Have you played Monster Hunter Stories? Or Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin? Both titles are definitely worth it and if you haven't done so yet, you'll soon have the opportunity to do so on new platforms. This definitely means more effort for part one, because it makes the jump from the 3DS to PC, PlayStation 4 and Nintendo Switch. Part two was already available for PC and Nintendo Switch, now it's coming to PS4.
You shouldn't expect any great miracles from Monster Hunter Stories 2 on the PlayStation 4, there's very little going on there. But things are definitely different with the predecessor. I was recently able to see this for myself and play both titles on the PlayStation 4.
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A lot of work
Due to the comparatively low resolution of the Nintendo 3DS, extensive work on Monster Hunter Stories was required to bring it to the new platforms. Characters and textures have been revised, voice acting in English and Japanese has been added and there are also a few gameplay adjustments. On the whole, however, it plays the way you know it from the 3DS, only with better resolution, prettier and an adapted user interface.
Although you should keep in mind that this is by no means a full remake. The remaster is more of a hit because at its core it remains similar to the original. This also applies visually, for example, to the areas outside of your camp, where the limitations caused by the 3DS hardware are still noticeable today. But well, that's probably to be expected and you shouldn't have any great illusions about it.
A worthwhile trip
If you don't know Monster Hunter Stories yet: They are just other spin-offs of the series, and they play very differently. Both are role-playing games in which the battles against monsters are turn-based. And you don't fight alone, you have your own Monsties (that's what they're called here) at your side. It feels a bit like Pokémon, but that's okay.
Each monster has its own strengths and weaknesses that need to be exploited. Both you and your Monstie can carry out attacks, and with a particularly strong bond, team attacks are also possible, which can be quite effective depending on the type and strength of the bond. In other words: it's worth it if you take good care of your Monsties and know how to use them best.
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Aside from these gameplay differences, many familiar Monster Hunter mechanics are also included. For example, you collect parts from monsters in the environment to create new weapons or armor. Although the games are aimed more at a younger audience with their colorful visuals and themes, fans who know every other Monster Hunter shouldn't be put off by them. Part two is generally a bit more challenging and you can really immerse yourself in breeding the Monsties, but if you play the first part beforehand, you'll be fine. After all, there has to be a bit of a learning curve.
For further gameplay details, I can only recommend taking a look at our previous test for Monster Hunter Stories and the test for Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin.
You can look forward to that
Developing your own character and your Monsties is what keeps you engaged in both games. And it's definitely a recommendation if you like turn-based combat and want to experience Monster Hunter in a different way. It may not be to everyone's taste, but if you get involved in a more child-friendly, colorful scenario, you can have a lot of fun. The release on the new platforms is definitely a good reason to give the series a chance. At least you've never seen the first Monster Hunter Stories prettier than here in the new edition.