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MONSTER

Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin
Item: Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2021

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

AvailableJul 9, 2021

PlatformXbox Series X, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PC

DeveloperCapcom

Overview

Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin offers both RPG and Monster Hunter fans a unique new experience with a rich storyline featuring charming characters, challenging quests and friendly encounters with familiar monsters from the Monster Hunter series. Assuming the role of a young Monster Rider who can use a Kinship Stone to form strong bonds with monsters, players can gain experience and improve their skills to form deeper connections with these wonderful creatures. When ready, players can embark on memorable adventures filled with dramatic events and heartwarming friendships as the epic tale unfolds.

Elsewhere

8.0

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin features a heartfelt narrative with strong themes of friendship and character development, appealing to both younger and older players. However, it faces criticism for predictable tropes, clichés, and a slow pacing that can diminish engagement. While enjoyable for newcomers, the story's lack of depth may disappoint long-time fans. Overall, it's a mixed bag—charming yet simplistic.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

42%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

55%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The story of Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin has garnered a range of opinions, with several critics highlighting its engaging themes and character development. For instance, MeuPlayStation praised the narrative for being engaging and filled with interesting twists, while Cubed3 noted the strong character development that elevates it beyond a typical monster battle RPG. Critics like RPGamer and Everyeye.it also emphasized the emotional depth and maturity of the story, suggesting that it resonates well with both younger and older audiences. The narrative's focus on friendship, bonds with monsters, and the protagonist's journey to uncover the truth behind the mysterious events in the game world were seen as positive elements that contribute to a heartfelt experience. However, a significant number of reviews pointed out the story's shortcomings, particularly its reliance on clichés and predictable tropes. BaziCenter and GameWatcher specifically criticized the narrative for being simple and lacking creativity, with GameWatcher mentioning that it lacks standout characters. Many critics echoed this sentiment, with Screen Rant and Player 2 stating that the main story is not particularly engaging and feels like a rehash of familiar narratives from the franchise. Additionally, some reviewers, like Gamer.no and Gaming Nexus, noted that the pacing starts slowly and can feel repetitive, which detracts from the overall engagement of the story. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Monster Hunter Stories 2 features a charming and heartfelt narrative with themes of friendship and adventure, it struggles with predictability and a lack of depth. Critics such as IGN Italia and Windows Central acknowledged that the story is accessible for newcomers but may not offer enough for those familiar with the series. The game appears to be a mixed bag; it has its strengths in character development and emotional moments, as highlighted by RPG Fan, yet it also suffers from a simplistic and cliché-driven plot that may leave some players wanting more.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin impresses with its strategic turn-based combat and addictive monster-collecting mechanics, earning positive reviews for its depth and exploration in a more expansive world. However, criticisms arise over repetitive battles and simplistic elements, leading to occasional boredom. Overall, it’s a solid sequel that balances complexity and accessibility, appealing to both casual and veteran players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

80%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

20%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin has garnered a largely positive reception from critics, highlighting its engaging turn-based combat system and strategic depth. Many reviewers, such as God is a Geek and Nintendojo, praised the rock-paper-scissors mechanic that adds layers of strategy, allowing players to adapt their tactics based on the strengths and weaknesses of their monsters. The game’s emphasis on monster collection and customization, particularly through mechanics like egg-hatching and the Rite of Channeling, has been noted as addictive and rewarding, with critics like Digital Trends and Softpedia emphasizing how these elements enhance the overall experience. Furthermore, the exploration aspect has been recognized as a significant feature, with a larger open world compared to its predecessor, which has been appreciated by critics like PLAY! Zine and Hey Poor Player. However, despite the overall praise, several critics pointed out issues that detract from the gameplay experience. Many reviewers, including Gaming Nexus and Wccftech, noted that the turn-based combat can become tedious over time, particularly against simpler enemies, leading to repetitive battles. Critics like IGN and Gamer.no echoed this sentiment, mentioning that while the combat system is engaging, it can feel overly simplistic and may lack the excitement found in the mainline Monster Hunter series. Furthermore, the exploration aspect, while expansive, has also been criticized for leading to moments of boredom due to repetitive fetch quests and exploration mechanics, as highlighted by GameMAG and Worth Playing. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin successfully builds upon its predecessor with a solid gameplay foundation that appeals to both casual and seasoned players. While there are valid concerns regarding repetitiveness and the simplicity of certain mechanics, the game’s strategic depth, engaging combat system, and rich monster-collecting elements have resonated positively with the majority of reviewers. As noted by GamingBolt and Multiplayer.it, the gameplay excels in its complexity and accessibility, making it a worthwhile experience for fans of the genre.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin dazzles with its vibrant, anime-like art style and imaginative world design, winning over many critics. However, it faces harsh backlash for performance issues and outdated graphics, especially on the Nintendo Switch. While some reviewers praise its colorful aesthetics, others bemoan repetitive environments and technical shortcomings that hinder the overall experience. In short, the game offers a charming visual feast marred by significant graphical flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

56%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

44%

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 2: Wings of Ruin have garnered a mix of praise and criticism from various reviewers. Many critics have highlighted the game's vibrant, colorful art style, which is often described as charming and reminiscent of anime. For instance, Pocket Tactics noted the beautiful cel-shaded visuals that resemble an animated show, while Player 2 emphasized the exaggerated style that showcases the unique quirks of each monster. Critics like IGN and Nintendo Life also commended the imaginative world design and colorful scenery, which contribute positively to the overall aesthetic experience. Furthermore, SpazioGames pointed out improvements from the previous title, with more realistic character models and a vibrant world, indicating that the game has made strides in visual presentation. However, the negative aspects of the graphics and visual design cannot be overlooked. A significant number of reviewers, particularly those who played on the Nintendo Switch, expressed disappointment with the game's performance and graphical fidelity. BaziCenter criticized the repetitive environments and lack of detail, while Metro GameCentral described the graphics as reminiscent of Pokémon Sword/Shield, suggesting a step back in quality compared to Monster Hunter Rise. Critics like AusGamers and God is a Geek echoed these sentiments, noting that the visuals feel outdated and lack polish, with frame rate drops and bland environments detracting from the overall experience. The technical limitations of the Switch were a recurring theme, with many reviewers mentioning that the game suffers from performance issues, particularly during cutscenes and complex scenes. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin has a vibrant and charming art style that appeals to many, it also faces significant criticism regarding its graphical performance and design quality, particularly on the Nintendo Switch. The game has been recognized for its colorful aesthetic and engaging character designs, as noted by Gamer.nl and But Why Tho?, but the technical shortcomings highlighted by critics like VGC and Malditos Nerds suggest that the visual experience is inconsistent. Ultimately, the game presents a mixed bag of visual appeal and technical limitations, leaving players with a sense of both enjoyment and frustration regarding its graphics.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin features a praised orchestral soundtrack that enhances gameplay, but critics lament the lack of ambient music during exploration, leaving the experience feeling sparse. Voice acting has drawn mixed reviews, especially for the character Navirou, and some find the music repetitive and unmemorable. Overall, while the sound design shows promise, it struggles to deliver a fully immersive auditory experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

61%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

36%

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 2: Wings of Ruin have garnered a range of opinions from critics, with several praising the quality and variety of the musical score. Many reviewers, such as Everyeye.it and Vandal, highlighted the soundtrack as exceptional, featuring memorable tracks that enhance the gaming experience. Critics like TierraGamer and PlaySense noted that the orchestrated soundtrack complements the gameplay and effectively captures the essence of the Monster Hunter series. Additionally, Nintenderos appreciated the unique themes for each area and engaging battle music, while CGMagazine described the music and voice acting as superb, contributing positively to the overall experience. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the sound design and music, particularly concerning the lack of ambient music during exploration. Reviewers such as IGN France and GamingTrend expressed disappointment that the game feels sparse outside of battles, detracting from the overall experience. The voice acting has also faced scrutiny, with TheGamer and VGC criticizing the quality of certain character voices, particularly Navirou, whose puns were described as grating. Furthermore, GameStar pointed out the repetitiveness of the music, likening it to "elevator music," which some critics, like NintendoWorldReport, echoed by describing the music as mostly unmemorable. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates a mixed reception for the sound design and music in Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin. While many praised the quality of the soundtrack and its ability to enhance the game's atmosphere, others pointed out significant shortcomings, particularly the lack of ambient music during exploration and inconsistent voice acting. Critics like GamingBolt and Hobby Consolas acknowledged the strengths of the audio-visual elements while also noting the disappointing aspects, suggesting that while the game has a solid foundation in sound design, it ultimately falls short in creating a consistently immersive auditory experience.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin boasts strong voice acting that enhances storytelling and emotional immersion, praised by many critics for its quality and dual language options. However, the silent protagonist and divisive character Navirou—whose humor can be grating—create a mixed reception, with some feeling less engaged in the narrative. Overall, while the voice performances shine, they come with notable drawbacks.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

36%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

57%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin has received a generally positive reception among critics, with many praising the distinct character voices that enhance the storytelling experience. Reviewers from outlets like Areajugones and Atomix noted that the voice acting, available in both English and Japanese, contributes significantly to the game's charm and narrative depth. CGMagazine highlighted the superb quality of the voice performances, while Gamer.nl and Nintendo Life emphasized how the voice acting adds emotional impact and immersion to the gameplay. The dual audio support was also appreciated, as it allows players to choose their preferred language, further enriching the overall experience. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the voice acting, particularly concerning the game's silent protagonist and the character Navirou, a feline companion. Critics from ComicBook and Comicbook.com expressed that Navirou's role can be divisive, with some finding his voice and humor irritating. Several reviews pointed out that the silent protagonist limits character interactions and storytelling, with GamingTrend and PC Games mentioning how this design choice can make players feel like mere bystanders in the narrative. Additionally, some critics, like Gamer.no and Screen Rant, echoed concerns about Navirou's excessive puns and voice, which detracted from the overall enjoyment of the game. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while the voice acting in Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin is largely well-executed and enhances the game's charm, the presence of a silent protagonist and the polarizing character of Navirou create a mixed experience. Many reviewers, such as Hardcore Gamer and Vandal, acknowledged the strong performances that contribute positively to character engagement, but they also recognized that certain elements, particularly Navirou's humor, could detract from the immersion. Thus, while the voice acting is a strong point of the game, it is not without its flaws, leading to a nuanced reception that balances praise with criticism.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin falters on the Nintendo Switch with major frame rate drops and graphical issues, making it the least favorable option. Critics praise the PC version for its smooth performance and high frame rates, while the PS4 offers a better experience than the Switch, despite some minor glitches. Overall, for a polished gaming experience, players should opt for PC or PS4 over the struggling Switch version.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

17%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

78%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

Positive Aspects of Technical Performance Across Platforms Overall, the technical performance of Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin varies significantly across platforms. The Nintendo Switch version, while facing substantial criticism, still has some positives; critics like Cubed3 noted that it runs smoothly without significant technical issues aside from minor graphical glitches. Additionally, some reviewers, such as ComicBook, mentioned that the game performs better in docked mode compared to handheld, suggesting that players can still enjoy a decent experience in certain conditions. On the other hand, the PC version has garnered praise for its performance, with multiple critics like RPG Site and Windows Central highlighting its smooth operation and high frame rates, even on modest hardware. The PS4 version also received commendations, with critics like Push Square and Gamers' Temple noting improvements in technical performance over the Switch version, enhancing the overall experience. Negative Aspects of Technical Performance Across Platforms Despite some positives, the Nintendo Switch version of the game is plagued by numerous technical issues that have been widely reported by critics. Game Rant and SpazioGames both pointed out significant frame rate drops, particularly in major hub areas, which adversely affect gameplay. Malditos Nerds and GamingTrend echoed these sentiments, emphasizing how the fluctuating frame rates and performance issues detract from the overall experience. Critics like Vandal and Univers Nintendo highlighted low-quality textures and limited draw distances, further compounding the negative perception of the Switch version. In contrast, while the PS4 version has been generally well-received, it does experience some texture pop-in and minor frame rate drops, as noted by GamingBolt, though these issues are considered minor compared to the Switch's problems. The PC version, while performing well, does have occasional fluctuations in frame rates, but these do not significantly disrupt gameplay, according to Wccftech. Overall Consensus of Critics on Technical Performance The overall consensus among critics is that the Nintendo Switch version of Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin struggles significantly with technical performance, with many reviewers noting frame rate instability, long loading times, and graphical issues that detract from the experience. Critics like Checkpoint Gaming and CGMagazine pointed out that these performance issues are particularly noticeable in crowded areas and during cutscenes. In stark contrast, the PC version is widely regarded as the optimal choice for players seeking a smooth experience, while the PS4 version offers a middle ground with some improvements over the Switch but still has its share of minor issues. Ultimately, while the game has its merits, the technical performance on the Switch has left many critics disappointed, leading to a general recommendation for players to consider the PC or PS4 versions for a more polished experience.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin impresses with substantial replay value thanks to diverse content like Dungeon Exploration quests and multiplayer modes, offering over 50 hours of engaging gameplay. Critics praise its addictive mechanics and customization but warn of repetitive dungeons and predictable combat that may dampen long-term interest, especially for hardcore RPG fans. Overall, it's a rich experience for casual players, balancing charm with some notable limitations.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

59%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

41%

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 2: Wings of Ruin is largely positive, with many critics highlighting the extensive content available to players. Gfinity notes the inclusion of Dungeon Exploration quests, Battle Challenges, and a Versus mode, which provide diverse gameplay options. Similarly, Everyeye.it emphasizes the game's significant depth, offering over 50 hours of gameplay and a variety of monsters and equipment. Critics like Digital Trends and Game Informer also commend the wealth of side quests, arena battles, and multiplayer options that enhance replayability. The addictive monster hatching loop and customization mechanics mentioned by Softpedia and BaziCenter further contribute to the game's appeal, suggesting that players can enjoy multiple playthroughs without feeling the grind. However, several critics point out limitations that may hinder long-term engagement. Wccftech expresses concerns about the repetitive nature of dungeons and combat mechanics, which could lead to diminished interest over time. PLAY! Zine echoes this sentiment, stating that while the game is enjoyable, some players might find it predictable and repetitive. NME also mentions that exploration can become monotonous, particularly for those who prefer faster-paced gameplay. Critics like MGG Spain and PC Games highlight that, despite the game's enjoyable aspects, certain elements may not sustain replay value for all players, suggesting that the experience may not be as fulfilling for hardcore RPG fans. The overall consensus among critics indicates that while Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin offers substantial replay value through its diverse content and engaging mechanics, there are notable concerns regarding repetitiveness and predictability. Critics such as VGC and TrueGaming recognize the game's enjoyable experience for casual players, while others like GamingBolt and PC Games acknowledge the depth that could encourage replayability. Ultimately, the game seems to cater well to fans of the genre and those seeking a rich, albeit occasionally repetitive, experience, with many reviewers suggesting that the game's charm and variety can keep players engaged despite its limitations.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

79%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

21%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment surrounding Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its engaging gameplay and accessibility. Reviewers like Atomix and Game Informer highlight the game as an excellent entry point for newcomers to the Monster Hunter series, emphasizing its fun mechanics and charming visuals. Critics from Gamer.nl and GamingBolt also commend the game's ability to blend elements from both Monster Hunter and traditional JRPGs, making it appealing to a wide audience. The addictive gameplay loop and the joy of hatching and maxing out Monsties are frequently mentioned as standout features, with PLAY! Zine noting the improvements over its predecessor, and Hardcore Gamer declaring it a must-have for both fans and newcomers. However, the game is not without its flaws, as many critics point out issues related to pacing and repetitiveness. For instance, Gaming Nexus and GameMAG mention that the gameplay can feel slow and monotonous over extended play sessions, which may deter some players. Additionally, the story is often described as clichéd or weak, with critics like GameMAG and RPG Site expressing disappointment in its narrative depth. Technical limitations, particularly on the Nintendo Switch, are also highlighted by several reviewers, including Metro GameCentral and SpazioGames, who note that the graphics could have been pushed further. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among reviewers is that Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin is a solid and enjoyable title, particularly for fans of the genre. Critics like WellPlayed and Nintendo Enthusiast assert that the game offers a compelling experience with plenty of content, while others, such as Cubed3 and Windows Central, emphasize its high quality and recommend it to both JRPG fans and newcomers. Many reviews suggest that while the game has its shortcomings, it successfully delivers an engaging experience that charms players, making it a worthwhile addition to the Monster Hunter franchise.

TL;DR

Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin garners strong positive reviews for its engaging gameplay, accessibility, and charming visuals, making it a great entry point for newcomers. Critics praise the addictive mechanics and the blend of Monster Hunter and JRPG elements, with many highlighting improvements over its predecessor. However, issues like pacing, repetitiveness, and a clichéd story detract from the experience, alongside technical limitations on the Switch. Overall, it remains a solid title that charms players and is recommended for genre fans and newcomers alike.

MONSTER

Reviews

188 reviews found

100

App Trigger

Nintendo Switch

Jul 7, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The reviewer highly recommends the game, stating it is complete and fun, appealing even to those who are not fans of the Monster Hunter series.

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100

Gamer Escape

Nintendo Switch

Jul 12, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin is an excellent RPG with fun gameplay, a well-crafted story, impressive graphics, and wonderful music. It offers a refreshing departure from traditional Monster Hunter games and is highly recommended for Switch and Steam users.

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100

Nintendojo

Nintendo Switch

Jul 12, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Monster Hunter Stories 2 is a unique and charming game that offers a satisfying blend of story and gameplay, making it a worthy experience for fans of the franchise.

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TierraGamer

Nintendo Switch

Aug 16, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Monster Hunter Stories 2 is highly recommended for fans of RPGs and those who enjoy games like Pokémon, praised for its engaging story, accessible gameplay, and attention to detail.

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God is a Geek

PlayStation 4

Jun 13, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Overall, Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin is a fantastic adventure that fans of the franchise will enjoy, with engaging gameplay and beautiful visuals.

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RPG Fan

PlayStation 4

Jun 14, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin exceeds expectations with its engaging story, strategic gameplay, and vibrant visuals, making it a delightful experience.

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Gaming Age

Nintendo Switch

Jul 7, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin is recommended and considered one of the reviewer's favorite Switch games of the year so far.

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Video Chums

Nintendo Switch

Jul 7, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin is a top-notch RPG with a challenging battle system, enjoyable exploration, and a heartwarming story.

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WellPlayed

Jul 8, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin is a standout JRPG that breaks past typical genre expectations, offering a compelling story, engaging gameplay, and beautiful visuals. It is highly recommended for players.

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Noisy Pixel

Nintendo Switch

Jul 7, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin is an amazing JRPG that successfully builds on the original and offers an exceptional monster collecting experience combined with a great story.

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