Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin is a turn-based RPG developed for the Nintendo Switch that combines monster collection with strategic combat in the Monster Hunter universe. Players take on the role of a Rider who hatches and bonds with Monsties, creatures raised from eggs found in monster dens. The game emphasizes exploration across varied environments, part-breaking mechanics during fights, and a rock-paper-scissors attack system that rewards prediction and timing.
Gameplay
Combat unfolds in turns where both the Rider and their Monstie act each round. Attacks fall into three categories: Power, Technical, and Speed. These follow a cycle where Power overcomes Technical, Technical overcomes Speed, and Speed overcomes Power. When the player and an enemy target one another, a Head-to-Head resolves the clash based on the chosen types. Matching the winning type with both Rider and Monstie triggers a Double Attack that cancels the enemy's response entirely.
Players equip weapons across six types divided into slash, blunt, and pierce damage categories. These influence how quickly specific monster body parts break during battle. Breaking parts alters enemy behavior and improves rewards. Kinship Points accumulate over turns and unlock skills or a Kinship Strike, during which the Rider mounts the Monstie for a powerful ability. Monsties also provide field abilities for navigation, such as temporary invisibility or smashing obstacles.
Exploration involves traveling on foot or with Monsties, entering dens to collect eggs, and managing a party that includes the Rider, primary Monstie, and Buddies for support. The system encourages matching Monstie attack tendencies to enemy patterns for efficient victories.
Game Modes
The core experience centers on a single-player story campaign that guides players through regions filled with quests, monster encounters, and egg collection. Battles occur in both random encounters and scripted events, with the option to target parts or use environmental advantages.
Post-launch free title updates introduced additional co-op quests that allow limited multiplayer participation alongside the main single-player structure. These quests focus on specific objectives like exploration or slaying particular monsters and became available in stages after the initial release.
Exploration and Progression
Progression ties directly to hatching stronger Monsties, upgrading equipment, and learning new skills through repeated battles. The world features distinct biomes that reward careful scouting and use of Monstie traits to reach hidden areas or avoid unnecessary fights. Part-breaking and damage-type matching add layers to every encounter beyond simple level grinding.
Players manage resources gained from battles to craft and improve gear, while story events gradually expand the roster of available Monsties and abilities.
Is It Worth Playing?
Reviews from 2021 onward highlight the combat depth and visual presentation as strengths, with many noting the satisfying Head-to-Head system and Monstie variety. Some players mention the turn-based pace feels deliberate rather than fast, which suits those who enjoy planning over reflex-based action. The game received consistent praise for its soundtrack and monster designs.
Free updates added new monsters such as Oroshi Kirin, Soulseer Mizutsune, and Elderfrost Gammoth along with co-op content, extending playtime for those who completed the base campaign. It remains available on Nintendo Switch with no ongoing seasonal content or live-service elements. The title suits players interested in monster-taming RPGs who appreciate strategic battles and steady exploration over high-speed action.
