Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin Review (Switch, also on PC) | Backlog Battle

[@LaLtheGaL]

Really great review, Alex. As a fan of the first Stories game, I’ve been trying to convince some people from another game community to give this game a go. They to do not understand that Stories is a much different game experience than the traditional Monster Hunter games. And since they did not enjoy the original Monster Hunter games, they are hesitant to give this a go, despite being fans of JRPG’s. I’ll point them to this video and hopefully they will get a better impression of what the game is about.

[@BacklogBattle]

I’m the same way. The mainline games can get a bit intense with lots to keep track of, and while I love the series, I don’t have a lot of time for it. I’m thankful that this game exists!

[@LaLtheGaL]

@@BacklogBattle yes, and it’s understandable that when you’re thrown a whole bunch of KZbin videos in order to grasp the basics of Monster Hunter, it can turn people away. One thing of note, that I don’t recall from your video, is that there is a HUGE demo for this game on Switch that gives you the first 10-12 hours of the game that you can carry over if you choose to purchase it.

[@Gchampion89]

Since I got a switch last Christmas, I had to wait for a sale, but I finally got it. Loved the original on the 3DS so I am looking forward to playing this after work. Great review as usual, take care

[@BacklogBattle]

So different than Arceus, but great all the same! Really ups the ante for these kinds of games! Hope you enjoy the changes!

[@HybridAngelZero]

Stories is likely to become my favorite branch of the Monster Hunter series. I love what I've played of the 3DS original, and this one looks like it'll be a complete joy. Also, that Breath of Fire shout-out warmed my heart. I hope Sega's recent success with reviving their dormant classic series shows Capcom that people still want them

[@BacklogBattle]

I was waiting for someone to bring up Breath of Fire!

[@HybridAngelZero]

@@BacklogBattle It's one of my favorite series, for sure! I'm glad the first two are on Switch with the online subscription, hopefully more people can discover the series

[@xleaselife]

Thank you again, as always, Master Alex! Your reviews never fail to deliver with respect to knowledgeable, informative breakdowns on the key tenets of a game, and do a fantastic job of making plain what works, what doesn't, and why we should care. You're the best!

[@BacklogBattle]

You’re welcome! Thank you for watching them! Let’s get the channel to 20k by year’s end!

[@Jman88933]

Dude! Although I have Monster Hunter World, i haven't really played much of it because the design of the game wasn't for me. I had absolutely no intentions of buying this game at first but when I played the demo out of curiosity, I was blown away. I love this game so much as a fan of jrpgs. Especially turn-based. Everything about this game is just so well crafted with a charming story to keep my attention! Great review!

[@BacklogBattle]

I love both styles but this one is just so easy to get in and out of! Though it was more difficult to stop playing lol

[@JeannieLove]

Awesome review! Monster Hunter is my favorite series since Zelda because of the consistent releases and I've found community in the multiplayer. The Stories series itself I love because it's everything I wished Pokemon could be, fighting alongside your monsters rather than on the back lines.

[@BacklogBattle]

It's amazing how they were able to move laterally and make a turn-based RPG that makes sense with the mechanics of the original game!

[@roynobody]

i already have the game but i really enjoy watching your reviews and hearing how you analyze games! keep it up boss!

[@BacklogBattle]

Thanks so much! How far are you in it?

[@bunnytails]

This was very informative! Thank you! It sounds like I would enjoy this game much more than the mainline Monster Hunters.

[@BacklogBattle]

I think so too! It really is a unique game with an incredible combat system and great progression. And you can play it in co-op too!

[@TheGamingShelf]

This game has been a huge, pleasant surprise for me. I did not expect to fall in love with it as much as I have. Great reviews as always and I hope more people give this game a try.

[@BacklogBattle]

It’s very charming! I’m still playing the post game!

[@ecroy121212]

Great review, hopefully this gets more people to play it, and support doesn’t slow up. I hope this game get a pretty good amount.

[@BacklogBattle]

It sold 1 million copies so far! It’s doing great!

[@shoked99]

Thanks for the review. I'm interested in this series and see part 1 is being released on the Switch soon so I can start with either.

[@ricardassteckas6620]

Thank you Alex for this amazing review. It's only because of you I started to love JRPG games and I always feel cozy while watching your reviews. I saw countless reviews of this game, yet yours are final one that made my mind if to get this game or not. Best review ever. Thanks again and keep it up 👍👍👍

[@BacklogBattle]

Thank you so much! I hope you’re enjoying the games in the genre! I want nothing but to introduce more people into genres that they might not have played before!

[@bobbusc]

I feel like the biggest misconception people have is that the combat is too simple because of the base rock, paper, scissors formula. But really it's several rock, paper, scissors games layered on top of one another which makes it easy to understand, but offers a lot of strategic depth as well.

[@BacklogBattle]

If I had spent more time on the combat system, this video would’ve been 30 minutes long! There’s so much to it!

[@bobbusc]

@@BacklogBattle you hit all the high points. Excellent job!

[@tatsu7165]

I might be getting this! I played the demo on the 3DS some years ago & I really like it's concept! I never played any of the Monster Hunter games, but this right here might be my introduction in to the MH Universe! 😁

[@BacklogBattle]

And it’s a really good one too!

[@janbiela8596]

This sounds like it’s right up my alley! Thanks for the review!

[@BacklogBattle]

You’re welcome!

[@gleipnirrr]

Your review is right on time, I finished the story mode yesterday, so I can watch with no fear of being spoiled, haha! Definitely in my top 5 games of this year.

[@BacklogBattle]

It’s not like I was going to spoil the game in my review anyway 😉

[@gleipnirrr]

@@BacklogBattle i'm sorry if it came out like that, haha! i meant that for me, any info regarding the game would have counted as a spoiler, as when i have a lot of faith in a franchise, i abstain even from most trailers. great review, by the way!

[@gleipnirrr]

ps: it also sounds like you really enoyed it too. I'm really glad to hear that!

[@asrafkhalid1231]

wonderful take on this amazing game. truthfully i played the demo but it is really amazing (spend around 10 hours), i will get a copy of this game sometime this or next month. like many before me, it is the better monster catch/raise/fight game than pokemon.

[@gleipnirrr]

I'd hazard to say it's the best. the Apex, if you will.

[@asrafkhalid1231]

yea n lets see in Nov whether SMT 5 is better or not.

[@BacklogBattle]

Definitely a huge surprise! Glad you enjoyed the demo and the review!

[@JustJulyo]

Since they're planning to update the game over the coming year I am sure by Black Friday it will be discounted heavily and it will have so many more Monsties and updates I still haven't faced the latest monsters in Rise

[@BacklogBattle]

It’s a great game! Well worth the pick up! Glad you’re thinking of getting it!

[@feistywaffles]

Great review! I'm currently in love with this game. It has the right amount of freshness in the combat to keep me engaged. Plus seeing the monsties in this art style is fun and refreshing.

[@BacklogBattle]

It just keeps getting better as you go! Glad to see you’re enjoying it!

[@76golong73]

Terrific review as usual! I must have been asleep under a rock or something, as I didn't know much about this game (or its predecessor) before this video. So kudos to you for schooling me! I've never played Monster Hunter, but this one definitely seems like my type of game. Problem is, my jrpg backlog is so huge, it's hard for me to pick up yet one more!

[@BacklogBattle]

It’s worth playing imo! Also the co op is a great feature! Not a lot of JRPGs let you do coop!

[@76golong73]

@@BacklogBattle couch co-op? (asking hopefully !!)

[@BacklogBattle]

Sadly no 🙁

[@76golong73]

@@BacklogBattle Awww man! Bummer!

[@anthonycastro9679]

I love your reviews. I was unsure about this one but now I'm definitely gonna pick it up

[@BacklogBattle]

Awesome! Let me know what you think of it when you play!

[@kythlyn]

More interested in the series now; thanks Alex.

[@BacklogBattle]

Glad to have done that!

[@Brandon667x1]

Another great review Alex! This game has been a pleasant surprise for me. I really didn’t expect to like this game as much as I do. I too really enjoyed the music in this game. Just hearing it in this review brought a little smile to my face. The turn based combat is quite addictive & fun. My only real complaint is not having complete control over your party. The AI does some weird things sometimes. It’s not too often, but can be a little frustrating in some of the tougher battles. Overall, this has been one of the most pleasant experiences I’ve had with a game this year. A real surprise. If you are a Monster Hunter fan or just simply into turn based rpg’s, you should really give this a play.

[@BacklogBattle]

The only rider that gave me issues is Alwin, but he’s kind of brash and cocky, which makes sense as to why he would only heal himself and his monstie after charging his arrows lol Jokes aside, I’m glad you enjoyed the review. I’ve always made these videos with the intention of making them rewatchable, with its contents changing its meaning before and after you beat the games featured!

[@kimkom5648]

only thing i didnt like is that you cant mix and match armor .. it will always be a set when you craft it

[@BacklogBattle]

I think it’s not a bad compromise. That’s what Rise and World are for, among many things 😉

[@darwins.2646]

I'm excited to play this game on Switch. I liked the first game, though it was pretty easy. Still, I had a good time with it. I'm hoping this will get some free Nintendo cross over DLC just like MH Stories 1. Played the majority of the first game dressed as Link with Epona as my partner monstie and it was awesome!

[@BacklogBattle]

I think you’re gonna have tons of fun!

[@zonox1928]

Great Review as always Alex. Loved the first game and this one looks and sounds just bigger and better. Really looking forward to it.

[@BacklogBattle]

It’s so good! Am still playing the post game, which will continue to be updated!

[@thaiboypsp3000]

Egg collecting the game. Good to see you doing MH review again Alex!

[@SpeciousCrab]

The most frustrating thing to do in monster hunter but in stories it's actually part of the fun :)

[@BacklogBattle]

Thank you! I’m glad to have done another one as well!

[@supergohansonic]

I've been on the fence about this game. Still not sure if I want to pick it up but this has steered me a bit towards it. Honestly the biggest thing holding me back at the moment is the fact that I want to get it on switch but my joycons drift like crazy so if I do I'd have to buy new joycons or a pro controller as well. Also, have you heard of the game "Cris Tales"? It's an indie RPG that released today. Dunno if it's worry of a review but I think it's worth checking out at the very least.

[@BacklogBattle]

Get a Pro Controller! Also, already have Cris Tales!

[@Gdot62412]

This is the Pokemon game I always wanted on the switch also your review is so laid-back I like that

[@BacklogBattle]

Thank you and glad you enjoyed my laid back style!

[@TrvisXXIII]

Best game, better than current Pokémon

[@watchergirl9]

Still haven't played it yet but should be good. Loved the first one.

[@BacklogBattle]

Then you’ll love this one!

[@SpeciousCrab]

Completed the game today but I'll still watch your review :) The big question is, who is the best waifu and why is it alwin.

[@BacklogBattle]

I’m a Kayna stan!

[@SpeciousCrab]

There's honestly too many to choose from in this game.

[@seanbcusack]

should one play the first game first before this one?

[@BacklogBattle]

You can play this one just fine! Sorry for the late reply!

[@johnpolishimpossible2say191]

I agree with most of this video and do think this game has beautiful art direction, music and a very fun battle system, but you conveniently left out a few big negatives that could deter a lot of people from wanting to pick it up. 1) The monster dens and everdens are really starting to kill my buzz while playing the game. They're very very very copy and paste, not just some elements or some sections repeated but...literally the same areas over and over, right down to placement of art assets, bugs, bones, chests, and layout. Most egregious are the cave versions. Really is killing my fun in the game, because they are necessary to traverse for bottlecaps and monster nests. For anyone playing the game long enough, this becomes an issue. I find kind of insulting the game doesn't attempt to randomize even a LITTLE bit of this (in similar den types). Straight up is the same with maybe plus or minus a path or 2. 2) Too many long linear PS2 era pathways and "corridors." I actually don't mind some linearity between bigger areas, but I'm starting to find some of these sections that adjunct from the bigger areas to be a bit of bore and a chore, couple that with the den criticism and as I get used to the game I feel like I'm spending a lot of time bored and bathing in blandness in time intensive areas. 3) Started to feel this one last night, not finding myself well rewarded for a lot of exploration, and instead finding myself receiving the same crap out of chests and ground forageables over and over. Would be nice to be surprised with something from a chest, or a small optional area with a visual POP (YS8 did this well with small beautiful "landmarks" you'd find down a random out of the way path). 4) Framerate, while you casually mentioned this, it is a big issue in the Rutoh Village, much worse than the starting village (like about the same as BotW right by the Master Sword in the Lost Woods). So bad I hate when I have to go back there. Traversing the world in general is better, but the uncapped FPS fluctuations (25-30-40-60) can be a real headache while trying to admire some of the more open areas of the game, and that majesty definitely dives. If you're sensitive to frame rates (on the Switch version), it can definitely hurt your eyes. I really like the game, but while playing the last night (especially points 1 thru 3), I'm finding my interest waning and wondering if I should just ignore a lot of the den stuff (I usually only hit up everdens and rare dens, not the basic ones) and exploration and make more of a beeline thru the story.

[@BacklogBattle]

Thanks for your comment! Let me address several points you mentioned here: 1 and 2) Yes, a lot of the dens have a lot of similar features, but the game isn’t really about that. It’s about progressing the story and doing the quests, which sometimes takes you in a few of these dens, which are often indicated. For a completionist, I can see how wanting to clear all of these might be a problem, but I am not and will never be one. 3) Comparing Ys 8 with MHS2 isn’t quite fair given that this game doesn’t hand you weapons and armor. The series has been all about the farming and crafting aspect combined in a gameplay loop that can be sustainable until the end. MHS2 has a more extensive post game than Ys 8, complete with a road map for future updates. 4) Yes, frame rates in Rutoh Village aren’t great, but it does not affect gameplay whatsoever. If this were an action game, I would take issue. But you’re going around town and talking to people and crafting - nothing that requires fast reaction. If it helps, my suggested gameplay loop involves progressing the main story while taking all of the quests on the board and in town. Do those quests while you’re on your way to complete the main story. If you need more monsters for your party or channeling, target specific ones and only go in dens when you need to. I also want to address your assertion that I am conveniently leaving out negative details in my review. Many of the things you mentioned are things that I don’t personally care for, and that’s one of the many things that separates who you and I are. Just because it’s a big deal to you doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the same for everyone else, and trying to cover all bases doesn’t always make for a good review. As the saying goes, “Trying to please everyone pleases no one.” For example, I personally think the bugs in Skyrim take down the game several notches. But guess what? It’s still won awards and accolades. That’s because people have differences in opinion, and I’m ok with that. All that said, I hope you enjoy your time with the game and that the advice I gave help you out!