Providing new opportunities to explore a world full of elaborate beasts, Nintendo have announced they will be publishing Capcom’s Monster Hunter Generations on the Nintendo 3DS starting later this year. They hope to provide “the deepest, most customisable experience yet” when it comes to the long-lived franchise which began on the PlayStation 2 back in 2004.
In a new addition to the franchise, players will be able to change up how they play with distinct Hunter Styles and unique special abilities known as Hunter Arts. With Hunter Styles players can now tailor their chosen hunter to how they want to play by selecting from four very different styles. Whether it’s focusing on mounting monsters by selecting Aerial Style, or maximising the Hunter Arts abilities that can be equipped with the Striker Style, there’s a way of play to suit every player. Each Hunter Style possesses unique movements and attacks only available to that particular style, encouraging players to experiment and find the perfect fit for how they want to play with each of the game’s 14 weapon types. A new trailer, available at the top of this post, highlights the different styles.
Hunter Arts on the other hand are special moves which can help turn the tide of a battle. Some skills will provide an offensive flurry of hits, some might provide an efficient means of escape or others might even heal your teammates. When combined with Hunter Styles, you might end up with some interesting combinations.
As well as mastering the new additions to playing as a Hunter, players can take on quests as a Felyne in the new Prowler mode. These loyal, furry companions now get to take a starring role as they can be directly controlled by players and set out on any of the game’s quests in single or multiplayer game modes, plus a selection of unique quests especially designed for them. Players can switch into Prowler mode quickly and easily from their house, can take two Palico supports with them on quests, and even join other hunters in local and online co-op modes.
Prowlers benefit from boundless energy, meaning they have no need for a Well Done Steak to replenish their stamina gauge. By already carrying their own supply of health-replenishing Acorns, Prowlers can restore their health with a quick bite and don’t need to carry potions like Hunters. Resource-gathering such as bug-catching, fishing and mining is also simpler than ever when playing as a Prowler, allowing advanced players to channel more time into hunting quests or forging and upgrading the hundreds of weapons and armour available to them. With their streamlined gameplay mechanics, general ease of use and the ability to participate in any of the game’s single or multiplayer quests, Prowlers are a perfect introduction for newcomers and the ideal tonic for battle-hardened hunters seeking something a little different.
Monster Hunter Generations also includes a plethora of new monsters to go up against. This includes an elite group of powerful enemies known as the “Fated Four”, which pose a major threat to each of the game’s four villages. While there are some new enemies in its ranks, they have noted that a few favourite monsters will be returning.
Monster Hunter Generations will support the older generation of Nintendo 3DS units, however those equipped with a New Nintendo 3DS will be able to benefit from C-Stick functionality and mappable controls on the ZL and ZR buttons. These could potentially help out considerably should you find yourself in a bind.
Developed by Capcom and published by Nintendo, Monster Hunter Generations will be available on the Nintendo 3DS starting sometime in Winter 2016.
