters and enemy Riders will telegraph their attacks. You'll see icons above their heads indicating their next move. Your job is to counter that move correctly. If you guess wrong, you'll take a hefty chunk of damage, and your opponent will gain momentum. But if you guess right? Chef's kiss! You'll deal bonus damage and often interrupt their attack. This is where understanding your own Monstie's strengths and your Rider's abilities comes into play. Each Monstie has a primary attack type, and you'll need to switch between them strategically based on what you anticipate from the enemy. Don't forget about the Double Attack! If you and your Monstie attack the same target with matching attack types, and neither of you is hit by a counter, you'll trigger a Double Attack, which is a powerful combo that deals massive damage and fills your Kinship Gauge faster. Speaking of the Kinship Gauge, this is super important. It fills up as you deal and take damage, and when it's full, you can unleash devastating Skill Attacks or, even better, perform a Monstie Fusion. This is where your Rider hops onto their Monstie for a super-powered assault. During a Monstie Fusion, you'll enter a head-to-head battle with the enemy, where you'll need to win a series of rock-paper-scissors exchanges to deal maximum damage. It's incredibly satisfying when you pull off a perfect Fusion! Beyond the basic attack types, there are also elemental weaknesses and resistances to consider. Every monster has specific elemental affinities, and exploiting these can turn the tide of battle. Using a Fire attack against a Water-type monster, for example, will deal significantly more damage. Keep an eye on those elemental icons and make sure your team is well-equipped to handle different situations. Don't be afraid to experiment with different Monsties and attack strategies. Sometimes the best approach is not the most obvious one. Master these combat fundamentals, and you'll be well on your way to becoming a legendary Monster Rider!

Exploring the World: From Lush Forests to Arid Deserts

One of the things that makes Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin so captivating is its absolutely gorgeous and diverse world. You're not just stuck in one little area; oh no, you'll be traveling across a whole continent filled with distinct and breathtaking environments. From the moment you leave the familiar Pologue region, you're thrust into a vibrant world brimming with life, secrets, and, of course, plenty of monsters. You'll traverse lush, overgrown forests where ancient ruins whisper tales of the past, navigate treacherous, sun-baked deserts where survival is a constant challenge, and explore icy tundras that test your endurance. Each area feels unique, not just visually, but also in terms of the challenges it presents and the monsters you'll encounter. For instance, navigating the dense jungles might require you to use your Monstie's field skills, like climbing vines or breaking through obstacles, to progress. In the deserts, you might need to find shade or use specific items to survive the harsh heat. These field skills are a game-changer! They’re not just for combat; they’re integral to exploration. Need to cross a chasm? Maybe your Monstie can fly or glide. Stuck behind a large boulder? A powerful Monstie can smash it. This encourages you to think strategically about which Monstie to bring with you on your journey, as their unique abilities can open up new paths and secrets. As you explore, keep your eyes peeled for hidden caves, rare monster dens, and valuable resources. Gathering materials is essential for crafting and upgrading your gear, which, as any Monster Hunter fan knows, is key to tackling tougher challenges. You'll find everything from herbs and mushrooms to monster parts, all vital for improving your weapons and armor. Don't just stick to the main path; venture off the beaten track! Some of the best discoveries, rarest eggs, and most powerful gear can be found by going off the beaten path. Pay attention to the environment; subtle clues can lead you to hidden treasures or secret areas. The world of Monster Hunter Stories 2 is designed to reward curiosity, so embrace your adventurous spirit and leave no stone unturned. The sheer scale of the world and the constant sense of discovery make exploration a truly rewarding experience.

The Story: A Tale of Friendship and Destiny

Beyond the thrilling combat and expansive exploration, Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin tells a compelling story that really pulls you in. At its heart, it's a tale about friendship, destiny, and the bond between humans and monsters. You play as a young Rider who inherits a legendary Guardian Ratha egg from your grandfather, the renowned Rider Keanu. This isn't just any egg; it's said to hold the key to preventing a world-ending catastrophe. Soon after, you team up with Ena, a young Zakku researcher, and your journey truly begins. The narrative expertly weaves together elements of mystery, adventure, and emotional depth. You'll meet a cast of memorable characters, each with their own motivations and stories. From the wise Elder Maeve to the gruff but kind-hearted Alloweth, these characters aren't just quest-givers; they become integral parts of your adventure, offering support, guidance, and sometimes even joining you in battle. The story really emphasizes the concept of kinship – not just between Riders and their Monsties, but also among people. You'll witness firsthand how cooperation and understanding can overcome even the greatest of challenges. The central conflict revolves around the mysterious phenomenon known as the 'Scourge,' which causes monsters to become enraged and destructive. Your quest is to uncover the truth behind the Scourge and find a way to protect the world, all while protecting the special egg you carry. The game does a fantastic job of building suspense and keeping you invested in the fate of the world and its inhabitants. There are twists and turns, moments of triumph, and moments of genuine peril. What makes the story particularly engaging is how it explores the relationship between humans and monsters. It challenges the traditional Monster Hunter narrative of hunting monsters and instead focuses on coexisting with them, understanding them, and forming bonds. This theme of harmony is central to the game's message and is reflected in every aspect, from the combat to the narrative. Prepare for an emotional rollercoaster as you uncover the secrets of Ratha and its connection to the fate of the world. It's a story that will resonate with you long after the credits roll.

Tips and Tricks for Aspiring Riders

Alright, seasoned Riders and newcomers alike, let's wrap this up with some essential tips to make your journey through Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin even smoother and more enjoyable. First off, don't neglect your Monsties' genes! The gene splicing system is one of the most powerful tools at your disposal. When you're in the Monster Den, look for eggs with rare skills or advantageous elements. Once hatched, take those genes to the Ritual site and start experimenting. Aim to create a well-rounded team with a variety of elemental types and attack patterns. A Monstie with a powerful speed attack might be great, but a Monstie with a strong technical attack and an ice element could be the key to defeating a fiery foe. Always keep an eye out for useful passive skills like 'Critical Boost' or 'HP Up' to transfer. Secondly, pay attention to your gear! While your Monsties are crucial, your Rider's equipment still plays a significant role. Crafting new weapons and armor at the village workshop using materials you've gathered is essential for increasing your survivability and damage output. Don't just stick with the same gear; upgrade and craft new sets as you progress and face tougher monsters. Look for gear that complements your Monstie's strengths or covers their weaknesses. Thirdly, explore thoroughly! I can't stress this enough. Those random Monster Dens you find while exploring? They're goldmines! Not only do they yield new Monstie eggs, but they often contain rare materials, treasure chests, and sometimes even unique monster variants. Make it a habit to clear out dens whenever you find them. Also, utilize your Monstie's Field Skills. Need to cross a large body of water? Find a Monstie that can swim. Want to reach a high ledge? Look for a flying or climbing Monstie. These skills are not just for traversal; they can unlock entirely new areas with even better loot! Fourth, master the Head-to-Head battles during Monstie Fusions. This is where you can really rack up damage. Pay close attention to the attack type icons and try to predict your opponent's move. Winning these exchanges not only deals massive damage but also fills your Kinship Gauge, allowing for more powerful attacks and Fusions. Finally, don't be afraid to retreat or retry. Some monsters are just too tough early on, or you might get an unlucky streak in combat. It's okay to disengage, level up your Monsties, craft better gear, or search for eggs with better genes. Monster Hunter Stories 2 is a marathon, not a sprint. Enjoy the journey, experiment with different strategies, and most importantly, have fun bonding with your Monsties and exploring this incredible world! Happy hunting, Riders!