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MONSTER

Monster Hunter Stories

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

2024

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

AvailableJun 14, 2024

PlatformPlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, PC, Xbox Series X, Xbox One

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

Monster Hunter Stories delivers a charming, emotional narrative praised for its engaging themes of friendship and adventure, appealing particularly to younger audiences. Critics commend the protagonist's journey and well-developed character relationships but note weaknesses in depth and predictability, with some calling the story generic and reliant on clichés. Despite its shortcomings, the game strikes a balance between lightheartedness and darker themes, offering memorable experiences that resonate with fans, even if it doesn't fully break new ground in the RPG genre.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

56%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

41%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The story of Monster Hunter Stories has garnered a largely positive reception among critics, highlighting its engaging narrative and emotional depth. Reviewers like GameCritics and GamingBolt appreciate the central theme of the protagonist's journey to become a Rider and combat the Black Blight, emphasizing the bond between riders and their Monsties. The narrative is often described as charming and heartwarming, with RPGamer noting the well-developed relationships between characters that enhance the storytelling experience. Critics also praise the game's ability to appeal to a younger audience, as seen in the opinions of God is a Geek and Eurogamer Portugal, who commend the story's focus on friendship and adventure, reminiscent of children's animations. However, several critics have pointed out notable weaknesses in the narrative. Hey Poor Player describes the story as serviceable but lacking depth, with generic threats and uninteresting characters that fail to stand out in the RPG genre. MeuPlayStation also raises concerns about narrative pacing issues and conveniences that detract from the overall experience. Additionally, RPG Fan criticizes the story for its traditional and unoriginal approach, relying heavily on JRPG tropes and the power of friendship as a resolution to conflicts, which some reviewers found predictable and clichéd. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Monster Hunter Stories offers a heartwarming and engaging narrative that resonates with younger players, it also suffers from predictability and a lack of depth in certain areas. Critics like Push Square and CGMagazine acknowledge the typical setup of the story but still find it engaging, indicating that the game successfully balances lighthearted themes with darker undertones. Despite its shortcomings, the game manages to provide memorable moments and character connections, making it a worthwhile experience for fans of the genre.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Monster Hunter Stories impresses with its engaging turn-based combat and strategic depth, earning praise for customization and crafting. However, it suffers from repetitiveness, low difficulty, and outdated exploration mechanics, leading some critics to view it as simplistic. While it's a solid choice for turn-based RPG fans, it may not satisfy those craving innovation in gameplay.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

53%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

47%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Monster Hunter Stories has garnered a largely positive reception from critics, who appreciate its engaging turn-based combat system that incorporates a rock-paper-scissors mechanic. Reviewers such as GameCritics and GGRecon highlight the strategic depth offered by this combat system, emphasizing the importance of utilizing unique abilities of various Monsties and the need for tactical decision-making during battles. The game also allows for customization and monster collection, which adds layers of engagement, as noted by IGN Spain and Hey Poor Player. Furthermore, the inclusion of crafting elements and a variety of quests contributes to a rich gameplay experience, with critics like RPGamer praising the unique mechanics like head-to-head duels and the ability to ride Monsties. However, several critics point out notable shortcomings in the gameplay. Many reviews, including those from GamingBolt and Noisy Pixel, mention that the overall experience can feel repetitive, particularly due to low difficulty and monotonous encounters. Critics like MeuPlayStation and NintendoWorldReport express concerns about the exploration elements feeling less engaging compared to previous action-focused titles, suggesting that the game lacks the depth and dynamism found in other entries in the genre. Additionally, some reviewers, such as IGN France, describe the gameplay as feeling dated and simplistic, especially when compared to its sequel, indicating that while the mechanics are solid, they may not hold up against contemporary standards. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Monster Hunter Stories offers a compelling and enjoyable gameplay experience, particularly for fans of turn-based RPGs and monster-collecting mechanics. While the game excels in strategic combat and customization, as highlighted by critics like Push Square and GAMES.CH, it also suffers from issues of repetition and outdated design elements, as noted by multiple reviewers. This duality suggests that while the game is a strong entry in its genre, it may not appeal to everyone, especially those seeking more innovative gameplay experiences.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Monster Hunter Stories' remaster impresses with vibrant graphics and detailed character models, earning praise for its colorful, charming art style. However, critics highlight persistent issues like dated visuals and texture problems that hold it back from PS4 standards. While many appreciate the improvements, the game still feels tied to its 3DS origins, leading to mixed reviews overall.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

21%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

73%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of Monster Hunter Stories have garnered a mixed but generally positive reception among critics. Many reviewers noted the significant improvements made in the remastered version compared to its original 3DS release. For instance, Gamers' Temple highlighted the colorful and clear graphics, while GAMES.CH praised the extensive reworking of character models, resulting in more detail and sharper images. Critics like God is a Geek and Player 2 echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the solid graphical enhancements that make the game feel modern. The vibrant art style, described as cartoonish and charming by But Why Tho?, has also been well-received, appealing to a younger audience and enhancing the overall experience. However, not all feedback is positive, as several critics pointed out notable shortcomings in the visual design. GameCritics and GamingBolt expressed concerns about the dated visuals, with issues such as lo-fi elements, flat graphics, and texture problems detracting from the experience. Hey Poor Player echoed this sentiment, stating that while improvements were made, the graphics still fell short of PS4 standards. Critics like MeuPlayStation and Nintendo Life noted that some in-game textures lacked detail, leading to an overall less attractive aesthetic. The chibi art style, while charming to some, was not universally favored, as noted by GamingBolt, which may alienate certain players looking for more mature designs. The overall consensus among critics suggests that while Monster Hunter Stories has made commendable strides in visual quality, it remains hampered by its origins as a 3DS title. Many reviewers acknowledged the vibrant and colorful art style, with CGMagazine and Crispy Gamer appreciating the charm it brings to the game. However, the limitations of the graphics, such as inconsistent textures and a lack of detail, were frequently mentioned, leading to a mixed reception. Critics like Vandal and ZTGD pointed out that the sequel showcases a more polished visual design, indicating that Monster Hunter Stories still feels somewhat constrained by its past. Overall, the remaster is seen as a step forward, yet it retains elements that remind players of its handheld roots, resulting in a divided opinion on its visual appeal.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Monster Hunter Stories shines with immersive sound design and music, praised for heroic battle tracks and rich character voice acting that elevate the storytelling. Critics commend the lively town music and familiar sound effects, though some note wilderness areas can feel empty, and audio quality issues may arise. Overall, the game delivers a commendable audio experience, enhancing engagement despite minor inconsistencies.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

69%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

31%

Negative Reviews (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 predominantly positive feedback from critics, highlighting the game's immersive audio experience. Many reviewers, such as GAMES.CH and IGN Spain, praised the heroic battle music and adventurous exploration tunes, which effectively enhance the atmosphere and overall gameplay. The addition of fully voiced characters in both English and Japanese has been a significant point of appreciation, with critics like Noisy Pixel and Player 2 noting that this feature enriches character interactions and storytelling, adding depth to the narrative. Furthermore, the lively music in towns, as mentioned by MeuPlayStation, contributes positively to the game's environment, while the familiar sound effects resonate well with fans of the Monster Hunter franchise, as pointed out by Nintenduo. On the flip side, some critics have pointed out certain shortcomings in the sound design and music. MeuPlayStation specifically noted that the wilderness areas can feel empty and silent, detracting from the overall experience. Additionally, RPGamer remarked that while the sound effects and music are good, they do not stand out as particularly memorable, suggesting that they contribute to the atmosphere without leaving a lasting impression. CGMagazine also highlighted issues with audio quality, mentioning that some sound effects can feel repetitive or stilted, which may detract from the immersion that the game strives to achieve. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Monster Hunter Stories offers a commendable sound design and music experience, with significant improvements brought by the inclusion of voice acting. Most reviewers, including GamingBolt and PlayStation Universe, agree that the remaster enhances the game's narrative delivery and character engagement through its audio elements. While there are some criticisms regarding the consistency of audio mixing and certain areas feeling less vibrant, the majority sentiment leans towards appreciation for the game's ability to create an engaging and immersive atmosphere through its sound design and music.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Critics widely praise the voice acting in Monster Hunter Stories, highlighting its contribution to character depth and storytelling, with standout performances like Navirou's enhancing immersion. The option to choose between English and Japanese is a significant improvement over the original's invented language. However, some criticisms arise over certain character tropes, audio mixing issues, and occasional melodrama. Overall, the voice work is seen as a major upgrade, enriching the experience for both new and returning players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

48%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

52%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in Monster Hunter Stories has received a largely positive reception from critics, highlighting its significant contribution to the game's overall experience. Many reviewers, such as GAMES.CH and GamingBolt, commend the newly recorded English and Japanese voice acting, which they feel brings the characters to life and enhances immersion. The standout performance by Navirou, noted by both GAMES.CH and RPG Fan, exemplifies the quality of the voice work that adds depth to character interactions. Critics like Noisy Pixel and RPGamer emphasize that the voice acting enhances storytelling and character personality, making players more invested in the narrative. Additionally, the inclusion of both English and Japanese voice options, as mentioned by Vandal and CGMagazine, is seen as a notable improvement over the original game's invented language, allowing players to connect more deeply with the characters. Despite the overall praise, some critiques have emerged regarding the voice acting quality and delivery. Player 2 pointed out that while the performances are generally well delivered, certain characters fall into established tropes, which may detract from the uniqueness of the experience. RPG Fan also mentioned instances of poor audio mixing that impacted the delivery of lines, suggesting that not all aspects of the voice acting were executed flawlessly. Furthermore, while Nintendo Life appreciated the charm added by the voice acting, they noted that it could sometimes veer into overly dramatic territory, indicating that the emotional delivery may not resonate with all players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the voice acting in Monster Hunter Stories is a significant enhancement over the original game, contributing positively to immersion and storytelling. Reviewers like IGN Spain and Multiplayer.it highlight the depth added to character interactions through the voice work, while others, such as COGconnected and Nintendo Insider, appreciate the consistency and engagement provided by returning voice actors. While there are some criticisms regarding the quality and delivery of certain performances, the general sentiment is that the voice acting is a commendable aspect of the remaster, making it a worthwhile experience for both new and returning fans of the series.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Monster Hunter Stories performs solidly across platforms, with PS4 offering smooth gameplay, PS5 boasting improved visuals, and Switch showing better stability than its predecessor. However, criticisms arise: PS4's graphics feel outdated, Switch faces loading issues and bugs, and PC has menu control problems despite smooth performance. Overall, the remaster enhances the experience but still feels tied to its original 3DS roots, impacting modern gameplay expectations.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

35%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

60%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of Monster Hunter Stories varies across platforms, but there are notable positives for each. On the PS4, critics generally agree that the game runs smoothly, with GameCritics highlighting its solid performance on modern systems. GAMES.CH mentions improvements in character models and textures on the PS5, while GGRecon appreciates the enhanced performance that maintains the core experience of the original game. Vandal emphasizes that the game runs at 60 fps with reduced loading times, showcasing solid technical performance overall. On the Nintendo Switch, CGMagazine and COGconnected praise the game for running smoothly with less load time and frame stuttering compared to its predecessor, Wings of Ruin. Multiplayer.it notes good fluidity with minor input lag, while Nintendo Insider acknowledges a stable experience despite some inconsistencies. For the PC version, Impulsegamer and TierraGamer report smooth performance with no significant technical issues, indicating a well-maintained port. However, there are several negatives across the platforms that critics have pointed out. On the PS4, MeuPlayStation notes that the game is limited by the console's performance, which may detract from the overall experience. GamingBolt argues that despite being a remaster, the game still feels like a near-decade-old 3DS title, lacking significant enhancements. On the Nintendo Switch, Eurogamer Portugal mentions frequent load times due to the original design, while Nintendo Life points out performance dips and bugs in later areas, which could disrupt gameplay. Nintenduo highlights long loading times and outdated graphics as limitations stemming from the 3DS port. For the PC version, But Why Tho? raises concerns about control issues, particularly with menu navigation, which can detract from the overall experience despite the game running fine. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Monster Hunter Stories delivers a solid technical performance across all platforms, though it is not without its flaws. The PS4 version is generally well-received for its smooth performance, albeit with some graphical limitations. The Nintendo Switch version shows improvements but suffers from inconsistencies and loading issues due to its roots in the 3DS. The PC version stands out for its stable performance, although control issues were noted by some. While the remaster brings some enhancements, critics like GamingBolt and MeuPlayStation highlight that it still carries the weight of its original design, which may affect the experience for players seeking a more modern gameplay feel.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Monster Hunter Stories garners positive feedback for its engaging gameplay and extensive content, offering over 40 hours of replayable fun through its robust campaign, quests, and customization options. Critics praise the diverse strategies for team-building, appealing especially to JRPG fans. However, concerns linger about its simplicity and limited multiplayer impact, which may deter long-term play. Overall, despite some limitations, the game's rich content and mechanics provide a compelling reason to return.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

39%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

61%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Monster Hunter Stories is largely positive, with many critics highlighting the game's engaging mechanics and extensive content. Critics such as God is a Geek and Player 2 emphasize the game's robust campaign and the numerous quests available, which can lead to over 40 hours of gameplay. The inclusion of DLC content, customization options, and the ability to collect and train various Monsties are frequently mentioned as factors that enhance replayability. For instance, GameCritics notes that the diverse strategies and team compositions available through customization can keep players returning for more. Additionally, RPGamer and Vandal point out that the game provides significant replay value through its main story, side quests, and post-game activities, appealing particularly to fans of JRPGs and the Monster Hunter franchise. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the limitations of the game that may affect its long-term replay value. Critics like GamingBolt and Noisy Pixel express concerns about the game's straightforward nature and lack of challenge, which could deter players from revisiting it after completing the main campaign. MeuPlayStation also points out that while multiplayer options exist, they are not impactful enough to significantly enhance replayability. Furthermore, CGMagazine and PLAY! Zine suggest that the game's origins on the 3DS may contribute to a sense of limitation, potentially affecting the depth of the experience compared to its sequel. In conclusion, while there are some criticisms regarding the game's straightforwardness and the impact of multiplayer options, the overall consensus among critics is that Monster Hunter Stories offers substantial replay value, especially for fans of the genre. Many reviewers, including Cubed3 and RPG Fan, highlight the variety of content available, including post-game challenges and monster collection, which encourages players to explore the game fully. Ultimately, the combination of engaging gameplay, customization, and extensive content creates a compelling reason for players to revisit the game, despite its noted limitations.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

61%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

39%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding Monster Hunter Stories is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its charm, accessibility, and engaging gameplay. GameCritics highlights the game as a great entry point for newcomers, while Gamers' Temple commends its characters, visuals, and gameplay, awarding it a solid 80%. GAMES.CH notes improvements in character models and textures, enhancing the overall experience, and Noisy Pixel describes it as an addictive comfort game enriched by voice acting. Critics like God is a Geek and Player 2 emphasize its solid combat and engaging mechanics, making it a must-play for fans and newcomers alike. The game's ability to provide a unique RPG experience within the Monster Hunter universe is frequently noted, with CGMagazine and Eurogamer Portugal also emphasizing its charm and accessibility. However, several reviewers point out notable flaws that detract from the overall experience. IGN Spain criticizes the remaster for falling short in graphical improvements and gameplay mechanics, suggesting it may not meet the expectations of hardcore fans. Hey Poor Player mentions the game’s struggle to compete with other RPGs on the PS4 due to its simple design and lackluster story. MeuPlayStation echoes this sentiment, indicating that while the game is charming, it may disappoint more dedicated fans due to pacing and exploration issues. Additionally, GamingBolt and RPG Fan highlight the game's age, with some visuals and gameplay elements feeling outdated, which could hinder the experience for some players. The overall consensus among critics is that Monster Hunter Stories is a delightful and engaging RPG that successfully appeals to both newcomers and existing fans of the franchise, despite some limitations. While many reviewers like Push Square and RPGamer acknowledge the game's charm and engaging mechanics, they also recognize its shortcomings, particularly in terms of visual fidelity and narrative depth. The game is often recommended as a fun, accessible introduction to the Monster Hunter universe, with a low barrier to entry, making it especially appealing to younger audiences and those new to the genre. Ultimately, while Monster Hunter Stories may not be perfect, its strengths in gameplay and charm resonate strongly with critics, making it a worthwhile experience for many players.

TL;DR

Monster Hunter Stories receives mostly positive reviews for its charm and engaging gameplay, making it a great entry point for newcomers. Critics praise its visuals and characters, though some note flaws like outdated graphics and a simple story that may disappoint hardcore fans. Despite these issues, it’s recognized as a fun RPG within the Monster Hunter universe, appealing to younger players and those new to the genre. Overall, while not flawless, it offers a delightful experience worth trying.

MONSTER

Reviews

98 reviews found

COGconnected

Nintendo Switch

Jun 13, 2024