A story about Riders, not Hunters
Monster Hunter Stories is a turn-based RPG where you play as a Rider instead of a Hunter. You grow up in a village of Riders who raise monsters for a living, then leave to adventure in the world of Hunters. The two groups live very differently, and you have to find a way to work together. A calamity called the Black Blight then threatens everything, and the Kinship Stone and the Legend of Redan hold the answers. The game is fully voiced in Japanese and English.
Battles built on reading your opponent
Combat is turn-based and uses Power, Speed, and Technical attacks. You try to guess what your opponent will use and pick the matching attack to win the clash and deal heavy damage. Building the Kinship Gauge unlocks skills and your Monsties' Kinship Skills. The system is easy to pick up even if you do not usually play action games.
Raising Monsties and playing with friends
You hatch eggs found in the field to turn monsters into Monsties, including Zinogre, Nargacuga, and Lagiacrus. Monstie abilities also help you explore. The Rite of Channeling awakens dormant abilities so you can raise your own Monsties and take on stronger enemies. Online PvP lets you build a party from the Monsties you have raised and battle other players.
What this version includes
This release comes with all updates from the original game, adding monsters like Kushala Daora, Teostra, and Rajang, plus expanded endgame content and extra character editing parts. A museum mode holds over 200 pieces of concept art and numerous music tracks, some in surround sound. Note that this game is also sold in bundles with Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin, so check what you already own before buying.