Monster Hunter Stories 2: Mastering Flight & Flying Guide

Hey there, fellow monster riders! Ready to spread your wings and soar through the skies of Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin? Flying in this game isn't just a cool visual—it's a game-changer for exploration, combat, and discovering hidden secrets. In this ultimate guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about unlocking, mastering, and maximizing your flying abilities. Let's dive into the wild blue yonder!

Unlocking the Skies: How to Fly

So, you're probably itching to get airborne, right? Unlocking the ability to fly in Monster Hunter Stories 2 is a key moment in the game. You can't just hop on any Monstie and expect to take off. Flying is tied to specific Monsties that have the innate ability to soar. The most iconic of these is the majestic Rathalos. Acquiring a Rathalos with the Flying ability isn't just about brute force; it's about progressing through the main storyline. As you advance, you'll eventually encounter quests and story beats that lead you to acquiring this fiery friend.

Keep pushing through the main quests, and you'll find yourself on a path that introduces you to the concept of flying Monsties. The game does a pretty good job of telegraphing when you're getting close, so pay attention to the story dialogues and quest descriptions. Once you've reached the pivotal point, you’ll typically need to complete a specific quest that involves either finding a Rathalos egg or battling and befriending a Rathalos. Once you've hatched a Rathalos with the Flying ability, you're golden.

To actually take to the skies, you need to have your flying Monstie in your party. When you're out in the field, simply open your menu, select "Monsties," and then choose the flying Monstie you want to ride. If you're in an area where flying is permitted, you'll see a prompt on the screen, usually a button icon, indicating that you can now take off. Press that button, and watch as your character hops onto their Monstie and ascends into the air. Flying isn't just for show; it opens up entirely new areas and perspectives, allowing you to discover hidden treasures and vantage points that are inaccessible on foot. The sense of freedom is exhilarating, and it’s a significant step up from terrestrial exploration.

Mastering Flight Controls and Techniques

Okay, so you've unlocked the ability to fly – awesome! But now comes the real test: mastering the controls. Flying in Monster Hunter Stories 2 is intuitive but does require a bit of practice to get the hang of it. Think of it as learning to ride a bike; you might wobble at first, but you’ll be soaring like a pro in no time. The basic controls are pretty straightforward. Typically, you'll use the left analog stick to control your direction. Push it forward to fly forward, back to slow down or reverse, and left or right to steer. The camera can be controlled with the right analog stick, allowing you to look around and get your bearings.

Altitude control is usually mapped to the shoulder buttons. One button will make you ascend, while the other will cause you to descend. Mastering altitude is crucial for navigating tricky areas and landing precisely where you want to. Different flying Monsties may handle slightly differently, so it’s worth experimenting with each one to get a feel for their unique flight characteristics. For example, some Monsties might be faster but less agile, while others might be slower but more maneuverable. When you're in the air, keep an eye on your Monstie's stamina gauge. Flying consumes stamina, and if you run out, you'll be forced to land. To manage your stamina, try to avoid using boost for extended periods and look for opportunities to land and rest.

There are also techniques you can use to enhance your flying experience. Some Monsties have special abilities that can be activated while in flight, such as a speed boost or a mid-air attack. Experiment with your Monsties to discover their unique skills and how they can be used to your advantage. Landing smoothly is an art form in itself. To avoid taking fall damage, make sure you’re at a low altitude before dismounting. Look for flat, open areas to land, and try to approach them at a gentle angle. With a bit of practice, you'll be landing like a seasoned pilot in no time. So, get out there, practice those controls, and soon you’ll be navigating the skies like a true Monster Hunter ace.

Maximizing Your Flying Abilities: Tips and Tricks

Alright, so you've got the basics down. Now, let's talk about how to truly maximize your flying abilities in Monster Hunter Stories 2. Flying isn't just about getting from point A to point B; it's a powerful tool that can unlock new opportunities and advantages. One of the biggest benefits of flying is the ability to discover hidden areas and items. Many treasures and resources are located in places that are inaccessible on foot. Keep your eyes peeled for ledges, caves, and secluded spots that you can only reach by air. These hidden areas often contain valuable items, such as rare crafting materials, powerful equipment, and even new Monstie eggs.

When you're exploring, take the time to survey the landscape from above. Use your altitude to get a bird's-eye view of the area, and look for anything that stands out. Pay attention to changes in elevation, unusual rock formations, and any areas that look different from the surrounding terrain. Flying can also give you a tactical advantage in battles. By taking to the skies, you can scout out enemy positions and plan your attacks accordingly. You can also use your altitude to avoid ground-based attacks and gain a better vantage point for ranged attacks. Some Monsties have special abilities that are particularly effective when used from the air, so experiment with different combinations to find what works best for you.

Don't forget to take advantage of flying Monsties during quests and missions. Many quests require you to travel to specific locations or find certain items. Flying can help you reach these destinations quickly and efficiently, saving you valuable time and effort. Plus, the sense of freedom and exploration that flying provides can make even the most mundane tasks feel like an adventure. Finally, remember to upgrade your flying Monsties to improve their flight capabilities. Leveling up your Monsties will increase their stamina and speed, allowing them to fly longer and faster. You can also use genes to customize your Monsties and give them additional abilities that enhance their flying performance. With a little bit of practice and experimentation, you'll be able to master the skies and unlock the full potential of your flying Monsties.

The Best Flying Monsties: A Tier List

Okay, so you're probably wondering which flying Monsties are the cream of the crop, right? Not all flying Monsties are created equal, and some are definitely better suited for certain tasks than others. Here’s a quick tier list to give you an idea of the best flying Monsties in Monster Hunter Stories 2, considering their speed, stamina, special abilities, and overall usefulness.

S-Tier: The Absolute Best

• Rathalos: The OG of flying Monsties, Rathalos is a powerhouse in the air. With excellent speed, stamina, and attack power, Rathalos is perfect for both exploration and combat. Its signature move, King of the Skies, deals massive damage to enemies and can turn the tide of battle. Plus, who doesn't want to ride a fire-breathing dragon?

A-Tier: Excellent Choices

• Rathian: The queen of the land and sky, Rathian is a solid choice for a flying Monstie. While not as fast as Rathalos, Rathian boasts excellent defense and a powerful poison attack. Its ability to inflict poison on enemies makes it a valuable asset in tough battles.
• Kushala Daora: This elder dragon is a force to be reckoned with in the air. Kushala Daora's ability to create wind barriers can protect you from enemy attacks and its powerful wind-based attacks can devastate your opponents. However, its stamina consumption is a bit high, so you'll need to manage it carefully.

B-Tier: Good Alternatives

• Yian Kut-Ku: A reliable early-game flying Monstie, Yian Kut-Ku is easy to obtain and has decent speed and stamina. While it's not as powerful as the S-tier or A-tier Monsties, it's a great option for getting around early in the game.
• Paolumu: This fluffy bat-like Monstie is surprisingly agile and has a unique ability to inflate itself to increase its speed. Paolumu is a fun and quirky choice for those who want a flying Monstie that's a little bit different.

C-Tier: Niche Picks

• Gypceros: While Gypceros can fly, its low speed and stamina make it a less desirable option compared to other flying Monsties. However, its ability to play dead can be useful for avoiding enemy encounters.

Keep in mind that this tier list is just a general guideline, and the best flying Monstie for you will depend on your play style and preferences. Experiment with different Monsties and find the ones that you enjoy riding the most. Happy flying!

Advanced Maneuvers: Secret Techniques

Alright, aspiring aerial aces, let's talk about some advanced maneuvers that can set you apart from the average rider. Flying in Monster Hunter Stories 2 isn't just about flapping your wings and hoping for the best; it's about mastering a set of secret techniques that can give you an edge in exploration and combat. One of the most useful techniques is the Dive Bomb. This involves gaining altitude and then rapidly descending towards the ground. When executed correctly, the Dive Bomb can be used to quickly cover large distances, evade enemy attacks, or even deliver a devastating aerial strike. To perform a Dive Bomb, simply gain altitude and then press the descent button while moving forward. The timing is crucial, so practice makes perfect.

Another advanced maneuver is the Mid-Air Hover. This allows you to briefly pause in mid-air, giving you a chance to survey your surroundings or line up a precise attack. To perform a Mid-Air Hover, quickly tap the ascend and descend buttons simultaneously. This will cause your Monstie to briefly stall in the air, giving you a moment to catch your breath and plan your next move. The Barrel Roll is a flashy and effective way to evade enemy attacks while in flight. By performing a Barrel Roll, you can quickly dodge projectiles or reposition yourself to gain a tactical advantage. To perform a Barrel Roll, quickly tap the left or right directional button twice while in the air. This will cause your Monstie to perform a quick roll, allowing you to evade incoming attacks.

Mastering these advanced maneuvers can take your flying skills to the next level. Practice them in a safe area until you feel comfortable, and then start incorporating them into your exploration and combat routines. With a little bit of skill and finesse, you'll be able to navigate the skies like a true pro. So, get out there, experiment with different techniques, and discover your own unique style of aerial combat. The sky's the limit!

Conclusion: Soar to New Heights

So, there you have it, guys! Everything you need to know about flying in Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin. From unlocking the ability to fly to mastering advanced maneuvers, you're now equipped to take to the skies and explore the world like never before. Flying isn't just a fun gimmick; it's an integral part of the Monster Hunter Stories 2 experience. It allows you to discover hidden areas, gain tactical advantages in battle, and simply enjoy the freedom of soaring through the air.

Remember to experiment with different flying Monsties, practice your controls, and don't be afraid to try new things. The more you fly, the better you'll become, and the more you'll discover. So, grab your favorite flying Monstie, spread your wings, and get ready to soar to new heights. The world of Monster Hunter Stories 2 is waiting to be explored, and the sky's the limit! Happy riding, and may your adventures be filled with excitement, wonder, and plenty of breathtaking views. Safe travels, riders!