Monster Hunter Stories 2: How To Fly & Soar The Skies

Hey there, fellow Monster Riders! Are you itching to take to the skies in Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin? The feeling of soaring above the landscapes of Hakum Village and beyond is truly exhilarating, opening up a whole new dimension of exploration and adventure. Flying isn't just a cool way to travel; it’s essential for accessing hidden areas, discovering rare resources, and, let's be honest, showing off your bond with your Monstie. So, how exactly do you unlock this awesome ability? Let's dive into the details and get you ready to spread your wings!

Unlocking the Power of Flight

First things first, you can't just jump into the air and expect your Monstie to sprout wings on command! Unlocking the ability to fly in Monster Hunter Stories 2 is tied to story progression. Specifically, you'll need to advance the main storyline until you reach Loloska Forest. Keep playing through the main quests, complete the necessary missions, and eventually, you'll encounter a pivotal moment that unlocks the power of flight. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!

Think of it as a reward for your dedication and progress in the game. The developers want you to experience the world, build connections with your Monsties, and understand the stakes before giving you the freedom to fly. This approach ensures that when you finally take to the skies, you have a good grasp of the game's mechanics, a strong team of Monsties, and a compelling reason to explore every nook and cranny of the map. So, keep pushing forward, complete those quests, and let the story unfold. Your chance to fly will come soon enough, and when it does, it will be an unforgettable moment that enhances your entire Monster Hunter Stories 2 experience.

The Key Monstie: Unlocking the Skies with Ratha

Alright, listen up, Riders! The key to unlocking flight isn't just about progressing through the story; it's also about who you have in your party. The Monstie that grants you the power of flight is none other than Ratha. Ratha is a special Monstie in Monster Hunter Stories 2, and plays a significant role in the game's narrative. You'll encounter Ratha as you advance through the main story, and bonding with it is crucial to unlocking its unique abilities, including the ability to fly.

Think of Ratha as more than just a powerful ally; he’s a symbol of your journey and the bond between Riders and Monsties. As you progress through the game, you'll learn more about Ratha's significance and the role he plays in the larger story. This connection is what ultimately allows you to take to the skies, creating a truly immersive and meaningful experience. The game does a fantastic job of weaving Ratha's story into the gameplay, making the moment you finally unlock flight feel earned and significant. So, keep Ratha close, nurture your bond, and prepare to experience the world of Monster Hunter Stories 2 from a whole new perspective.

Mounting Up and Taking Flight

Okay, you've unlocked the ability to fly and you've got Ratha in your party. Now what? It's time to mount up and take to the skies! Summon Ratha from your party, just like you would with any other rideable Monstie. Once you're mounted, keep an eye out for areas where flight is possible. These areas are usually marked on the map or indicated by a visual cue in the environment, such as an updraft or a cliff edge. When you're in a suitable location, a prompt will appear on the screen, instructing you to press a specific button to take off. Usually, it's the 'Y' button on your Nintendo Switch.

Make sure you're in an open area to avoid any accidental collisions with trees, rocks, or other obstacles. The game does a decent job of guiding you, but it's always a good idea to have a clear path before initiating flight. Once you're airborne, you'll have full control over Ratha's movement. Use the control stick to steer, and the A button to gain altitude. Be mindful of Ratha's stamina, though. Flying consumes stamina, and if you run out, you'll be forced to land. Keep an eye on the stamina gauge and plan your flight paths accordingly. With a little practice, you'll be soaring through the skies like a pro, discovering new areas, and enjoying the breathtaking views that Monster Hunter Stories 2 has to offer.

Mastering Flight Controls

So, you're up in the air, but feeling a little wobbly? Don't worry, mastering the flight controls in Monster Hunter Stories 2 takes a bit of practice. Here’s a breakdown to help you become a true aerial ace:

• Direction: Use the left analog stick to steer Ratha. Push forward to move ahead, back to slow down or reverse, and left or right to turn. Smooth, gentle movements are key to maintaining control, especially in tight spaces.
• Altitude: The 'A' button is your best friend for gaining altitude. Tap it repeatedly to climb higher. Be mindful of Ratha's stamina, though. Constant climbing will drain it quickly. Descending is usually automatic, but you can also gently push the control stick down to descend faster.
• Stamina Management: Keep a close eye on the stamina gauge at the bottom of the screen. Flying consumes stamina, and when it runs out, you'll be forced to land. To conserve stamina, try to maintain a steady altitude and avoid unnecessary maneuvers. You can also land briefly to replenish stamina before taking off again.
• Landing: To land, simply press the 'B' button. Ratha will gracefully descend to the nearest available landing spot. Make sure you have enough space to land safely, and avoid landing near enemies that might attack you upon touchdown.
• Advanced Maneuvers: As you become more comfortable with the flight controls, you can start experimenting with advanced maneuvers. Try using the environment to your advantage, such as flying through narrow passages or using updrafts to gain extra altitude. With practice, you'll be able to navigate even the most challenging terrain with ease.

Finding Hidden Locations

One of the biggest perks of flying in Monster Hunter Stories 2 is the ability to access hidden locations that are otherwise inaccessible. Keep your eyes peeled for secluded areas, high cliffs, and floating islands that you can only reach by taking to the skies. These hidden spots often contain valuable resources, rare monsters, and secret treasure chests.

When exploring, pay close attention to your surroundings. Look for visual cues that might indicate a hidden location, such as a faint glimmer in the distance or an unusual rock formation. Use your map to get a better sense of the terrain and identify potential areas to explore. Don't be afraid to deviate from the main path and venture off the beaten track. Some of the most rewarding discoveries are found in the most unexpected places. Flying also allows you to scout ahead and plan your route more effectively. You can use your aerial vantage point to identify enemy locations, resource nodes, and other points of interest. This can save you time and effort in the long run, especially when you're on a time-sensitive mission.

Gathering Rare Resources from Above

Flying isn't just about sightseeing; it's also a fantastic way to gather rare resources that are otherwise difficult to obtain. Keep an eye out for resource nodes that are located on high cliffs, floating islands, or other inaccessible areas. These nodes often contain valuable materials that are essential for crafting powerful weapons, armor, and items.

When you spot a resource node from the air, simply land nearby and dismount Ratha to collect the materials. Some resource nodes may require you to complete a mini-game or defeat a monster before you can harvest them. Be prepared for anything, and make sure you have a strong team of Monsties to back you up. Flying also allows you to gather resources more efficiently. You can quickly survey a large area from the air and identify the most promising resource nodes. This can save you a lot of time and effort compared to searching on foot. Additionally, some resources may only be available during certain times of day or in specific weather conditions. Flying allows you to quickly travel to different areas and check for these resources, maximizing your chances of finding what you need.

Battling Flying Monsters

Of course, soaring through the skies isn't without its dangers. Be prepared to encounter flying monsters that will challenge your aerial supremacy. These battles can be tough, but they're also incredibly rewarding. To emerge victorious, you'll need to master the art of aerial combat.

Before engaging a flying monster, take a moment to assess its strengths and weaknesses. Pay attention to its attack patterns and elemental affinities. This will help you choose the right Monsties and weapons for the battle. During the battle, use Ratha's agility to your advantage. Dodge incoming attacks, reposition yourself for optimal damage, and exploit the monster's weaknesses. Don't be afraid to use Kinship Skills to unleash devastating attacks and turn the tide of the battle. Remember to keep an eye on Ratha's stamina and health. If you're running low on either, land briefly to recover before re-engaging. With practice and strategy, you'll be able to take down even the toughest flying monsters and claim your place as the king (or queen) of the skies.

Pro Tips for Sky-High Adventures

Alright, listen up, seasoned riders! Here are some pro tips to help you make the most of your sky-high adventures in Monster Hunter Stories 2:

• Plan Your Routes: Before taking off, take a moment to plan your route. Identify your destination, and look for any potential obstacles or points of interest along the way. This will help you avoid getting lost or wasting stamina.
• Utilize Updrafts: Keep an eye out for updrafts, which can give you a significant boost in altitude. Flying through an updraft will replenish Ratha's stamina and allow you to reach higher areas.
• Explore at Different Times of Day: Some areas may look different or contain different resources depending on the time of day. Experiment with exploring at different times to discover new secrets.
• Upgrade Your Gear: Invest in gear that enhances Ratha's flying abilities, such as items that increase stamina or improve maneuverability. This will make your aerial adventures even more enjoyable.
• Practice, Practice, Practice: The more you fly, the better you'll become. Don't be afraid to experiment with different techniques and maneuvers until you find what works best for you.

Conclusion: Embrace the Freedom of Flight

So there you have it, folks! Everything you need to know to unlock the power of flight in Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin. Soaring through the skies is an absolute game-changer, opening up a world of new possibilities and adventures. The landscapes are breathtaking, the sense of freedom is unmatched, and the rewards are well worth the effort. So, buckle up, mount your Monstie, and prepare to embrace the freedom of flight. Happy travels, and may your skies be filled with wonder and excitement!