Mastering Monster Hunter Stories 2: The Ultimate Gameplay Guide – Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin has captivated players with its immersive storyline, vibrant visuals, and engaging turn-based combat. Whether you’re a newcomer to the franchise or a seasoned hunter exploring this spin-off, mastering the game requires a thorough understanding of its mechanics, strategies, and tips. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the game’s complexities and maximize your experience.

Understanding the Basics of Monster Hunter Stories 2

1. What is Monster Hunter Stories 2?

Unlike the mainline Monster Hunter series, Monster Hunter Stories 2 is a turn-based RPG where you play as a Rider, forging bonds with monsters known as Monsties. Your goal is to raise and battle alongside these Monsties while uncovering the secrets of the mysterious Wings of Ruin.

2. Key Differences from Mainline Monster Hunter Games

• Turn-Based Combat: Unlike real-time action, battles in Monster Hunter Stories 2 rely on tactical decision-making.
• Monster Bonding: Instead of hunting monsters, you hatch eggs and bond with Monsties.
• Story-Driven Gameplay: The narrative plays a central role, making it a more character-focused experience.

3. Core Gameplay Elements

• Exploration: Traverse diverse biomes, gather resources, and uncover Monster Dens.
• Combat: Engage in strategic turn-based battles with Monsties and enemies.
• Crafting: Create weapons, armor, and items to enhance your Rider’s abilities.

Building a Strong Team of Monsties

1. Finding and Hatching Monster Eggs

To build a formidable team, you must collect and hatch eggs from Monster Dens.

• Types of Dens: Rare Dens offer better eggs with stronger Monsties.
• Egg Smell and Weight: A stronger smell and heavier weight often indicate a more powerful Monstie.

2. Understanding Monstie Genes

Genes determine your Monstie’s abilities and stats.

• Gene Rarity: Higher rarity genes provide stronger skills.
• Bingo Bonuses: Aligning similar genes on the gene grid boosts stats and unlocks bonuses.

3. Diversifying Your Team

Ensure your team includes Monsties with various attack types (Power, Speed, and Technical) and elemental affinities to tackle different challenges.

Mastering Turn-Based Combat

1. Attack Types and Counters

Combat revolves around a rock-paper-scissors system:

• Power beats Technical.
• Technical beats Speed.
• Speed beats Power. Understanding enemy attack patterns and switching Monsties accordingly is key to victory.

2. Kinship Gauge and Skills

• Kinship Gauge: Build this gauge during battles to unleash powerful Kinship Skills.
• Skills: Use Rider and Monstie skills strategically to exploit enemy weaknesses.

3. Double Attacks

Coordinate attacks with your Monstie to perform Double Attacks, which deal significant damage and negate enemy moves.

4. Battle Tips

• Focus on Targeting Weak Spots: Break enemy parts to gain rewards and weaken foes.
• Utilize Elemental Advantages: Match your Monstie’s element to the enemy’s weakness for extra damage.

Exploring the World of Monster Hunter Stories 2

1. Navigating the Map

The game features a variety of locations, from lush forests to volcanic caverns.

• Fast Travel: Unlock Catavan Stands to quickly travel between areas.
• Resource Gathering: Collect materials like herbs, ores, and bones to craft items.

2. Monster Dens and Expeditions

• Standard vs. Rare Dens: Rare Dens yield better loot and stronger Monsties.
• Expedition Parties: Send extra Monsties on expeditions to gather resources and level up.

3. Subquests and Side Content

• Subquests: Complete optional quests to earn money, experience, and items.
• Everdens: Explore Everdens to collect Bottle Caps, a valuable currency for upgrading equipment.

Crafting and Upgrading Equipment

1. Gathering Materials

To craft and upgrade your gear, you’ll need resources like ore, monster parts, and herbs. Hunt specific monsters or explore certain areas to find these materials.

2. Weapon Types

The game features six weapon types:

• Great Sword: High damage, slow attacks.
• Sword and Shield: Balanced offense and defense.
• Hammer: Powerful blunt weapon.
• Hunting Horn: Buffs allies and deals damage.
• Bow: Ranged weapon with elemental coatings.
• Gunlance: Combines melee and explosive attacks. Choose a weapon type that suits your playstyle and adapt it for different encounters.

3. Armor Sets

Armor provides defense and grants skills that enhance your abilities. Equip armor sets that complement your Monstie team and playstyle.

Advanced Tips and Strategies

1. Gene Channeling

Gene Channeling allows you to transfer genes between Monsties, creating powerful hybrids.

• Strategic Customization: Tailor your Monsties to counter specific challenges.
• Unlocking Potential: Use Rite of Channeling to maximize a Monstie’s potential.

2. Multiplayer Co-Op and PvP

• Co-Op Quests: Team up with friends to tackle challenging quests and earn rare rewards.
• PvP Battles: Test your team’s strength against other players online.

3. Managing Resources

• Healing and Buff Items: Stock up on potions, herbs, and other consumables.
• Battle Prep: Always prepare your team and gear before facing tough monsters or story missions.

Progressing Through the Story

1. Key Story Missions

Follow the main questline to uncover the secrets of the Wings of Ruin. The story is divided into chapters, each introducing new characters, areas, and challenges.

2. Building Relationships with NPCs

Interact with NPCs to unlock additional quests, rewards, and story insights. Pay attention to their requests and assist them whenever possible.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

1. Struggling with Tough Monsters

• Analyze Patterns: Learn enemy attack patterns to anticipate their moves.
• Upgrade Gear: Craft better weapons and armor to improve your chances.

2. Managing Monstie Diversity

• Hatch More Eggs: Regularly visit Monster Dens to expand your roster.
• Focus on Versatility: Balance your team with different attack types and elements.

3. Resource Shortages

• Farm Materials: Revisit areas and hunt monsters to gather what you need.
• Expedition Parties: Use expeditions to passively collect resources.

Conclusion

Mastering Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin requires patience, strategy, and exploration. By understanding the game’s mechanics, building a balanced team, and preparing for every encounter, you’ll become a skilled Rider ready to face any challenge. Whether you’re uncovering the mysteries of the story or competing in multiplayer battles, this guide will ensure you’re equipped to excel in your adventure. Happy riding!