Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin

I enjoyed playing the first Monster Hunter Stories on the Nintendo 3DS and found it a cute diversion. I expected similar from its successor, but Wings of Ruin‘s narrative surprised me with its hidden depth. It’s easy to lose yourself in Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin‘s monster-collecting world, and you can become invested in the plot more than you might initially expect. I’m glad I finally had the opportunity to play it! To channel my inner Navirou, Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin is pawsitively clawdacious!

While the overall structure of the game hasn't changed, the formula worked and didn't need any major shifts. But when compared to the first Stories — which already holds up really well — the small and large enhancements to every facet of the experience make this sequel a must-play RPG for any fan of the genre, or the Monster Hunter series.

Except for making the game more widely available, the PlayStation 4 version brings almost nothing new. It is still that old, fun, and loveable game it was back in 2021, which raises the question: when can we expect the sequel?

With Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin, Capcom improved upon everything they did in the original game to give us the ultimate experience in this spin off RPG series of their successful Monster Hunter saga. The result is a very enjoyable title, full of charm and a classic feel, that is definitely worth trying out.

Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin is clear evolution of the systems of the previous game, delivering an even better story and more fun combat. It's an excellent game for fans of the franchise.

It’s about time Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin made its way onto PlayStation. I’m a bit sad that there isn’t a native PlayStation 5 port, but the current PS4 one is solid through and through. The smooth and high frame rates are a treat but the long load times leave more to be desired. If you’re looking for a party turn-based JRPG as your next game on your PlayStation, then Wings of Ruin is definitely worth checking out.

Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin is a substantial improvement over its predecessor. It features Breath of the Wild-style visuals, more accessible combat, simplified gameplay systems, and a campaign that is less demanding in terms of duration.

Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin features a deceptively complex combat system with nigh endless monster customisation options. Players can craft powerful monsters by acquiring genes through gameplay, and this system encourages players to continuously battle and collect monster eggs. The story is standard for a JRPG but is elevated by elements from the Monster Hunter universe and high-quality cutscenes. The voice acting and writing is well done, except for the character of Navirou who is a constant irritant. Overall, Monster Hunter Stories 2 offers deep gameplay for those that enjoy complex character building. The PlayStation 4 conversion is dazzling, and anyone who already played it on Nintendo Switch should consider this updated port for its improved fidelity.

After playing the first game, it is noticeable that the characters seem more lively and full of charm in the first game when compared to the sequel. The characters in the sequel are still really good, but I just favor the original game’s characters. With the sequel now being on PS5 and Steam, it is highly noticeable that the game doesn’t have slowdown during town sequences. The Switch version struggled to maintain a consistent framerate while in towns, but the PS5 version has no problem with slowdown in those areas. If you missed out on Monster Hunter Stories 2 for Switch, definitely give this game a try on PS5 or Steam. You can’t go wrong with either the first game or its sequel. Both games are just as good as the other one and have their highs and lows. For me, both of them come out as being equally good. It’s hard to recommend one over the other.

Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin blends the essence of the Monster Hunter series with the charm of a turn-based RPG. It sports a fun story, strategic gameplay, stunning visuals, and memorable characters, resulting in an excellent experience.

Monster Hunter Stories 2 isn't extraordinary by any means, but it's a charming, engaging, colourful experience that's still easy to recommend to fans of traditional JRPGs.

If Capcom’s latest Monster Hunter RPG has shown us anything, it’s that it has plenty of potential. Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin is an incredibly engaging title with an addicting gameplay loop that expertly melds pre-existing Monster Hunter into a unique JRPG title that offers far more than its predecessor. The sky’s the limit for this spinoff, and I’m looking forward to seeing just how high it can fly.

Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin offers one of the best turn based combat systems and is only held back by its lackluster storytelling.

Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin is a much-improved sequel. For the most part, it's everything you enjoyed in the first game, but with a plethora of updates, including improvements to combat and exploration. There is just something about collecting these legendary monsters and having them fight by your side that puts a smile on my face.

Graphically there is little to criticize about MH Stories 2. The game looks well cared for and runs smoothly, except for the loading between battles and the game world. All in all, Monster Hunter 2 is a great gaming experience with a lot of variety and depth for those who need it. Gotta collect them all!

Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin continues what was started in the first game, and elevates it to new heights. What was once a side attraction could well become the staple, as Wings of Ruin is simply an excellent RPG.

Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin isn’t a shining exemplar of the monster taming genre, but it does successfully mesh the iconic aesthetics of its mainline counterpart with no-fat collect and battle systems that are as easy to approach as they are satisfying to master.

It may feel like a weak alternative to a genuinely new action-based Monster Hunter game, but Wings Of Ruin still stands on its own merits as an RPG. [Issue#42, p.94]

Capcom has definitely found its footing in terms of creating a kid-friendly Monster Hunter spinoff series, as Monster Hunter Stories 2 has a lot to offer for newcomers and veterans of the series alike. While the battle system is fantastic for a younger audience, it does lack depth and can feel like quite the slog, especially late game. While the story won’t wow anyone, it is sincere in its approach that it’s hard to be disappointed in it. Monster Hunter Stories 2 is great for monster-taming fans, and those who don’t mind a slow-paced game in a gorgeous and inviting world.