INTRODUCTION
In the beginning, the lead characters, alongside their pals Cheval and Lilia, purloin a Ratha egg from a woodland retreat. But their homecoming is marred by a catastrophic event—an enraged Nargacuga tainted by a disorder known as Black Blight ravages their village and tragically snuffs out the lives of Cheval’s parents. The player’s Ratha springs into action, defending the hamlet but losing its life. Fast forward a year, and the village has restored peace, but the looming shadow of Black Blight-infected beasts persists. Armed with the Kinship Ore, a mystical crystal with the power to tame wild monsters, you, the main character, launch an expedition to conquer the Black Blight.
THE EARLY DARING EGG HEIST
The action kicks off with a daring egg swipe! You and your squad—Cheval and Lilia—are no ordinary kids. You’ve got the guts to steal a Ratha egg from its comfy nest in the forest. It’s like Ocean’s Eleven but with dragon eggs and fewer tuxedos. But beware, the Universe has its way of balancing the scales. When you all return to your village, delighted about your new scaly acquisition, you discover it under assault by a Nargacuga suffering from the plague known as Black Blight. And that’s not all; this event ends in a Shakespearean tragedy for Cheval, as his parents fall victim to the diseased monster.
THE PRICE OF HEROISM
Time for some action, right? Cue the sad trombone because your Ratha gallantly steps up to protect the village but doesn’t survive the skirmish. It’s like the Alamo, except instead of a fort, it’s a village, and instead of Texan rebels, it’s a bunch of kids and their fire-breathing pets. This episode serves as a stark reminder that even the mightiest heroes can fall, especially when up against the almost demonic powers of Black Blight.
A YEAR OF PEACE… KINDA
A year passes by, as years are known to do, especially when the scriptwriters want to skip to the good part. Your village finds peace, but don’t crack open the non-alcoholic champagne. The creatures marinated in Black Blight are still out there, probably plotting their comeback tour. Thankfully, you get your hands on the Kinship Ore, a dazzling crystal that makes taming ferocious beasts look like convincing a kitten to play with yarn.
EMBARKING ON THE ULTIMATE QUEST
So you strap on your boots, possibly give a teary farewell to your pixelated mom, and embark on an expedition to end the Black Blight menace. As you wander through expanses of breathtaking landscapes, you’re not just in it for the sightseeing. You’re on a quest to gather human and monster allies who will stand by your side in this titanic struggle. You become a sort of “beast whisperer,” with the Kinship Ore allowing you to tame wild monsters—a helpful skill when you need a lift or some heavy monster artillery.
THE THRILL OF THE TURN-BASED BATTLE
For those who think battles should have referees and time-outs, you’re in luck! Monster Hunter Stories employs a turn-based battle system. It’s like a game of rock-paper-scissors but with more fireballs and razor-sharp claws. You’ll exercise your strategic prowess as you control your character and your tamed beasts in the ring. Trust us; it’s as fun as navigating a labyrinth blindfolded while juggling—only way cooler.
EGGS, FRIENDSHIP, AND THE JOURNEY AHEAD
And let’s not forget about the egg-napping. Remember how this all began? Yes, with an egg heist! As you journey forward, you can collect and hatch more eggs, making friends with many monsters. These aren’t just for show; they help you traverse landscapes and serve as your battle wingmen. And isn’t that what life’s all about? Making friends in unexpected places—even if some of those friends happen to have scales and breathe fire.
So there you have it. Whether you’re in it for the drama, the strategy, or just the sheer joy of owning a collection of powerful monsters, Monster Hunter Stories for the 3DS offers a delightful blend of elements that can keep you engaged for hours. Now go forth, young tamer, and may your Kinship Ore shine ever bright!
