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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

PlatformNintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PC, Xbox Series X, Xbox One

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 boasts engaging characters and emotional depth, appealing to fans and newcomers alike with themes of friendship and adventure. However, critics panned its predictable, cliché-driven narrative and slow pacing, ultimately deeming it formulaic and lacking depth. Despite its potential, the game struggles to fully capitalize on its story, resulting in a mixed reception.

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 received a mix of positive feedback from critics, particularly regarding its engaging characters and emotional depth. Many reviewers, such as Everyeye.it and Noisy Pixel, praised the narrative for being mature and appealing to a wide audience, with themes of friendship and adventure that resonate well. Critics like GameStar noted that the story's strength lies in its heartwarming elements and the relationships it explores, reminiscent of animated films like How to Train Your Dragon. Additionally, several reviews highlighted the game's ability to create an accessible narrative for newcomers while still offering nostalgia for fans of the original, as pointed out by Eurogamer Italy and Wccftech. However, the consensus among critics indicates significant weaknesses in the story's execution. Many reviewers, including IGN Deutschland and Gamer.no, criticized the narrative for being weak, predictable, and lacking engaging twists. The reliance on familiar tropes and clichés was noted by critics like Game Rant and GameWatcher, who mentioned that the characters often fail to shine or stand out. Additionally, the pacing of the story was pointed out as an issue, with some critics, such as Gameblog.fr and TrueGaming, mentioning that the narrative starts slowly and can become repetitive, leading to a disjointed experience. Overall, while Monster Hunter Stories 2 presents a narrative filled with potential and emotional moments, it struggles with predictability and a lack of depth, as highlighted by multiple reviewers. Critics like GamingBolt and RPGamer acknowledged the engaging aspects of the story but also pointed out its formulaic structure and reliance on established lore. The game seems to appeal to fans of the franchise and newcomers alike, but many agree that it does not fully capitalize on its narrative potential, leading to a mixed reception overall.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin impresses with its engaging turn-based combat and monster-collecting mechanics, praised for strategic depth and accessibility. Critics highlight the fun customization and exploration elements but note issues with repetitive battles and pacing that can dampen the experience. Overall, while it has flaws, the game successfully builds on its predecessor, delivering an enjoyable adventure for both newcomers and genre veterans.

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 received a largely positive reception from critics, highlighting its engaging turn-based combat system and monster-collecting mechanics. Many reviewers, such as GameSpot and Nintendo Life, praised the rock-paper-scissors mechanic that adds depth to battles, making it accessible for newcomers while still offering strategic challenges for seasoned players. The ability to customize monstie skills and the depth of party building were also frequently mentioned as strong points, with critics like Switch Player and Nintendo Enthusiast noting the satisfaction derived from monster management and exploration. The exploration elements were described as enjoyable, providing a sense of adventure that complements the combat experience. However, several critics pointed out notable drawbacks that detract from the overall enjoyment of the gameplay. Reviewers from Gaming Nexus and RPGamer expressed concerns about the repetitive nature of battles and fetch quests, which can lead to a sense of tedium over time. Critics like Wccftech and GameMAG mentioned that while the turn-based combat system is appealing, it can become tedious due to its simplicity against less challenging enemies. Additionally, the pacing of the game was criticized by some, including MeuPlayStation, who noted that world exploration could feel tedious and slow, affecting the overall flow of the gameplay experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin offers a solid and enjoyable gameplay experience, particularly for fans of turn-based RPGs. While there are criticisms regarding repetitiveness and pacing, the majority of reviewers, such as IGN Deutschland and Nintendojo, emphasized the game's strengths in strategic combat and monster collection. The game successfully builds on its predecessor's foundation, providing an engaging experience that appeals to both newcomers and veterans of the genre. Ultimately, despite some flaws, the gameplay is viewed as a compelling aspect of the title, contributing to its positive reception in the gaming community.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin impresses with its vibrant cel-shaded visuals and engaging character designs, earning praise for its artistic direction and immersive world. Critics highlight the game's charm and animated series-like aesthetics. However, performance issues plague the Nintendo Switch version, with complaints about repetitive environments, frame rate drops, and inferior detail compared to the PC version. While the game shines visually on stronger platforms, significant drawbacks on the Switch leave a mixed impression overall.

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 overall sentiment regarding the graphics and visual design of Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin showcases a blend of appreciation for its artistic direction and aesthetic appeal, particularly in the cel-shaded anime style. Critics like Shacknews and Nintendo Enthusiast commend the vibrant and colorful art style, highlighting the engaging character designs and well-executed monster visuals that enhance the game's charm. Many reviewers, including Pocket Tactics and Noisy Pixel, note the lush environments and immersive world, with some even likening the visuals to an animated series. The game is praised for its imaginative world design, making exploration enjoyable, as highlighted by IGN and Player 2. However, the criticisms surrounding the graphics are significant, particularly regarding performance issues and hardware limitations. Multiple reviewers, including BaziCenter and Metro GameCentral, express disappointment with the repetitive environments and lack of detail, especially on the Nintendo Switch. Critics like COGconnected and VGC mention frame rate drops and lag during gameplay, which detracts from the overall experience. Additionally, some critics, including VG247 and Merlin'in Kazanı, point out that the visuals on the Switch are less detailed compared to the PC version, indicating a disparity in quality across platforms. The overall consensus among critics is that while Monster Hunter Stories 2 features a visually appealing art style and charming character designs, it struggles with performance issues, particularly on the Nintendo Switch. Reviewers like SpazioGames and Gaming Nexus acknowledge improvements in visual design compared to its predecessor, but many also highlight the sacrifices made due to hardware constraints. Despite these drawbacks, the game is generally regarded as a visually enjoyable experience, especially for those playing on more powerful platforms like PC and PS4, as noted by critics such as Gamers' Temple and GamingBolt. Ultimately, the game presents a mixed bag of visual strengths and weaknesses, with a clear divide in quality based on the platform used.

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 strong soundtrack and sound design that enhance the gaming experience, praised for its adventurous tone and epic orchestral elements. However, critics noted the lack of ambient music during exploration and mixed reviews on voice acting, particularly for certain characters. While the music is engaging, some find it unmemorable compared to the original game, leading to a nuanced reception that highlights both strengths and areas for improvement.

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 generally positive reception among critics, highlighting several strengths that enhance the gaming experience. Many reviewers, such as Nintendo Life and Everyeye.it, praised the soundtrack for its quality and variety, noting that it effectively captures the adventurous tone of the game. Critics like GameGrin and Vandal emphasized the memorable themes and engaging battle music, which contribute to the overall immersion. The orchestral elements, as mentioned by CGMagazine, add a layer of epicness to the gameplay, while the sound effects complement animations and enhance the experience without being intrusive, as noted by PC Games and Worth Playing. The positive remarks about the voice acting, particularly in the English version, further support the game's auditory appeal. Despite the strengths, several critics pointed out notable weaknesses in the sound design and music. A recurring critique is the lack of ambient music during exploration phases, which many reviewers, including IGN France and Windows Central, felt detracted from the experience. The voice acting received mixed reviews; while some praised it, others, like TheGamer and VGC, criticized specific characters, particularly Navirou, for their grating puns and delivery. Additionally, some critics, such as GameOver.gr and NintendoWorldReport, described the music as unmemorable or lacking the imaginative flair of the original game, indicating that while the soundtrack is adequate, it may not leave a lasting impression. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin features a solid audio experience with commendable music and sound design, it is marred by certain shortcomings in voice acting and the absence of ambient music during exploration. Critics like Hobby Consolas and Gamer Escape highlight the game's ability to enhance storytelling through its sound, yet the critiques regarding specific elements suggest that there is room for improvement. The mixed opinions on voice acting and the repetitive nature of some music tracks reveal a divide in how the auditory components resonate with players, ultimately leading to a nuanced reception of the game's sound design and music.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The voice acting in Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin is largely praised for enhancing storytelling and character engagement, with strong performances in both English and Japanese. However, criticisms exist regarding the silent protagonist and the polarizing comedic character Navirou, whose humor divides opinions and can disrupt the narrative flow. Overall, while the voice acting enriches the game, it highlights areas for improvement in character development and dialogue cohesion.

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 been generally praised by critics, highlighting its contribution to the game's storytelling and character engagement. Reviewers like Areajugones and Atomix commend the distinct voices that enhance the overall narrative experience, while CGMagazine describes the voice acting as superb, emphasizing its role in enriching character interactions. Many critics, including Gamer.nl and Nintendo Life, note that the quality of voice acting adds emotional depth and charm to the game, with the dual audio support in both English and Japanese being a significant positive feature, as noted by Gameblog.fr and Noisy Pixel. However, not all opinions are favorable, particularly concerning specific characters and design choices. Critics such as ComicBook and Comicbook.com express concerns about the silent protagonist, which some feel limits the storytelling potential. Additionally, the character Navirou, who serves as a comedic sidekick, has garnered mixed reactions. While some appreciate his humor, others, including Screen Rant and Game Rant, find his voice and puns annoying, suggesting that he detracts from the overall experience. This sentiment is echoed by critics like GamingTrend and Gamer.no, who point out that his presence can be grating and disrupt the narrative flow. 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, it is not without its flaws. The dual voice acting options are a highlight, allowing players to choose their preferred experience, but the silent protagonist and the polarizing character Navirou create a divide in reception. Critics like Hardcore Gamer and Vandal appreciate the strong performances and emotional impact, yet the criticisms regarding Navirou's role and the silent protagonist suggest that the voice acting, while generally good, could have benefited from more cohesive character development and dialogue.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin shines on PC and PS4 with smooth performance and minimal issues, but the Nintendo Switch version falters with frequent frame rate drops, input lag, and graphical glitches. Critics agree: for the best experience, skip the Switch and opt for PC.

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.

In analyzing the technical performance of Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin across different platforms, the feedback reveals a clear distinction between the Nintendo Switch and PC versions. The PC version is generally praised for its smooth performance, with critics such as PC Games and Press Start Australia noting stable frame rates and minimal technical issues. The game runs well even on modest hardware, as highlighted by RPG Site, indicating that players can enjoy a seamless experience without significant disruptions. The PS4 version also receives commendations, with IGN Deutschland and GGRecon reporting smooth gameplay and solid technical performance, enhancing the overall experience. Conversely, the Nintendo Switch version is consistently criticized for its technical shortcomings. Reviewers such as Malditos Nerds and GameMAG point out significant performance issues, including frequent frame rate drops that impact gameplay and cutscenes. Many critics, including Game Rant and GamingTrend, echo concerns about the game's performance in major hub areas and during battles, with frame rates reportedly dropping below 30 FPS. Issues like input lag in docked mode, as noted by PlaySense, and graphical glitches further detract from the experience, leading to a consensus that the Switch version struggles to meet modern performance standards. Overall, the sentiment among critics is clear: while the PC and PS4 versions of Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin deliver a solid and enjoyable experience, the Nintendo Switch version falls short due to persistent technical issues. Critics like Vandal and Nintendo Life emphasize that these performance problems significantly detract from the overall enjoyment of the game, particularly for players on the Switch. The disparity in performance across platforms suggests that while the game has potential, its execution on the Switch leaves much to be desired, making the PC version the recommended choice for an optimal gaming experience.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin is praised for its extensive content and replay value, with up to 150 hours for completionists, thanks to multiplayer modes and deep combat mechanics. However, concerns about quest repetitiveness and grind might dampen long-term engagement for some players. While it offers a solid experience for monster collection fans, the lack of variety in side quests and environments could lead to monotony. Overall, it’s a strong entry in the series, especially for dedicated fans.

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 for players. Reviewers like Everyeye.it and NintendoWorldReport emphasize the game's potential for significant gameplay hours, with estimates suggesting up to 150 hours for completionists. The inclusion of multiplayer modes, co-op quests, and various side activities, as noted by critics such as Digital Trends and Nintendo Life, enhances the game's replayability. Additionally, the deep combat mechanics and monster collection aspects, highlighted by GameGrin and Press Start Australia, provide players with ongoing incentives to return to the game, making it appealing for fans of the genre. However, several critics point out limitations that may hinder long-term engagement. The repetitiveness of quests and the grind associated with raising new Monsties were common concerns, as noted by Checkpoint Gaming and PLAY! Zine. Critics like MGG Spain and PC Invasion mention that the lack of engaging side quests and distinct environments may detract from the overall replay value, leading some players to feel that the game could become monotonous over time. This sentiment is echoed by others who suggest that while the core mechanics are enjoyable, they may not sustain interest for all players. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin offers a wealth of content and replay value, particularly for those who enjoy monster collection and cooperative gameplay. While many reviewers, such as Hey Poor Player and God is a Geek, affirm that the game provides a more engaging experience than its predecessor, the repetitive nature of some gameplay elements, as highlighted by critics like Vandal and IGN France, suggests that not all players may find the same level of enjoyment in returning to the game. Overall, the game is seen as a solid entry in the series with ample replay potential, especially for dedicated fans.

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 towards Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin is largely positive, with many critics praising its engaging gameplay mechanics and accessibility for newcomers to the Monster Hunter franchise. Reviewers such as God is a Geek and Gaming Nexus highlight the game's enjoyable moments, particularly in the hatching and maxing out of Monsties, while Nintendojo and PC Gamer emphasize its appealing visuals and RPG elements. Critics like Hardcore Gamer and GGRecon describe it as a joyful experience and a must-have for both fans and newcomers, indicating that the game successfully captures the essence of the Monster Hunter series while providing a unique JRPG twist. However, several reviewers have pointed out notable flaws that detract from the overall experience. Many critics, including GameMAG and Gamer.no, mention the game's clichéd story and repetitive battles, which may disappoint seasoned players. Additionally, Starbit and Vgames note performance issues and a slow-paced narrative, particularly at the beginning of the game. Critics like BaziCenter and GamingTrend also express concerns about the game’s repetitive design and mid-game tedium, suggesting that while the game is enjoyable in short bursts, it may become tiresome over extended play sessions. Despite the mixed critiques, the overall consensus among critics is that Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin is a solid entry in the franchise that appeals to both newcomers and long-time fans. Reviewers such as Game Informer and IGN highlight its accessibility and engaging gameplay, making it a recommended entry point for those unfamiliar with the series. While some technical issues and narrative shortcomings exist, the game is generally regarded as a worthy sequel that enhances the original formula, as noted by critics like Siliconera and TierraGamer. Overall, the game is celebrated for its charm, depth, and the ability to captivate players, making it a notable addition to the JRPG genre.

TL;DR

Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin receives largely positive reviews for its engaging gameplay and accessibility for newcomers, making it a must-have for fans and new players alike. Critics praise its visuals and RPG elements, though many note flaws like a clichéd story, repetitive battles, and performance issues. Despite these drawbacks, it's considered a solid sequel that captures the franchise's essence while introducing a unique JRPG twist, making it an enjoyable experience overall.

MONSTER

Reviews

187 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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