Capcom has given us a sneak peek at some of the information regarding the next spin-off entry into the Monster Hunter series, titled Monster Hunter Stories.
The game, at it’s base, is a turn-based RPG for the 3DS, but even with what little we’ve been told about the game already, it seems there will be some fun little quirks throughout.
Story
The story opens on the protagonist in Rider Village, after completing the test to become a Rider. He is gifted the Kizuna Stone (Kizuna means ‘Bond’) from the village elder, and he sets out to see the world with his partner Nabiru, a felyne friend who helped during the trial.
However, not everything is going well. People have been noticing that their lives and environment are changing, and not for the better. Riders and Hunters both will be tested by the gathering shadow, and, while they may not realize it, the key to victory lies within the Kizuna Stone and the hidden truth behind an ancient legend.
Characters
Protagonist
The Protagonist can be made either Male or Female, and is a bright and curious young Rider-to-be. From the get-go, the protagonist wishes to become a Rider and travel the world to see what’s out there.
Nabiru
An odd felyne and friend to the hero.
Senpai Rider
A an experienced rider who is kind, but a bit hot-blooded. Throughout the game, he will give advice to the hero about being a Rider.
Childhood Friend (Boy)
One of the more mature of the hero’s group of friends, he is another kind boy who aims to become a Rider.
Childhood Friend (Girl)
A bit of a busybody, she is constantly on the move and full of energy, often pulling the hero and their friends along.
Village Elder
Elder of the Dragon Tribe. He watches over the people of the Tribe, and is a bit mischievous. He also loves his puns.
Felyne and Melynx
Lynian monsters who are capable of understanding human speech.
World
Hunter Village – Located by the shore, this town is full of Hunters. Typical of the Monster Hunter series, this town is full of shops and markets, and features the Hunter Guild, run by the Guild Master.
Starter Field – A simple plain abundant with nature. There are some ancient ruins located here as well as a great valley in the middle. Monsters love to roam this area, even including some of the bigger variety.
Other Locations – Plenty of other Monster Hunter style locales will be involved, including deserts, forests, and tundras.
Battle System
Monster Hunter Stories‘ battle system uses a turn-based style system, and utilizes three main commands – “Power”, “Technique”, and “Speed”. And, pulling a page from the mainline games, monsters will also have habits that will allow you to predict what will be your best option in battle.
“Otomon” are friendly monsters that Riders will be able to bond with. These Otomon will have their own minds and operate on their own will, but they can work together with a Rider to perform a cooperation attack if the situation is right.
The iconic selection of Monster Hunter weapons will be making an appearance as well, with a Rider’s attacks changing based upon their weapon. Each type will have a special skill that corresponds to it’s type – Sword and Shield will have “Shield Bash”, Long Swords will have an attack called “Nagiharai”, etc.
Riders will be able to band with their partner monsters, and will gain access to new abilities as they deepen this bond. Eventually, they will unlock the “Ride On” skill which will dramatically increase their usefulness in battle. And through the use of the Kizuna Stone, “Bond Techniques” will become available as the bond grows; and these will all vary depending on the monster.
The Otomon will be found in eggs throughout the field. You can bring these back to the village to raise them and hatch new Otomon. These new creatures will vary depending on where you picked up the egg.
Monster Hunter Stories is set up to be released on the 3DS in Japan sometime in 2016. You can check out the game’s official site here for more details and a ton more artwork.
