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MONSTER

Monster Hunter Stories

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Monster Hunter Stories
Item: Monster Hunter Stories
Author: Critik Editorial Team

2024

GenresAdventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, RPG, Anime and JRPG, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableJun 14, 2024

PlatformPlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, PC

DeveloperCapcom

Overview

Monster Hunter Stories is a role-playing game spin-off of the popular Monster Hunter franchise, but features a drastically different gameplay focus. Unlike previous titles in the franchise, Monster Hunter Stories lets players take on the role of a Rider instead of a Hunter, and are able to take part in a traditional turn-based battle system. Major changes and additions featured in this title include hatching eggs and befriending monsters, battling alongside them, executing special kinship techniques, and customizing monsters' abilities and appearance

Elsewhere

8.0

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Critics generally praise Monster Hunter Stories for its engaging storytelling, unique take on the Monster Hunter universe, and character development. Some point out concerns about lack of originality and reliance on typical JRPG tropes. Overall, the game offers a heartwarming story appealing to a wide audience, especially younger players, with themes of companionship and growth. Despite some criticisms, most reviewers find it a worthwhile addition to the franchise.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

64%

Mixed (50-79)

36%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The opinions of the critics regarding the story of Monster Hunter Stories are largely positive. Critics like GGRecon, PlayStation Universe, and NintendoWorldReport praise the engaging storytelling, with a focus on themes of friendship, family, and adventure. They appreciate the unique take on the Monster Hunter universe, emphasizing character development and emotional depth. The introduction of new elements such as becoming a Rider and training monsters instead of hunting them adds a fresh perspective, as noted by IGN Spain and Noisy Pixel. Additionally, the incorporation of voice acting in cutscenes, as highlighted by ZTGD, enhances the overall narrative experience, making it more immersive and engaging. On the other hand, some critics express concerns about the story's lack of originality and reliance on typical JRPG tropes. RPG Fan mentions that the narrative in Monster Hunter Stories feels traditional and lacks innovation, focusing heavily on themes of friendship and love as a solution to the main conflict. While the story balances lighthearted tones with darker themes, as noted by CGMagazine, some critics feel that the plot could have delved deeper into the lore and offered more intricate storytelling to elevate the overall experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Monster Hunter Stories delivers an engaging and heartwarming story that appeals to a wide audience, particularly younger players. The game successfully expands the Monster Hunter universe by introducing new gameplay mechanics and a compelling narrative that explores themes of companionship, growth, and overcoming challenges. Despite some criticisms regarding the lack of originality and depth in the storytelling, the majority of reviewers appreciate the game's focus on character development and emotional resonance, making it a worthwhile addition to the Monster Hunter franchise.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Critics praise Monster Hunter Stories for its engaging gameplay with unique features like turn-based combat and monster abilities, blending Pokemon mechanics with Monster Hunter elements. Some critics note weaknesses in combat, citing low difficulty and repetitiveness. Overall, the game offers a compelling experience with engaging combat, monster customization, and addictive exploration, though concerns about repetitive gameplay have been raised. Despite criticisms, most critics find Monster Hunter Stories a worthwhile experience for genre fans.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

50%

Mixed (50-79)

50%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Monster Hunter Stories has received praise from several critics for its engaging and unique features. Critics like CGMagazine and COGconnected appreciate the turn-based combat system reminiscent of Pokemon, with special abilities for each monster adding depth and enjoyment to the battles. IGN Spain highlights the mix of Pokemon mechanics with Monster Hunter elements, emphasizing the collecting and training of monsters for combat, which adds a layer of strategy and excitement to the gameplay. The exploration elements, such as collecting Poogies, as noted by Noisy Pixel, contribute to addictive gameplay aspects that enhance the overall experience. On the downside, some critics have pointed out certain weaknesses in the gameplay of Monster Hunter Stories. Noisy Pixel mentions that the combat system, while approachable with its rock-paper-scissors mechanic, can become dull due to low difficulty and repetitive encounters. NintendoWorldReport criticizes the battle system for being repetitive and solely based on a rock-paper-scissors mechanic, which may lead to a lack of variety and challenge in the long run. These criticisms suggest that while the gameplay has its strengths, there are aspects that could be improved to maintain player engagement over time. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Monster Hunter Stories offers a compelling gameplay experience that combines elements of monster-collecting RPG mechanics with turn-based combat and exploration. Positive aspects such as the engaging combat system, monster customization options, and addictive exploration elements have been highlighted by various critics. However, concerns about potential repetitiveness and lack of challenge in the combat system have also been raised by some reviewers. Despite these criticisms, the majority of critics appreciate the unique blend of gameplay mechanics that Monster Hunter Stories brings to the table, making it a worthwhile experience for fans of the genre.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Critics praised Monster Hunter Stories for enhanced graphics and vibrant visuals, including reworked character models and colorful environments. However, some highlighted graphical inconsistencies and outdated appearances, especially on more powerful platforms like the Nintendo Switch. Overall, while the game received solid improvements, there were mixed feedback on certain aspects of its visual design.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

23%

Mixed (50-79)

69%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

In terms of positives, several critics praised the enhanced graphics and visual design of Monster Hunter Stories. GAMES.CH highlighted the reworked character models with increased detail and sharper textures. GGRecon appreciated the cartoonish and colorful visuals that were faithfully remastered for modern systems. COGconnected noted the crisper colors, gorgeous views, and more saturated palette on the Nintendo Switch, making the game visually appealing. ZTGD also mentioned the enhanced graphics and full voice overs for cutscenes, enhancing the overall visual experience. These improvements contributed to a more immersive and visually pleasing gameplay experience for players. On the flip side, some critics pointed out certain negatives regarding the graphics and visual design of Monster Hunter Stories. IGN Spain mentioned graphical inconsistencies that could be improved, especially on the PlayStation 5 version. PlayStation Universe noted that while character models and monsters looked great, the world felt barren with pop-up issues, impacting the overall immersion. Nintenduo criticized the game for being too faithful to its original Nintendo 3DS version, lacking visual enhancements for the more powerful hardware of the Nintendo Switch. RPG Site highlighted that despite the higher framerate on the Switch, the game still retained the appearance of a title from the 3DS era, with outdated character models and camera controls. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the graphics and visual design of Monster Hunter Stories is generally positive, with some mixed feedback. While the remastered version received solid graphical improvements, as noted by God is a Geek, there were also mentions of areas that could be further enhanced, such as graphical inconsistencies and outdated character models. The vibrant art style and colorful environments were appreciated by many, balancing out some of the visual shortcomings. Despite some criticisms about fidelity to the original 3DS version and occasional limitations from being a port, the overall sentiment leans towards an enjoyable visual experience, especially with the enhancements made for modern systems.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Critics mostly praise Monster Hunter Stories for its strong sound design and music, especially the addition of fully voiced dialogue and immersive sound effects that enhance the gameplay experience. However, some critics note drawbacks like inconsistent audio mixing and repetitive sound effects. Overall, while there are minor issues, the game's sound design succeeds in creating an engaging and immersive world for players, catering well to fans of the Monster Hunter series.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

83%

Mixed (50-79)

17%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The Sound Design and Music of Monster Hunter Stories have received mostly positive feedback from critics. GAMES.CH, GGRecon, and Noisy Pixel all praise the addition of fully voiced English and Japanese dialogue, highlighting how it enhances the overall gaming experience by bringing characters to life and strengthening storytelling. IGN Spain also commends the game for excelling in sound design, with excellent music, sound effects, and new English voice acting that immerse players in the game world. Additionally, PlayStation Universe and COGconnected appreciate the fully voiced characters and fitting soundtrack that stay true to the Monster Hunter series, adding to the immersive atmosphere. On the flip side, CGMagazine points out some drawbacks in the sound design, mentioning that the audio quality can sometimes sound like flattened 3DS audio and that certain sound effects may feel repetitive or stilted. RPG Fan further adds that the audio mixing can be inconsistent, which could potentially impact the overall gaming experience. These criticisms suggest that while the addition of voice acting and familiar Monster Hunter sound effects are generally well-received, there are areas where the game's sound design could be improved for a more polished experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Monster Hunter Stories' Sound Design and Music are strong points of the game, with the addition of fully voiced dialogue, heroic battle music, and immersive sound effects enhancing the gameplay experience. Critics like NintendoWorldReport and Nintenduo appreciate the familiar atmosphere created by the sound and music, catering to fans of the franchise. While there are mentions of minor issues such as audio quality and mixing inconsistencies, the general sentiment is positive, with the majority of critics acknowledging the game's efforts to elevate its audio elements and create a more engaging and immersive world for players to enjoy.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Critics praise Monster Hunter Stories' voice acting for its immersive dual-language approach, deep character connections, and consistent performances. Despite some audio mixing issues noted by RPG Fan, the voice acting enhances the game's charm and narrative depth, appealing to both fans and newcomers alike. Overall, the consensus is that the voice acting enriches the storytelling experience in Monster Hunter Stories.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive (80-100)

31%

Mixed (50-79)

69%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Monster Hunter Stories has received generally positive feedback from critics. Many reviewers highlighted the inclusion of both English and Japanese voice acting as a significant enhancement to the game's immersion and storytelling. Critics like GGRecon and God is a Geek appreciated the fully voiced dialogue in multiple languages, which they felt deepened the connection to the characters and contributed to the overall narrative experience. Noisy Pixel specifically praised the voice acting for adding depth to the characters and maintaining consistency throughout the game, which helped players become more invested in the story. Additionally, CGMagazine and NintendoWorldReport noted that the voice acting added to the immersive experience and charm of the game, sparking nostalgia for fans of the Monster Hunter series. However, there were some criticisms regarding the voice acting in Monster Hunter Stories. RPG Fan mentioned instances where the audio felt poorly mixed, impacting the delivery of lines. This inconsistency in audio quality could potentially detract from the overall enjoyment of the voice acting experience for some players. While most critics did not explicitly mention any major flaws in the voice acting, the feedback from RPG Fan suggests that there may be room for improvement in terms of audio production and mixing to ensure a more seamless and engaging voice acting performance. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the voice acting in Monster Hunter Stories is a positive aspect of the game, with the inclusion of multiple languages and fully voiced dialogue enhancing the immersion and storytelling experience. The standout performances, particularly by characters like Navirou, were highlighted as strengths by multiple reviewers. Despite some concerns about audio quality raised by RPG Fan, the general sentiment is that the voice acting contributes significantly to the charm and heart of the game, appealing to both returning fans and new players. The overall positive reception of the voice acting indicates that it successfully complements the game's narrative and character development, adding another layer of depth to the Monster Hunter Stories experience.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Critics generally praise Monster Hunter Stories for strong technical performance on PS4 and PS5, with improved visuals and smooth gameplay. On Nintendo Switch, opinions vary with some praising smooth performance while others criticize long loading times and outdated graphics. Overall, the game offers an enjoyable experience on all platforms, each with its own strengths and weaknesses.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

43%

Mixed (50-79)

57%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

In terms of technical performance on the PS4 and PS5 platforms, the consensus among critics is generally positive. GAMES.CH notes that the game runs smoothly on the PS4, with improved character models and textures on the PS5. GGRecon also highlights the remaster offering better performance and smooth running on modern systems. These positive aspects indicate that the game performs well on PlayStation consoles, providing an enhanced visual experience and maintaining the core gameplay experience. On the Nintendo Switch platform, the opinions regarding technical performance are a bit more varied. CGMagazine and COGconnected both praise the game for running smoothly without any frame issues, offering an optimal performance experience. However, Nintenduo points out long loading times and outdated graphics as negatives, highlighting technical limitations from the 3DS port. RPG Site also mentions shortcomings such as slow traversal and outdated camera controls, reminiscent of the 3DS era. These criticisms suggest that while the game performs adequately on the Switch, there are noticeable technical drawbacks that may impact the overall experience for some players. Overall, the critics' consensus on the technical performance of Monster Hunter Stories leans towards positive feedback, particularly on the PlayStation platforms where the game is praised for running smoothly and offering enhanced visuals. On the Nintendo Switch, while some reviewers commend the game for its smooth performance and improved experience compared to the 3DS version, others raise concerns about long loading times, outdated graphics, and technical limitations. Despite these mixed opinions, the general sentiment is that Monster Hunter Stories delivers a playable and enjoyable experience across different gaming platforms, with each having its own set of strengths and weaknesses that may influence player preferences.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Monster Hunter Stories impresses with its replay value, featuring engaging gameplay, rare Monsties, and extensive campaign that keeps players coming back for more. While some critics mention a middling narrative and lack of challenge as potential downsides, the game's immersive world, unique monsters, and additional content ensure a satisfying replay experience overall. Recommended for fans of Monster Hunter and RPGs seeking lasting entertainment.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

31%

Mixed (50-79)

69%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The critics generally agree that Monster Hunter Stories offers significant positives in terms of replay value. GGRecon highlights the engaging gameplay and storytelling that may entice players to embark on a second playthrough, especially appealing to fans of Monster Hunter and classic RPGs. God is a Geek praises the game for its extensive campaign, rare Monsties to collect, and endgame activities, which contribute to a satisfying replay experience. PlayStation Universe and CGMagazine also note the game's replay value through capturing monsters, gene manipulation, exploring the world, and encountering a variety of monsters with unique abilities. On the other hand, some critics point out potential negatives that could impact the long-term replay value of Monster Hunter Stories. Noisy Pixel mentions the middling narrative and lack of challenge as factors that may limit replayability. NintendoWorldReport highlights that while the game offers online multiplayer battles, postgame challenges, and new monsters, the battle system could potentially hinder long-term engagement. These criticisms suggest that certain aspects of the game may not fully sustain player interest over multiple playthroughs. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Monster Hunter Stories provides a solid replay value for players. IGN Spain emphasizes the immersive world and engaging gameplay mechanics as contributing factors to the game's replayability. ZTGD and Nintenduo appreciate the game's appeal to younger audiences with simplified combat and the ability to hatch and train 'monsties,' which enhances replayability. RPG Site and GameGrin commend the additional content such as postgame battles, refighting story battles, new Riders, and customization options that extend the gameplay experience. The collective opinions suggest that while there are some drawbacks, the overall consensus leans towards Monster Hunter Stories offering a worthwhile replay value for fans of the Monster Hunter series and RPG enthusiasts.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive (80-100)

61%

Mixed (50-79)

39%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The critics generally praised Monster Hunter Stories for its engaging gameplay, enhanced presentation, and charming characters. GAMES.CH highlighted the improvements in character models and textures, while Noisy Pixel appreciated the addictive nature of the game and the benefits of voice acting. GGRecon and God is a Geek both commended the satisfying gameplay mechanics and modern feel of the game, catering to fans of the franchise. ZTGD and COGconnected specifically mentioned the enhanced graphics and voice overs, making the game visually appealing and immersive. On the downside, some critics, like IGN Spain and RPG Fan, pointed out certain shortcomings in Monster Hunter Stories. IGN Spain mentioned that the remaster fell short in graphical improvements and gameplay mechanics, although it excelled in sound design. RPG Fan criticized the traditional and uninspired story, despite praising the dynamic gameplay and colorful environments. COGconnected also highlighted plain story elements and boring side quests as negatives. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Monster Hunter Stories offers an enjoyable experience for fans of the franchise and newcomers alike. While it may have some flaws in terms of narrative depth, graphical improvements, and challenge level, the game succeeds in providing engaging gameplay, charming characters, and a unique spinoff experience within the Monster Hunter universe. Critics like PlayStation Universe and GameGrin appreciated the departure from the main series and the adorable monster-catching experience the game offers. Despite differing opinions on specific aspects, the general sentiment leans towards recommending Monster Hunter Stories for its entertainment value and accessibility to a wide range of players.

TL;DR

Monster Hunter Stories: Critics praise engaging gameplay, charming characters, and enhanced presentation, though some point out flaws in story depth and graphics. Overall, a fun experience offering a unique spinoff within the franchise.

MONSTER

Reviews

98 reviews found

COGconnected

Nintendo Switch

Jun 13, 2024