Monster Hunter Stories
" Charming RPG with monster riding and bonding but battles rely heavily on luck "
Monster Hunter Stories Review
Monster Hunter Stories is a spin-off RPG that offers a unique take on the Monster Hunter franchise by focusing on monster riding and turn-based battles. The game features a charming art style and solid voice acting in both Japanese and English, which many players appreciate. Riding monsters enhances exploration, making travel faster and more enjoyable. However, the gameplay suffers from heavy reliance on RNG, leading to frustrating boss fights and a slow battle pace even with speed-up options. The story pacing is uneven, often pushing players into under-leveled battles and overwhelming them with subquests that feel unrewarding. Character development, particularly of antagonist Cheval, is seen as weak. Additionally, the game’s UI and aesthetics, including armor customization, receive mixed reviews. Despite these flaws, nostalgic fans and newcomers seeking a casual Monster Hunter experience find value in the game. The remaster to PC has mixed reception, with some preferring the original 3DS version due to porting issues.
Highlights
Players praise the game's art style for its charm and distinct monster designs, making the world visually appealing. Riding monsters is highlighted as a fun mechanic that enhances exploration and travel speed. The voice acting in both Japanese and English is well-received, adding depth to the narrative. Fans of the Monster Hunter franchise appreciate the nostalgic value and the fresh spin on monster collection and battles. The game is recommended as a good introduction to Monster Hunter for casual players.
Criticisms
Common criticisms include the RNG-heavy battle system that can cause unfair losses and necessitate repeated retries, which frustrates many players. The story pacing is considered poor, with players often facing under-leveled bosses if they follow the main plot without extensive grinding. The slow battle and interface speed detracts from the overall experience. Players also note the tedious monster egg hunting mechanic and an overload of bland subquests. The character development is weak, particularly for antagonist Cheval. Additionally, the PC port suffers from technical and aesthetic issues compared to the original.
Pros
- • The art style is visually charming and enhances monster designs effectively.
- • Riding monsters makes exploration faster and more enjoyable.
- • Both Japanese and English voice acting are well done and immersive.
- • Nostalgic appeal for fans of the original 3DS game.
- • Good introduction to Monster Hunter for casual players.
- • Creative and humorous use of puns adds lightheartedness.
- • Monster collection and bonding mechanics are engaging.
Cons
- • Battles rely heavily on luck, causing frustrating repeated failures.
- • Story pacing is uneven, often forcing under-leveled boss fights.
- • Subquests are numerous but offer bland and unrewarding rewards.
- • Slow interface and battle animations reduce game flow.
- • Monster egg hunting mechanics feel tedious and repetitive.
- • Character customization options are limited and visually inconsistent.
- • Antagonist Cheval is poorly written and unengaging.
Rating Criteria
Monster Hunter Stories is an RPG that takes the world of Monster Hunter and expands upon it in new and exciting ways! No longer are you hunting monsters, but raising them! In this deep story featuring heroes known as Monster Riders, you will live alongside monsters and form lifelong bonds with them.