The Monster Hunter Stories Collection, published by Capcom for PlayStation 4, brings together the original Monster Hunter Stories and its sequel, Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin – marking the first time that both of these excellent games are available on PlayStation. This bundle offers a comprehensive experience of the Monster Hunter Stories universe through a fresh RPG lens, making it an enticing package for those who haven’t yet enjoyed these on other platforms. Time for a closer look.
Monster Hunter Stories
The first installment of Monster Hunter Stories introduces players to the world of the Riders, who are different in that they form bonds with monsters instead of hunting them. Set in a vibrant village, the story follows a young Rider who must head out into the world of Hunters to fight the so-called Black Blight. The narrative is charming and engaging, blending themes of friendship and adventure with a touch of darkness as you uncover ancient secrets and face strong foes.
The gameplay in Monster Hunter Stories is a departure from the traditional Monster Hunter formula. Instead of action-oriented combat, the game features a turn-based battle system that relies on a rock-paper-scissors mechanic with Power, Speed, and Technical attacks. This system, which is easier to master than the combat in the main series, adds a strategic layer that is accessible to players of all skill levels. The ability to hatch and raise Monsties (a cute name for monster companions) adds depth and variety to the gameplay, encouraging exploration and experimentation with different monster abilities and combinations.
Visually, Monster Hunter Stories retains the colorful art style that stands out from the more realistic looking Monster Hunter games. The updated PS4 version benefits from enhanced graphics over the Switch version, as well as full voice acting in both Japanese and English, which enhances the narrative experience. Additionally, the inclusion of a new museum mode with concept art and music tracks provides longtime fans with extra content to delve into.
However, the game is not without its flaws. Some players who come from the mainline series of games might find the turn-based combat less thrilling compared to the action-packed gameplay they’re used to. Additionally, the story, while endearing, can feel a bit predictable at times. But despite these minor issues, Monster Hunter Stories offers a refreshing take on the franchise that is both charming and engaging – and a good addition to the PlayStation library.
Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin
Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin builds upon the foundation laid by its predecessor, delivering a more polished and expansive experience. Set mostly in Mahana Village, the story revolves around the disappearance of Rathalos and the hatching of a special Rathalos that could either bring hope or devastation. This narrative and the way it’s delivered is more intricate and mature, delving deeper into the lore and offering a richer, more emotional journey – as such, it’s a great follow-up to the first game.
The turn-based combat system introduced in Monster Hunter Stories returns with improvements, including a greater emphasis on strategy and the introduction of new combat mechanics. In Wings of Ruin, players can utilize various weapon types from the main series, adding more depth to the battles as well as more crossover appeal. The ability to transfer genes between Monsties through the Rite of Channeling allows for extensive customization, enabling players to tailor their team to their preferred playstyle.
Visually, Wings of Ruin is a significant step up from its Switch-focused predecessor as well. The game’s graphics are more detailed, with beautifully rendered environments and character models that bring the world to life. The audio design is equally impressive, featuring a solid soundtrack and high-quality voice acting that enhance the overall immersion.
But while Wings of Ruin generally offers a more refined experience, it still shares some of the first game’s shortcomings. The pacing can be uneven, with some segments feeling a bit too drawn out, and the turn-based combat, though improved, may still not appeal to fans of the action-oriented main series despite the introduction of weapons from those titles. Nonetheless, Monster Hunter Stories 2 is a compelling sequel that successfully expands the scope and depth of the original.
In conclusion, the Monster Hunter Stories Collection is a must-have for RPG enthusiasts who are also fans of the Monster Hunter franchise. Combining the charming and accessible gameplay of the first game with the richer experience of the sequel, this bundle offers a lengthy journey through the world of Monster Riders. Despite some minor flaws, both games provide unique and engaging adventures that stand out within the Monster Hunter universe.
Score: 8.0/10
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