Monster Hunter III

[Evil Avnovice]

"Gullet Slashing" TGS 2008 video from Gametrailers (http://www.gametrailers.com/player/41262.html).

41262

-Europe: Early 2010
-North America: Early 2010

[Evil Avnovice]

Some new images (http://www.gamekyo.com/newsen29262_monster-hunter-3-tri-new-screenshots.html). (Gamekyo)

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/61331520081011_032844_0_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images0_4_29262.html)

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/61331520081011_032844_1_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images1_4_29262.html)

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/61331520081011_032844_4_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images4_4_29262.html)

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/61331520081011_032844_6_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images6_4_29262.html)

[Evil Avnovice]

A presentation video from TGS 2008, as taken from Samus Aran's blog (http://www.gamekyo.com/blog_article211332.html) on Gamekyo.

Google Translation:

Capcom eye does not affect the capacity with regard to some Monster Hunter 3. The app is intended to be the star of the Tokyo Game Show with a stand where the huge queue goes further. The editor, during his press conference he held a long session with the key distilled many details.

Thus, we learn that this new creature can imitate the cry of other species to help in critical moments. This means it will wire twisting! Each animal has a tonnage of endurance taking a very important place in the clashes. Indeed, when the beast of steam, its capabilities are reduced drastically, and thus tries to escape in order to recharge. If the monster is carnivorous, it will then attack the predators around. You also find details on the handling.

[Evil Avnovice]

Two things I've noticed after watching the video: 1) It looks like you may be able to use the Classic Controller to play the game. 2) It's set for a "2009" release. Which is most likely for Japan.

One thing I wish is that Capcom uses some common sense and include WiiSpeak for the game.

[Widgetcraft]

I think this might turn out to be my first entry in the Monster Hunter franchise.

[Purple Santa]

I think this might turn out to be my first entry in the Monster Hunter franchise.

My thoughts to myself too...those screens look, well hell they look mighty good. I'm glad I might be able to play with classic controller...I'll continue my thought from the other thread on this game...why Capcom on the Wii? The DS...yes...the Wii in U.S.? I hope the cheaper development was cost saving enough to make up in the "meh" sales you might get...

[Kryopsis]

My thoughts to myself too...those screens look, well hell they look mighty good. I'm glad I might be able to play with classic controller...I'll continue my thought from the other thread on this game...why Capcom on the Wii? The DS...yes...the Wii in U.S.? I hope the cheaper development was cost saving enough to make up in the "meh" sales you might get...

No offense but I am barely able to follow your train of thought without the gratuitous usage of ellipses.

[Doctor Setebos]

The DS...yes...the Wii in U.S.?I actually have a hard time believing that this game will end up seeing a US release.

[Evil Avnovice]

Parts 1 (http://www.gametrailers.com/player/41424.html) & 2 (http://www.gametrailers.com/player/41426.html) of a TGS 2008 stage demo. (Gametrailers)

41424

41426

[SilentScreams]

I've always wanted to try a Monster Hunter game and since this will apparently allow the use of a classic controller, I may check it out.

I think I'll have a look in my local game stores and see if I can find a cheap copy of the PS2 version.

[IncredibleScott]

I'm really mixed on this game. I played MH: Freedom on the PSP and absolutly hated the controls. The gameplay itself was alright, although a bit difficult and repetitive with some grinding involved to craft weapons and armor, unfortunately it's not possible to play online unless you fudge around with XLink KAI (which I don't have the time or patience for). Still, it sells like hotcakes in Japan.

On the other hand, I seldom use the Wii except for the occasional VC/WiiWare release and have waited for a decent multiplayer game on the Wii for some time. From what I understand, there will be a lobby system, so I won't have to worry about Friend-Code swapping over IRC or anything crazy like that. This just may be the game that will give me some reason to play on the Wii again.

[Evil Avnovice]

Additional details from IGN (http://wii.ign.com/articles/917/917982p1.html).

[Young Al Capone]

My thoughts to myself too...those screens look, well hell they look mighty good. I'm glad I might be able to play with classic controller...I'll continue my thought from the other thread on this game...why Capcom on the Wii? The DS...yes...the Wii in U.S.? I hope the cheaper development was cost saving enough to make up in the "meh" sales you might get...

I dont even know what you just said. As far as choosing the Wii though, I imagine it has something to do with it having by far the largest user base.

I hope this makes it stateside, especially now that it is turning out that motion control isn't going to be a requirement. I just don't see how it would work.

My first attept at the series was nothing but an exercise in frustration, with Monster Hunter 2 on the PSP. Still, I remain interested because it seems like something I would like.

[Virtual Machine]

I'm pretty big on the series. Loved the PS2 version (GOD i miss the online!), and i play the PSP iterations pretty regular-like.

I'm saddened that it's a wii title, but if i can use the classic controller, and the online play is there, i may have to break down and buy Nintendo's damn heathen-box.

[SilentScreams]

I've just finished playing a little of the PS2 version. It's going a bit slow at the moment. It feels like I'm more or less doing the same thing over and over.
Then again, I've only played up to the last of the 2 star missions you get from the village elder.
Does it pick up at all?

[JayVe]

Parts 1 (http://www.gametrailers.com/player/41424.html) & 2 (http://www.gametrailers.com/player/41426.html) of a TGS 2008 stage demo. (Gametrailers)

This second video sold me. The fluidity of the split-screen action is gonna be key chez moi.

[Evil Avnovice]

A short gameplay video (http://www.gamekyo.com/group_article3276.html) from TGS 2008. This was taken from Nintendo-Town's blog over at Gamekyo.

EJco9bwo4xA

[J Arcane]

We goddamn well better get this one.

We haven't had an actual full-sized MH game in the US since the original.

The whole main point of the game is grouping up for big epic monster fights, and those fights, and really the whole game, loses a lot of it's grandeur on a PSP screen.

[Evil Avnovice]

Some new scans. (Gamekyo (http://www.gamekyo.com/newsen29432_monster-hunter-3-tri-nouvelles-images.html))

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/61331520081223_161258_2_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images2_4_29432.html)

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/61331520081223_161259_4_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images4_4_29432.html)

[Deadend]

I guess I am not seeing it, but in those videos... the game looks really sluggish, the camera seems kind of poor and the animations seem sort of stale. I am hoping its because everyone sucks at it... but the game looks like it's really boring considering how awesome the idea is.

[J Arcane]

Looked at from a critical angle, you could say the same for the previous games.

However, said nitpicks sort of miss where the game truly shines, which is absolutely fucking epic team-based boss battles, and none of them wind up hindering things that much.

[Virtual Machine]

It's certainly an acquired taste. But it's one that i've acquired bigtime.

It appeared on our supplier's upcoming releases list as June 31st, 2009. But end of the month releases usually mean dick all. Basically a placeholder in their database i believe.

[Evil Avnovice]

A batch of new images (http://www.gamekyo.com/newsen29467_monster-hunter-3-new-images.html). (Gamekyo)

[JayVe]

This game looks excellent

http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa55/goodavatar/61331520090109_063150_8_big.jpg

[Gorvi]

That looks excellent. My first MH game will be Unite on the PSP in a couple of months, but I have a strong feeling this'll be my second. Just as long as there's some form of communication, I can live with it if it's even only keyboard.

[Virtual Machine]

If they stick with allowing the use of classic/gamecube controllers - i'll probably finally bite on the wii worm and let Nintendo attempt to reel me in.

[JayVe]

If they stick with allowing the use of classic/gamecube controllers - i'll probably finally bite on the wii worm and let Nintendo attempt to reel me in.

Everything I've read indicates that this title will be perfectly playable with the classic controller.

[Virtual Machine]

Everything I've read indicates that this title will be perfectly playable with the classic controller.

NOT what i wanted to hear... grumble grumble... buyin' a wii grumble grumble spit!

[JayVe]

NOT what i wanted to hear... grumble grumble... buyin' a wii grumble grumble spit!

Here's a video about it.

http://www.gametrailers.com/player/44088.html

How do you embed GameTrailers?

[Gorvi]

Here's a video about it.

http://www.gametrailers.com/player/44088.html

How do you embed GameTrailers?
Like this:

44088

[JayVe]

If they stick with allowing the use of classic/gamecube controllers - i'll probably finally bite on the wii worm and let Nintendo attempt to reel me in.

Apparently, a remake of the 1st Monster Hunter game will ALSO be coming to Wii, with Online Play, and Classic Controller support. It is called Monster Hunter G (http://www.nintendowiifanboy.com/2009/01/15/japanese-monster-hunter-g-bundle-includes-special-edition-blue-c/). The game will have a special classic controller available for it, and will come with a demo of Minster Hunter Tri (3).

http://www.blogcdn.com/www.nintendowiifanboy.com/media/2009/01/mhgcc115.jpg

No word on a US release.

[Gorvi]

Apparently, a remake of the 1st Monster Hunter game will ALSO be coming to Wii, with Online Play, and Classic Controller support. It is called Monster Hunter G (http://www.nintendowiifanboy.com/2009/01/15/japanese-monster-hunter-g-bundle-includes-special-edition-blue-c/). The game will have a special classic controller available for it, and will come with a demo of Minster Hunter Tri (3).

http://www.blogcdn.com/www.nintendowiifanboy.com/media/2009/01/mhgcc115.jpg

No word on a US release.
According to Capcom (http://www.capcom-unity.com/ask_capcom/go/thread/view/7371/13013879/Capcom_i_want_this&post_num=2), we'll get neither:
You'll have to get it from an import shop. Neither MHG or that controller is coming to the US. Sorry. :(

[JayVe]

According to Capcom (http://www.capcom-unity.com/ask_capcom/go/thread/view/7371/13013879/Capcom_i_want_this&post_num=2), we'll get neither:

Booo!

That controller is timelessly hot.

[Evil Avnovice]

Some new images (http://www.gamekyo.com/newsen29659_monster-hunter-3-new-pics.html). (Gamekyo)

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/61331520090115_183046_6_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images6_4_29659.html)

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/61331520090115_183046_9_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images9_4_29659.html)

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/61331520090115_183046_11_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images11_4_29659.html)

[JayVe]

These pics be epic.

[Gorvi]

Booo!

That controller is timelessly hot.
Really? I thought it was pretty ugly compared to the regular classic controller.

[JayVe]

Really? I thought it was pretty ugly compared to the regular classic controller.

I love it. The simple, sharp design will last a lot longer than most anything. Looks almost Myan. But yes, for a completely timeless look one can do no better than all white.

[Gorvi]

I love it. The simple, sharp design will last a lot longer than most anything. Looks almost Myan. But yes, for a completely timeless look one can do no better than all white.
The design isn't bad, but the color choices are.... less than ideal.

[JayVe]

The design isn't bad, but the color choices are.... less than ideal.

Blue and gold? I beg to differ.

[Gorvi]

Blue and gold? I beg to differ.
Sorry, you're wrong. :p

[Variable Gear]

Apparently, a remake of the 1st Monster Hunter game will ALSO be coming to Wii, with Online Play, and Classic Controller support. It is called Monster Hunter G (http://www.nintendowiifanboy.com/2009/01/15/japanese-monster-hunter-g-bundle-includes-special-edition-blue-c/). The game will have a special classic controller available for it, and will come with a demo of Minster Hunter Tri (3).
Don't be surprised if Monster Hunter G outsells Monster Hunter Tri.

[Virtual Machine]

Argghhhh!!!!

Fuck Capcom. That's right up there with the Japanese exclusive verision of FFXII where they brought back the job system. Why do Japanese Developers hate me so?

[boratika]

Everything I've read indicates that this title will be perfectly playable with the classic controller.

NOT what i wanted to hear... grumble grumble... buyin' a wii grumble grumble spit!

By all accounts these are pretty good. Wireless too (to the Wiiremote that is.)

http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f66/boratika/nyko_wing.jpg

[Doctor Setebos]

By all accounts these are pretty good. Wireless too (to the Wiiremote that is.)

http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f66/boratika/nyko_wing.jpgI have the wireless Nyko nunchuk and can account for its awesomeness. I wouldn't mind picking up a wireless classic controller, as well, though I honestly don't use it that often at the moment.

[JayVe]

By all accounts these are pretty good. Wireless too (to the Wiiremote that is.)

http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f66/boratika/nyko_wing.jpg

This sounds great. I have a little clip that attaches the Wii remote to the bottom of the classic controller. It works REALLY well and was only $4. I love the sound of a wireless Classic Controller, but this is a little much.

[Evil Avnovice]

There's a strong possibility that Capcom may be bringing this stateside. (GoNintendo (http://gonintendo.com/?p=73688); Siliconera (http://www.siliconera.com/2009/02/24/capcom-considering-to-make-more-ds-games/))

[JayVe]

There's a strong possibility that Capcom may be bringing this stateside. (GoNintendo (http://gonintendo.com/?p=73688); Siliconera (http://www.siliconera.com/2009/02/24/capcom-considering-to-make-more-ds-games/))

I hope they do bring it stateside. :D

[x Returner x]

Any plans for them to bring a Monster Hunter to the PS3 or 360?

[Doctor Setebos]

Any plans for them to bring a Monster Hunter to the PS3 or 360?Capcom has made it pretty clear that the development costs on the PS3 are too high and have said several times that they plan to make MH3 Wii-exclusive.

And there likely won't be a 360 version because I don't think any Japanese companies have any 360 dev kits. ;)

[Virtual Machine]

I'd say count on a next gen Monster Hunter. Earlier this year they (being Capcom) were quoted somewhere as saying that in the next few years Monster Hunter will have a HUGE global presence.

[Evil Avnovice]

10 minutes of demo footage. (GoNintendo (http://gonintendo.com/?p=79765))

GWRug26XGL8

[MalReynolds]

come on PS3 Monster Hunter

[Evil Avnovice]

An IGN (http://wii.ign.com/articles/975/975197p1.html) hands-on with the Monster Hunter 3 demo.

The demo offers two missions set in the same seaside forest area. In the easier of the missions, players are asked track down and kill the raptor-like Dosujagi creature. The harder of the two missions has you do the same for the much tricker bird-like Kuripeko. Both missions have a twenty minute time limit and can be played as one of four character types: sword, broad sword, hammer, and bow gun.

In both missions, you start off in your home camp on the shore. You can see the position of your target on an on-screen map. Getting to the creature is simply a matter of following the map.

For those who aren't familiar with Monster Hunter, the game splits its maps into multiple sections. Each small area is connected by a loading point. Unlike past MH games, the load times on the Wii take one to two seconds and do feel very swift, but you will frequently see a giant "NOW LOADING" sign fill the screen as you move about the world. This will probably surprise a few at first (you can see what it looks like in our videos below), but after a few plays, we think you'll get used to it.

Reach your prey, and you'll find a tough fight, as the Monster Hunter creatures don't die easily. Dosujagi takes a good number of hits to kill, and if overwhelmed, will retreat to a nearby nest where his buddies await. He'll also occasionally call out for support. Kuripeko can also call out for support, but he has an even better defensive tool: he can simply fly away to another part of the map.

Going by the demo, monster behavior is going one of the biggest attractions of Monster Hunter 3. From their animations to their dinosaur-like cries, both Dosujagi and Kuripeko are very lifelike. They're also fierce about protecting themselves, in contrast to some of the more peaceful creatures grazing about the world who won't run away from you until you start slashing at them.

Outside of fighting these two creatures, the Monster Hunter 3 demo has another area of play that has managed to suck up a good amount of our time: simply walking around. It's fun to just run around and explore the world, as not only is it among the best looking worlds we've yet to see on the Wii, but there's so much variety. You'll go from a shore to forests and caverns, and can even submerge yourself underwater for a few swimming sections.

The demo (http://www.play-asia.com/paOS-13-71-z3-49-en-70-386z.html) in question....

[Evil Avnovice]

Impressions from Andriasang (http://www.andriasang.com/e/blogs/anoop/2009/04/22/monster_hunter_3_impressions/).

[Evil Avnovice]

Some new scans. (Gamekyo (http://www.gamekyo.com/newsen30819_a-few-scans-for-monster-hunter-3.html))

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/61331520090423_205404_4_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images4_4_30819.html)

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/61331520090423_205402_1_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images1_4_30819.html)

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/61331520090423_205405_5_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images5_4_30819.html)

[Evil Avnovice]

Four new images. They're the last four from the last link I've posted. (Gamekyo)

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/61331520090424_214941_0_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images7_4_30819.html)

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/61331520090424_214941_1_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images8_4_30819.html)

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/61331520090424_214941_2_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images9_4_30819.html)

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/61331520090424_214941_3_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images10_4_30819.html)

[SilentScreams]

Those weapons look ridiculous.

[J Arcane]

Those weapons look ridiculous.
It wouldn't be Monster Hunter if they didn't.

[Lekon]

I miss Monster Hunter. I played the hell out of the ps2 MH2 in Japanese, even when I can't read too much of it.

I just can't do another translation job on a MH game. Here's to hoping they'll bring it stateside.

[Evil Avnovice]

Some new images. (Livegen (http://www.livewii.fr/news/121000/Monster-Hunter-3-le-plein-d-039-images.html?c=4))

[Xerxes]

This would probably kill on live. 4 player co-op monster hunting on live? Gold.

[JayVe]

Can't wait for this game. I saw a video of the split-screen game in action and can see the Mrs. and I playing co-op all night. Of, we may also play some Monster Hunter 3. too. :D

[violent]

This might be the first game in a while I buy for my Wii. Gonna wait on the reviews though.

[Evil Avnovice]

By way of Siliconera (http://www.siliconera.com/2009/05/10/capcom-developing-9-wii-games-officially-confirms-monster-hunter-tri/), the game way see a possible North Amercian release between April 2009-2010.

[Evil Avnovice]

Some new details. (GoNintendo (http://gonintendo.com/?p=82371); 1up (http://www.1up.com/do/newsStory?cId=3174204))

- those that purchase early in Japan will get one of three monster figurines
- rumble-compatible Classic Controller Pro pack for 8490 yen
- limited edition contents: DVD showing ‘making-of’ footage and a the complete orchestra session that was held last week, plus more goodies that are yet to be revealed
- volcano-themed field announced
- New character: Chacha - tribal character that helps you out in single player

[Widgetcraft]

Apparently Rumiko Takahashi has given permission for the developers to put the sword from Inuyasha in the game...

[Evil Avnovice]

New trailer. (GoNintendo (http://gonintendo.com/?p=82457))

MfkxRme2neo

[Evil Avnovice]

Limited Edition pics. (GoNintendo (http://gonintendo.com/?p=82471))

http://gonintendo.com/wp-content/photos/mh3_1_1.jpg

http://gonintendo.com/wp-content/photos/mh3_2.jpg

http://gonintendo.com/wp-content/photos/mh3_3.jpg

[MalReynolds]

think is gonna make me buy a Wii this and Punchout -.-

[Evil Avnovice]

Some new details. (GoNintendo (http://gonintendo.com/?p=82495); NeoGaf (http://www.neogaf.com/forum/showpost.php?p=15831630&postcount=922))

New Monster: Uragan King
- Replenish stamina by eating rocks
- Uses chin to slam the ground
- Shoots explosives from body

-Cha Cha can join you in battle (single player)

Slash Axe
-turn into an axe and sword, both with no guards
-elemental attack in sword mode

Lance
- use shield to attack
- counters

Long Sword
- sidestep jump after slash
- new roundhouse slash finisher.

Bowguns
Light - able to sidestep
Middle - able to siderow
Heavy - Auto block

[Xerxes]

PS2 game to PSP to Wii? Ugh...

Has online Wii play got any better?

[Evil Avnovice]

Mmmm....promotional outline. (GoNintendo (http://gonintendo.com/?p=82655))

http://gonintendo.com/wp-content/uploads/monsterplan.jpg

[Evil Avnovice]

Some new images. (Gamekyo (http://www.gamekyo.com/newsfr31055_monster-hunter-3-se-fait-un-lave-ment-en-images.html))

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/61331520090518_143406_0_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images0_4_31055.html)

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/61331520090518_143406_3_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images3_4_31055.html)

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/61331520090518_143406_5_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images5_4_31055.html)

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/61331520090518_143407_7_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images7_4_31055.html)

[davboy6]

sweet pics

[Xerxes]

This can be played online right?

[Evil Avnovice]

Capcom is setting up a few spots for promo tours in Japan. (GoNintendo (http://gonintendo.com/?p=83370); GameFront (http://gamefront.de/))

- Tokyo (July 4th, 5th)
Laforet Museum

- Osaka (July 12th)
Dojima River Forum

- Nagoya (July 19th)
Nagoya International Exhibition Hall

[Evil Avnovice]

1. Some new images from Andriasang (http://www.andriasang.com/e/galleries/2009/05/23/monster_hunter_3/).

2. And some details on Chacha, a character that will accompany you on your hunts. (Andriasang (http://www.andriasang.com/e/blog/2009/05/24/mh3_chacha/))

[Evil Avnovice]

Some Famitsu scans. (Gamekyo (http://www.gamekyo.com/newsen31412_monster-hunter-3-new-images.html))

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/61331520090701_102515_0_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images0_4_31412.html)

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/61331520090701_102515_1_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images1_4_31412.html)

[Evil Avnovice]

Details on the game's online hub. (1up (http://www.1up.com/do/newsStory?cId=3175022))

Broadly speaking, Loklak is divided into five areas:

- The town gate, where you choose a server based on what level of experience you are and what it is you want to do (for example, recruit people for a quest). The gate's also home to Loklak's information desk, helpfully telling you about special shop sales and special limited-time events.

- The main square, where you trade items, buy tools/materials, and combine purchased or found materials together to make new things. There's also an "interior workshop," an outdoor stand that creates furniture for your guest house (more on that below) if you bring the owner the right items.

- The tavern, where you pick up quests and eat food to power up your hunter before hitting the road. The bar's also home to the town colosseum, where tournaments are occasionally held.

- The lodging row, where the guest houses are. The size of your guest house depends entirely on your hunter's rank; the better you get, the more luxurious it becomes. You can also invite friends to your place to hang out if you like.

- The workshop, where you buy and upgrade/modify your weapons.

[Xerxes]

Wow... This game doesn't look as ugly as I expect from Wii games.

[J Arcane]

Wow... This game doesn't look as ugly as I expect from Wii games.
That's good. Maybe it'll encourage the rest of Wii developers to get off their fucking arses and start using the hardware.

[violent]

I'm gonna download this demo, see how it's looking.

[TheEpicOfTyler]

I always wanted to love Monster Hunter, but I could never finish any online because of poor/trolling team mates, and the single player was never a really fleshed out experience.

This was PS2 version btw, I would love to see a next gen version though. Wouldn't have to deal with awful randoms.

[Evil Avnovice]

Some new images. (Gamekyo (http://www.gamekyo.com/newsfr31461_monster-hunter-3-chasse-en-images.html))

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/61331520090706_160212_0_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images0_4_31461.html)

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/61331520090706_160213_5_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images5_4_31461.html)

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/61331520090706_160213_6_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images6_4_31461.html)

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/61331520090706_160213_7_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images7_4_31461.html)

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/61331520090706_160213_8_big.jpg (http://www.gamekyo.com/images8_4_31461.html)

[Evil Avnovice]

New details from a promotional event Capcom held over the weekend. (Andriasang (http://www.andriasang.com/e/blog/2009/07/06/mh3_trailer_and_promo_plans/))

E4UE_YphxMc

[Evil Avnovice]

Some images of the event from GameWatch (http://game.watch.impress.co.jp/docs/news/20090704_300109.html).

[Camel]

I have been playing the new Monster Hunter game on PSP, and am hooked. I'm definitely interested in this title now, although there is one thing that the game really needs: some way to lock onto enemies! It is stupidly difficult to hit things sometimes in the game.

Also, it looks like some of the weapons that I think are pretty fun (hunting horns, gunlances) might not be in the game (at least according to wikipedia). Not that big of a deal if this game is anything like the PSP one, as there are tons of weapons to create and upgrade.

[RandoM51]

This game could single-handedly put the sparkle back in console gaming for the Japanese gamer. If it captures the MH gameplay, it is going to sell a hell of a lot of Wiis.

[Evil Avnovice]

Some new images from Andriasang (http://www.andriasang.com/e/galleries/2009/07/08/monster_hunter_3/).

[Xerxes]

That's good. Maybe it'll encourage the rest of Wii developers to get off their fucking arses and start using the hardware.

I spoke to soon. Looks almost like the PS2 version. Although I guess it had no other choice.

[Evil Avnovice]

A large amount of images from GameWatch (http://game.watch.impress.co.jp/docs/review/20090730_305794.html).

[JayVe]

I spoke to soon. Looks almost like the PS2 version. Although I guess it had no other choice.

If you are speaking of the art direction, then yes. Monster Hunter III does look like earlier Monster Hunter games. If you are speaking of graphic fidelity, Monster Hunter III looks better (http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/61331520090706_160213_5_big.jpg) than the PS2 version (http://www.abc.net.au/triplej/review/games/img/m1092076.jpg).

http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa55/goodavatar/MonsterHunterCompare.png

[Xerxes]

Not by much still. But I do see your point. Hell, put up a screen shot of United. Let's see if it's got more juice than the Wii. ^_^

[Doctor Setebos]

Have they mentioned how much the subscription will cost per month?

[Evil Avnovice]

Video. (NintendoEverything (http://www.nintendoeverything.com/?p=20898))

xITgkUupWvY

Doctor Setebos: I haven't heard anything about it.

[Iron Past]

Have they mentioned how much the subscription will cost per month?

This brings to mind a couple questions: A)Is it going to be considered an MMO? Is there a need for a subscription model? and B)What the fuck? Are they completely forsaking single-player or is it that you're just interested in the multi?

Nothing meant to be inflammatory, just curious. A huge focus on multiplayer leaving a broken singleplayer in its wake would really take the wind out of my sales, even if the Wii didn't have its stupid online system.

[Doctor Setebos]

This brings to mind a couple questions: A)Is it going to be considered an MMO? Is there a need for a subscription model? and B)What the fuck? Are they completely forsaking single-player or is it that you're just interested in the multi?

Nothing meant to be inflammatory, just curious. A huge focus on multiplayer leaving a broken singleplayer in its wake would really take the wind out of my sales, even if the Wii didn't have its stupid online system.I've heard that it is considered an MMO, and there will be a subscription cost, though I haven't heard yet how much. While I've heard they will be working on a "solid" single-player campaign, it will likely end up being very party-centric.

[Doctor Setebos]

Okay, I could be wrong now. I found the article from Edge (http://www.edge-online.com/news/101/monster-hunter-wii-charges-subscription-fees) I had read earlier talking about Monster Hunter 3 having a monthly subscription.

However, that article is quoting a Siliconera article (http://www.siliconera.com/2009/03/11/monster-hunter-gs-online-mode-priced/) that talks about a monthly subscription for Monster Hunter G, which is a different game.

So now, I don't know what to believe. I guess we'll have to wait to hear from Capcom whether or not MH3 might have a monthly subscription.

[Sl1pstream]

PS2 game to PSP to Wii? Ugh...

Has online Wii play got any better?

It just looks like they're actively trying to find the platforms with the worst online functionality.

PS2 was pretty meh, PSP got better but they just ignored it and used ad-hoc and when the logical step would be to release this on the PS3 (which actually has decent online functionality), they've decided to bring it to the Wii, because friend codes are awesome.

Yes, the Wii is the most popular platform but if they're going for popularity, they would've released it on the DS instead of the PSP. If they were choosing graphics over install base (DS-PSP), they would've released this on PS3.

Not that I'm not enjoying the PSP version and I do have a Wii, but some online Monster Hunting would've been awesome. I'm not going to struggle with the friend codes system again.

[Doctor Setebos]

North America release confirmed (http://www.colonyofgamers.com/cogforums/showthread.php?t=10856).

[JayVe]

North America release confirmed (http://www.colonyofgamers.com/cogforums/showthread.php?t=10856).

Wow! Just what the Doctor ordered!

Thanks!

[Evil Avnovice]

Press release. (GoNintendo (http://gonintendo.com/viewstory.php?id=91714))

SAN MATEO, Calif. — August 3, 2009 — Capcom® Entertainment, a leading worldwide developer and publisher of video games, today announced that Monster Hunter™ Tri will be released in both North America and Europe for Nintendo’s Wii™ system in early 2010.

Monster Hunter Tri will set a new bar in the action/adventure genre with the introduction of new features and game play elements as the multi-million unit selling franchise makes its debut on the Wii system.

One of the most strikingly beautiful titles ever developed for Wii, Monster Hunter Tri depicts a living, breathing ecosystem where man co-exists with fantastic beasts that roam both the land and the sea. Featuring both online and offline cooperative modes, players can join online hunting parties with up to four players or play with two players on a single TV for select quests. Players also have the option to face Monster Hunter Tri’s challenging quests as a single player experience accompanied by Cha-Cha, an AI hunting partner whose tracking and trapping skills will prove invaluable in the hunt. New items, weapons and armor sets will also be available to assist the hunters as they embark on the most incredible Monster Hunter adventure to date.

“Fans of Nintendo and Monster Hunter are eagerly anticipating the launch of this title in the US, which will be the first time the series is available on a Nintendo home console,” said Steve Singer, Nintendo of America’s Vice President of Licensing. “Having Capcom bring Monster Hunter Tri to the Wii console provides tremendous action, fun and entertainment to both veteran players and series newcomers alike.”

Visitors to this month’s GamesCom European gaming convention in Cologne, Germany August 19-23, will be the first to sample a localized version of the title on Capcom’s stand as it makes its English debut for a western audience. GamesCom attendees will have the opportunity to play the same game that took last year’s Tokyo Game Show by storm, with lines that stretched around Capcom’s stand as eager Japanese gamers waited in excess of five hours to play.

This desire to be one of the first to experience Monster Hunter Tri is indicative of the impact the Monster Hunter franchise has made on videogame culture in Japan. With sales of the series totaling well over 10 million units and 3.5 million sales of Monster Hunter Portable™ 2ndG alone, it’s no surprise to find that Monster Hunter has given rise to dedicated “training camps”, country-wide festivals and numerous licensed products. The franchise doesn’t just top the charts in Japan; it’s become a social phenomenon.

More information on Monster Hunter Tri will be revealed in the upcoming months. In the meantime, please visit the official Capcom press site at http://press.capcom.com

[Evil Avnovice]

Details on the game's weekly quests in Japan. (Andriasang (http://www.andriasang.com/e/blog/2009/08/01/mh3_quests/))

Here's the initial event quest schedule using approximate (very, very approximate) English names. Required hunter rank is listed in parenthesis.

-Festival of Goods on the Unmanned Island: 8/1 to 8/9 (HR1)
-Hunt Two Royal Dorosu: 8/10 to 8/18 (HR9)
-Hunt Four Dosjagi Consecutively: 8/10 to 8/18 (HR1)
-Famitsu -- Clash of the Big Axes and Spears: 8/19 to 8/26 (HR18)
-Fishing Festival in the Submerged Forest: 8/19 to 8/26 (HR9)
-Front Lines of Equipment -- Battle of Men: 8/27 to 9/8 (HR9)
-Hunt For Ancient Sharks: 8/27 to 9/2 (HR1)

And here's the first set of tournament quests. These will be used at the August 23 installment of the Monster Hunter Festa '09 event.

-Arena Tournament! Defeat Kurupekko (HR1)
-Arena Tournament! Defeat Ragiakurus (HR1)

[Evil Avnovice]

1. Boat Intro Cinematic (http://www.gametrailers.com/video/boat-intro-monster-hunter/53832)
2. Online Intro Cinematic (http://www.gametrailers.com/video/online-intro-monster-hunter/53830)
3. Online Quest Gameplay (http://www.gametrailers.com/video/online-quest-monster-hunter/53831)

53830

[JayVe]

I read Famitsu gave it 40/40, with reviewers lavishing praise on the single player story

[Doctor Setebos]

I read Famitsu gave it 40/40, with reviewers lavishing praise on the single player storyI read that Famitsu has been doing that a lot lately (http://www.wired.com/gamelife/2009/08/famitsu-monster-hunter/), and that you really shouldn't give too much credibility to Japanese review scores. Apparently, they don't have any semblance of journalistic integrity. So they're basically GameSpot. :D

[Evil Avnovice]

Dengeki Online scans (http://news.dengeki.com/elem/000/000/186/186452/).

[Evil Avnovice]

Capcom shares some ideas in how to promote Monster Hunter 3 stateside. (Andriasang (http://www.andriasang.com/e/blog/2009/08/17/mh3_overseas_plans/))

The overseas version of the game won't see much in the way of customizations or changes from the Japanese version. More than that, explained Tsujimoto, Capcom's promotional staff is considering what areas of the game to promote to players in order to get them to know about the series.

One point about the game that Tsujimoto believes helps appeal to new players -- both overseas and in Japan -- is the new Wii-specific control scheme. This control scheme allows players to experience the "invigorating" feel of the game using the fewest possible buttons and without too much practice, he explained.

[Evil Avnovice]

Yes Capcom, we ignorant westerners would like voice chat very much, thank you. (GoNintendo (http://gonintendo.com/viewstory.php?id=93671); Revogamers (http://www.revogamers.net/fullNews.php?newsId=4012))

- "We love the idea of voice chat (WiiSpeak) and we know that it is a minimum for western players"
- online payment system not decided yet
- "Although connection ratio is lower in this console, in 20 days it has grown, and the amount of people playing online is growing every day."
- "Actually, we knew that the visual aspect is very important, so we set the graphics as our main goal. That's where we spent a lot of time. I think we have the best graphics on Wii".

[JayVe]

Here's a TGS interview where online play is confirmed for the western market.

56435

[JayVe]

North America gets new weapons, and a whole new network infrastructure. It is designed from the ground up for western markets.

57102

[Xerxes]

Well I did bring my Wii back into my room. I'll have to see how it works out for others who buy the game.

[JayVe]

Capcom is looking into removing monthly fees and adding voice chat for Monster Hunter III's western release.

(removing fees is) something that we're looking into at the moment and there are a few factors to consider. Firstly, Monster Hunter isn't as popular in the West, so it might put people off. Secondly, Japan doesn't have Friend Codes, so Capcom run all the servers and the monthly fee is essentially to pay for those costs. - Chris Kramer, Capcom USA Senior Director of Communications and Community

We're looking into a bunch a different things and one of the things is definitely like, a lot of users have asked for voice chat. We're looking into right now whether it's technically possible or not. And so if it is, maybe we'll make an announcement. If it isn't, you know, if it realistically can't be done, then I'm sorry we may have to leave it out. But we're looking into it. - Capcom Producer Ryozo Tsjmoto (http://www.gonintendo.com/viewstory.php?id=99253)

[Gorvi]

Voice chat will really be key for this game, I hope they add it. Though after not really enjoying the demo for Monster Hunter Freedom Unite, I'm not too sure I'm even interested in the game any more.

[Vigil80]

I've always wanted to play Monster Hunter, and always hated that it never seems to come out on a platform I already own. A shame too, since the PS3 seemed like a natural fit for the game. I don't understand how Wii ended up with the exclusive.

If I can find a deal on a Wii, maybe I'll just have to grab one.

[Evil Avnovice]

According to Siliconera (http://www.siliconera.com/2010/02/01/monster-hunter-tri-supports-wii-speak/), WiiSpeak in confirmed for the North American release.

[JayVe]

Voice chat will really be key for this game, I hope they add it.

Done and done!

[Gorvi]

Done and done!
Yep, I saw that, that is damn good news. I'm really tempted to grab the Classic Controller bundle, I'm in need of one anyway. I'll just have to track down a cheap Wii Speak unit on eBay. :)

[JayVe]

Monster Hunter III will be free to play online here in the USA according to Kotaku. Sorry, can't link to it from this computer. :(

[JayVe]

Here's the link with more details

http://wii.nintendolife.com/news/2010/02/capcom_reveals_everything_you_want_to_know_about_m onster_hunter_3

Free online play, WiiSpeak support and more

Among all the other tidbits and release dates coming out of Nintendo's American Media Summit today, Capcom confirmed the hopes and dreams of Western monster hunters by announcing a whole slew of things about Monster Hunter 3 Tri.

The game has been given a solid release date of April 20 with a demo disc hitting GameStop's across the country on March 8. Wii Speak support is in and online play will cost zero dollars. The game will also be optionally bundled with the Classic Controller Pro.

[Gorvi]

I need to get my hands on that demo. I love the concept of Monster Hunter but I really didn't care for what I've played of the PSP game that came out last year.

[Xerxes]

Here's the link with more details

http://wii.nintendolife.com/news/2010/02/capcom_reveals_everything_you_want_to_know_about_m onster_hunter_3

That sounds nice.

[Evil Avnovice]

There are two methods to obtaining a free Monster Hunter 3 demo. (zsaberlink (http://zsaberlink.wordpress.com/2010/02/27/how-to-get-a-demo-of-monster-hunter-tri/))

[Doctor Setebos]

Hey, guys! The demo disc should be in your local GameStop by now. Pick it up and give it a try!

[Gorvi]

Hey, guys! The demo disc should be in your local GameStop by now. Pick it up and give it a try!
Do you have to preorder or can you just pick it up?

[Doctor Setebos]

Do you have to preorder or can you just pick it up?You're supposed to be able to just pick it up with absolutely no obligation. However, I've been hearing rumors that the sneaky fucks at GameStop have been telling people that they need to pre-order. Just an FYI, that's not true (http://www.capcom-unity.com/jgonzo/blog/2010/02/24/monster_hunter_tri_demo__pre-order_clarification). I read on Twitter that one person was actually denied the demo because he refused to pre-order.

I really dislike GameStop. :mad:

[Evil Avnovice]

Since the bump in this thread reminded me, as there was something I wanted to post here, and will simultaneously answer Gorvi's/everyone's question: This can be used as a nice counter "Fuck You", should GameStop try and tell you otherwise. (Capcom Unity (http://www.capcom-unity.com/jgonzo/blog/2010/02/24/monster_hunter_tri_demo__pre-order_clarification))

....most important: the Monster Hunter Tri demo (which will be available to pick up in Gamestop stores starting March 8th) will be free to all. No pre-order required. Just head on over to Gamestop on that date and pick it up. If you like it, then we can hope that you'll pre-order it.

[Gorvi]

Thanks Doc and Avnovice. I really need to make time to get this sometime during the week then. The game looks fantastic, but the only MH exposure I've had is the PSP demo for the latest game, which I didn't really care for.

[Iron Past]

If you guys are curious, GameStop is getting around the 'no need to preorder' deal by 'bundling' the demo disc with 500 Wii points. Told the guy to bite me, and that I wasn't going to preorder a game I didn't know if I liked. Capcom, you've potentially lost a sale because GameStop's fucking stupid.

[Gorvi]

Is it only at GameStop? Yes, I'm being lazy, but one of you should know. :p I'm stopping by Toys R Us on my way home to grab Final Fantasy XIII, so if I can grab the demo in the same trip that'd be great.

[Doctor Setebos]

Is it only at GameStop? Yes, I'm being lazy, but one of you should know. :p I'm stopping by Toys R Us on my way home to grab Final Fantasy XIII, so if I can grab the demo in the same trip that'd be great.As far as I know, yes, it is only GameStop.

[Vigil80]

Unless they've made some big changes since the PSP versions, this is a pass.

It's such a good idea, but I'm unconvinced they can succeed in implementation.

[Evil Avnovice]

If you guys are curious, GameStop is getting around the 'no need to preorder' deal by 'bundling' the demo disc with 500 Wii points. Told the guy to bite me, and that I wasn't going to preorder a game I didn't know if I liked. Capcom, you've potentially lost a sale because GameStop's fucking stupid.

I would have done the same thing and refused if that had happened to me. I swung my this morning to snatch a demo disc, and the dimwitted bitch who took me didn't have a clue as to what I was talking about.

Me: "I'd like to ask if you have the Monster Hunter III demo disc today."

Dimwitted bitch: "Huh? Monster 4 x 4?"

She asked another employee about it, and I mentioned it (the demo disc) to that person. The dimwitted bitch then pointed out to the small display of *surprisehttp://www.mazeguy.net/basic/sarcastic.gif* Monster Hunter III demo discs that I mentioned earlier.

Dimwitted bitch: "Um, that's the only other one, if that's what you're talking about."*http://www.mazeguy.net/basic/sarcastic.gif*

So, just when I think I'm about to score, the other one (and I saw the sign advertising the pre-order nonsense from the corner of my eye) told me I had to reserve it, to which I told her about how the Capcom Unity article. The employee attempts to give me both the pre-order nonsense and then call her manager just to make sure, all while I was telling her that I don't need to pre-order, courtesy of Capcom.

http://i758.photobucket.com/albums/xx230/Avnovice/Miscellaneous/2010-03-09105017.jpg

http://i758.photobucket.com/albums/xx230/Avnovice/Miscellaneous/2010-03-09105122.jpg

Even though Doctor Setebos beat me to posting it, my saving grace was having seen the Capcom Unity post just a few days earlier myself.

[Evil Avnovice]

Is it only at GameStop? Yes, I'm being lazy, but one of you should know. :p I'm stopping by Toys R Us on my way home to grab Final Fantasy XIII, so if I can grab the demo in the same trip that'd be great.

Going off the Capcom Unity link, they're saying GameStop, but if you manage to get it somewhere else, more power to you. ;)

[Doctor Setebos]

I picked one up after work today. No hassles at all, which surprised me. First time in a GameStop in over two years. :D

[Iron Past]

Be sure and give impressions. I totally planned on preordering the Classic Controller Pro bundle anyway, but I was a little pissed at GameStop for just giving Capcom (and customers) a giant middle finger after they cut a deal with them. I have a legitimate worry over the controls, though; I attribute some of the prior awkwardness to the PSP being laid out kind of poorly, but I won't pick this up if they haven't made some strides in control scheme.

[JayVe]

At GameStop, the corporate office closely watches number of reservations for each store and employee. What the corporate office hates more than not getting a reservation, is losing a reservation. You can cancel your reservation at any time, getting all of your money back.

So, if you encounter a GameStop employee who is giving you a difficult time, simply reserve a bunch of games from him. When you cancel all of your reservation, you'll get your money back and put a black mark on the employee's record.

[Urizen]

I called three GS in my radius before finding one that was giving away the demo disc. The other two required the pre-order, and insisted it's like that across the board.

The third store just had discs on the main counter for people to pick up for themselves. They weren't even in the cupboards or behind glass.

At GameStop, the corporate office closely watches number of reservations for each store and employee. What the corporate office hates more than not getting a reservation, is losing a reservation. You can cancel your reservation at any time.

So, if you encounter a GameStop employee who is giving you a difficult time, simply reserve a bunch of games from him. When you cancel all of your reservation, you'll get your money back and put a black mark on the employee's record.

Good to know. I'm totally doing this next time.

[Doctor Setebos]

I called three GS in my radius before finding one that was giving away the demo disc. The other two required the pre-order, and insisted it's like that across the board.

The third store just had discs on the main counter for people to pick up for themselves. They weren't even in the cupboards or behind glass.NONE of them should have required a pre-order. That's fucking lame.

Your third store did it right. They should just be sitting out on the counter for anyone to just pick up.

[Xerxes]

I'd rather you guys tell me it's proper. Demos aren't really my bag.

[Evil Avnovice]

I meant to post my impressions earlier this morning before heading to work, but I like what I've played so far of the demo, and automatically understand the appeal of Monster Hunter (hunting down big game with big weapons).

The controls are easy to pick up, and depending on the weapon you choose, the button layout slightly differs even though the basic functions (attacking, dodging) remain the same. There were two things about the control schemes that I did find odd:

1. When swimming, you have to manually move the camera to dive deeper underwater or surface.

2. Maybe I can't call this a complaint, but for some reason, Monster Hunter III cries for either a lock-on, or that I should hope that Capcom can make it easier to swing a weapon at prey. Most of the weapons provided in the demo are of the slow-but-insanely-powerful variety, which is fine, but the creatures you're tasked to hunt in the the two quests provided to you are very agile, and I had my fair share of whiffs just as much as landing some severe blows (knocking creatures for a loop with a well timed blow is satisfying).

And while the two quests are 20 minute timed affairs, I had just as much fun ignoring my target and just taking in the sights and doing a little exploring on the side.

[Camel]

2. Maybe I can't call this a complaint, but for some reason, Monster Hunter III cries for either a lock-on, or that I should hope that Capcom can make it easier to swing a weapon at prey. Most of the weapons provided in the demo are of the slow-but-insanely-powerful variety, which is fine, but the creatures you're tasked to hunt in the the two quests provided to you are very agile, and I had my fair share of whiffs just as much as landing some severe blows (knocking creatures for a loop with a well timed blow is satisfying).

I can't believe that there STILL isn't some kind of lock-on feature in Monster Hunter (although I've only played two of the games...maybe some older versions actually let you lock on to enemies). It feels pretty ridiculous to me.

[Evil Avnovice]

I can't believe that there STILL isn't some kind of lock-on feature in Monster Hunter (although I've only played two of the games...maybe some older versions actually let you lock on to enemies). It feels pretty ridiculous to me.

I am not well versed with the series, as this demo of Monster Hunter III is my first exposure to the games.

[Goronmon]

I think the lack of a lock-in on is a gameplay choice for Monster Hunter. Almost the entire game is solely about combating huge monsters and lock-on is well...easy-mode when it comes to third-person combat

[JayVe]

From a recent preview (http://www.shacknews.com/onearticle.x/62804):

I cannot truly explain why Tri was so much more accessible to me as it had all of the same gameplay elements as previous series entries, but it just worked. It is also being sold bundled with the new Classic Controller Pro, which is a must-buy for any Wii owners that use a Classic Controller.

Finally, the online system is skipping the Friend Codes and using a name and ID system unique to Tri.

[Gorvi]

How does it play with the Wiimote/Nunchuck combo? I don't have a classic controller yet, so that bundle is looking damn nice to me. I should have the demo today assuming they still have them, I'll grab it when I pick up my God of War 3 pre-order.

[Evil Avnovice]

How does it play with the Wiimote/Nunchuck combo? I don't have a classic controller yet, so that bundle is looking damn nice to me. I should have the demo today assuming they still have them, I'll grab it when I pick up my God of War 3 pre-order.

I think it controls pretty well. A is used to attack, Z to block. The C button is used to center the camera, and you can hold it down and browse through your inventory, which can then be used with "1". Dodging is executed with the B button. Minus sheathes/draws your weapon, and Plus pulls up the menu (game will still run).

I was thinking about testing out the classic controller, but I've been pretty good with the wii-mote/nunchuck combo.

[Gorvi]

I think it controls pretty well. A is used to attack, Z to block. The C button is used to center the camera, and you can hold it down and browse through your inventory, which can then be used with "1". Dodging is executed with the B button. Minus sheathes/draws your weapon, and Plus pulls up the menu (game will still run).

I was thinking about testing out the classic controller, but I've been pretty good with the wii-mote/nunchuck combo.
Nice, that sounds like it'll work very well. :)

[Iron Past]

Ugh, the demo reminded me why I never use the sword/shield combo in Monster Hunter. It has translated very nicely to the Wii, but I'm a little disappointed they really haven't added anything new to the mechanics of the game or making it move better. The attack buttons, at least, seemed squishy and didn't want to register very well, but I can totally (and hopefully) attribute that it being a prerelease demo. I may have missed the instructional parts of the menu that give you handling tips as well. Either way, it's a Monster Hunter on the console, both good and bad, and that's all I wanted to know.

Of course I'll still get it, in the nice Classic Controller Pro bundle, but I hope they've put a little more effort into the transition than seemed apparent so far; putting dozens and dozens of hours into it and barely being able to finish a mid-level quest is more suited to a handheld than a console. So, I guess what I'm saying is I would die of happiness if a western developer would make a Monster Hunter type game. :)

[Gorvi]

I've got my demo, I got the last one they had in the store. Hopefully I'll get a chance to try it soon if I can pull myself away from GoW3 and FFXIII.

[JayVe]

Monster Hunter Tri to have downloadable quests available (http://kotaku.com/5513730/monster-hunter-tri-keeps-going-and-going).

Capcom plans on introducing special Event Quests, Gigantic Monster Quests, and Arena Quests on a regular basis, making this one Wii title worth leaving in the drive.

Event Quests are quests that present a variety of challenges for up to four players, with level requirements that'll give aspiring hunters something to work towards.

Gigantic Monster Quests will only be available one day at a time. Players will team up against the great and terrible Jhen Mohran on a sailing ship, firing cannons to attract its attention before finishing it off mano-a-monstero.

Arena Quests pit two players against singular monsters, with rewards doled out based on how fast the monsters go down.

A monthly calendar of events will be posted on the first Friday of every month at Capcom's Unity blog.

That's a whole lot of game right there. Perhaps I better unwrap my GameStop demo and see what's what before I'm left in the dust.

[Tayaya]

I picked it up yesterday, in bundle form with the Classic Controller Pro. Let's get the controller out of the way first.

You'd be a fool not to get the bundle - it's $10 more, and even if you already have a classic controller, the Pro feels so much nicer in your hands that it's still worth it, plus a second controller is always welcome for another player. But yes, the shape of the classic controller pro is absolutely perfect. It feels like it was made specifically for my hands. And proper ZL and ZR buttons are welcome (and used) in MH3. A superb peripheral for $10 that's useful for other games a well? Definitely a good deal.

Now, onto the game itself - It's Monster Hunter through and through. Not much has changed for those that are already familiar with the game. The art style's still the same blend of tribal and fantasy, the people still live in ramshackle huts. There's still a farm staffed by weird cat people. Item selection in combat is still awkward at first but makes sense once you get used to it. There's still no lock-on. There's still loads of crafting. Blah blah blah.

Where it's better, however, is in getting the player started. Rather than just saying "go ahead and talk to this schmuck to be presented with 50 some odd tutorials, that take hours to complete," MH3 starts you with some basic "go here and deliver item X to person Y" tasks, and teaches you along the way how to gather, how to fight, and even how to craft eventually. It also gradually opens up the extras, like farming, managing the fishing fleet, and the Guild. What this amounts to is a game that's a lot more friendly to the beginner, who is less likely to feel overwhelmed.

The initial Quests from the guild are also a cakewalk compared to the stuff in MH2 Freedom Unite, but on par with the quests you would get from the old woman in that game (you know, the place you are SUPPOSED to start, even though the game keeps telling you about the damn Guild).

The visuals are nice, but like anything on the wii look like garbage on an HDTV. The gameplay is solid, but by design there's no lock-on and certain things feel clunky initially, until you adapt to the controls. My only true complaint is that even when using the Classic Controller, you need to use the Wiimote to add monsters to to your monster guide, all while making sure said monsters don't kill you... it's a little rough but eventually you develop a technique for it. Haven't played online yet. Planning on finishing my full set of Hunter's armor before venturing online. Upgrading my weapon to the Bone Kris + was a brilliant idea - it's so much stronger than the starter weapon (playing sword and shield for now).

I played a BUNCH yesterday, probably 4-5 hours worth. All in all I'm really pleased with the game, and already I've gotten into a lot more than I ever could with MH2 Freedom or Freedom Unite, though I do plan to start playing Unite on my PSP again, now that I'm truly starting to "get" what Monster Hunter is all about.

I commend Capcom for taking a lot out of the game's formerly steep learning curve. They made the game a lot more accessible, while still keeping everything at the core exactly the same, just a bit prettier. In many was this is what a sequel ought to be.

[MachEnergy]

I played around 2 hours of the single player, and it felt like the game was barely even starting. Coming from having only played a tiny amount of Monster Hunter 2, I see a lot of potential. Having earned some armor and items, I left the solo mode and joined up with a friend online.

Online play works very similarly to what I remember of Phantasy Star Online. You pick a server, then a city, and then a gate. Once in there, you can find your friends that you want to party-up with. We fought monsters, cooked meat, shopped, and performed silly routines using gestures.

All this was made pretty easy using the Wii Speak microphone. At first, Wii Speak is really awkward. There's nothing in your ear or hanging off your head. You just...talk. It does a good job at canceling out the game sounds, preventing too much echo, however the algorithm is not perfect as you still get SOME game sound. Nothing too distracting. My problem is that I seem to have a hard time hearing my friend speak over all the game sounds. I like things loud, what can I say? I resent that I have to turn down my game because Nintendo won't give me an earpiece option. Whatever. It's still a neat toy.

I hope that I see this game through. I'm notoriously ADD with games recently, yet this one seems like a PSO experience that I could really enjoy. It's too bad that my friend and I are on opposite coasts, and that it's only the two of us. I could see myself playing this game at every available opportunity.

[Adam Blue]

What is the combat like? Zelda? Or more turn-based-RPG-in-real-time combat?

[MachEnergy]

What is the combat like? Zelda? Or more turn-based-RPG-in-real-time combat?

Sort of like Zelda...

It's a tad slow, but it all depends on your weapon choice. I use a gigantic sword, so my swings are all very slow and take a while to recover from. My friend plays with a sword a shield, and he is more nimble and recovers quickly.

[Adam Blue]

I just watched a video that did make it look like Zelda to my surprise. It even looked like the character was doing combat rolls to dodge? If so, I'm sold.

[MachEnergy]

One small complaint I have (and this applies to many games): I hate taking my time to finely craft a character to look the way I want them to, only to buy a piece of head armor that covers up their hair and face. If I knew this was going to be a covered-head game, I wouldn't have cared so much about my avatar's face, eyes, and hair details.

</Minor Gripe>

[Tayaya]

One small complaint I have (and this applies to many games): I hate taking my time to finely craft a character to look the way I want them to, only to buy a piece of head armor that covers up their hair and face. If I knew this was going to be a covered-head game, I wouldn't have cared so much about my avatar's face, eyes, and hair details.

</Minor Gripe>

You can always man up and go without headgear. For the first couple of hunter ranks, you'll be OK, but eventually you'll want the added protection.

[Widgetcraft]

I just watched a video that did make it look like Zelda to my surprise. It even looked like the character was doing combat rolls to dodge? If so, I'm sold.

That's pretty much the game. You have to play defensively though, you can't just go batshit crazy on a monster, or it will pwn you.

[Ravenlock]

Based on my experience with the demo, the combat is extremely methodical and getting the pacing correct is critical. Swings take long enough to perform and recover from (and so do other really important actions like, say, drinking a potion) that if you start them at the wrong moment you're opening yourself up to taking a LOT of damage. You can actually drink a potion and end up worse off, if you start the animation at the wrong time.

I think if I got good at it, I could probably really enjoy it - there's a lot of depth there, and the online functionality sounds great. I'm just not sure that I want to put the time in to get it all figured out.

I did pick up a Classic Controller Pro separately last night. It's great, and everyone should have one for Virtual Console games and others that use the CC, whether or not they get Monster Hunter.

[rein]

I hope my Gamefly copy arrives today. I'm going to pick up a classic controller regardless. Looking at my keep it now price and a coupon it will only cost me $30 if I decide to keep the game. That still gets me about $10 under the bundle price.

[Shjinta]

That's pretty much the game. You have to play defensively though, you can't just go batshit crazy on a monster, or it will pwn you.

There goes my Morning Drink.

[rein]

I ran out and picked up a classic controller pro and the game arrived but I can't play until I get finished with work. I have a quick question for those playing. Is it worth it to use the classic controller pro? I will lose the wireless controller the wii-mote provides but if it controls much easier then I suppose it will be worth it.

*I'm a tool.

[JayVe]

I thought this game wasn't in stores until Friday.

Damn. There goes my evening.

[Orca]

Tried to play with a friend and it was just ridiculous to get set up. I couldn't send him a message or add him as a friend until he was online, then we couldn't get Wii Speak to work (he had to go buy one, as you can't hear what someone is saying without both having it), and then once it was all up and running the voice quality was all over the place. He'd be decently clear for a minute or two, then it'd be like a subway speaker announcing train arrivals.

[Ravenlock]

If there were no friend codes involved, that's still less ridiculous than pretty much every other Wii game. ;) Few if any of them have awareness of people who aren't actively online, as far as I know.

I've found Wii Speak to be pretty good in Animal Crossing, but that's the only game I've used it with - well, that and the Wii Speak channel, which has also been pretty reliable. Hopefully you'll find that it's more hit than miss, over time.

[Widgetcraft]

Tried to play with a friend and it was just ridiculous to get set up. I couldn't send him a message or add him as a friend until he was online, then we couldn't get Wii Speak to work (he had to go buy one, as you can't hear what someone is saying without both having it), and then once it was all up and running the voice quality was all over the place. He'd be decently clear for a minute or two, then it'd be like a subway speaker announcing train arrivals.

I have some friends playing it, and they just use Skype. It's easier and the voice quality is better. I guess that only works if you're sitting at your computer, though.

[Food Nipple]

Jboy and I are hoping on now to run a few one star quests if anyone is interested.

[OldJadedGamer]

Tried to play with a friend and it was just ridiculous to get set up. I couldn't send him a message or add him as a friend until he was online, then we couldn't get Wii Speak to work (he had to go buy one, as you can't hear what someone is saying without both having it), and then once it was all up and running the voice quality was all over the place. He'd be decently clear for a minute or two, then it'd be like a subway speaker announcing train arrivals.

My buddy and I are picking it up and we will just go into a 360 party chat in order to play and hear each other. This is what we did with Little Big Planet and it seemed to work out fine.

[ReaverX]

I just picked up the game today as well. I don't have Wii Speak and I have yet to try the online modes, but since there's no stupid friend code nonsense maybe it'll be easier to set up some co op games.

[Orca]

My buddy and I are picking it up and we will just go into a 360 party chat in order to play and hear each other. This is what we did with Little Big Planet and it seemed to work out fine.

That's probably what we'll end up doing if we can't get it worked out the next time we play.

[x Returner x]

I'm up for some MH3 tonight. I like the xbox live party idea. If anybody wants to play send a message through live. I'll be on tonight 7pm pst

[JayVe]

I won't be able to get this game until the weekend. :(

[Lekon]

Skype, Ventrillio, even XBL works, Or a USB keyboard all work well. I can't even see where you'd use friend codes, but the ID's are a little less insane than FC's anyways.

That, and the game lets you search by name or ID number, both handy! I'm Lekon, bumming around the newbie areas a bit more.

[Lekon]

Been playing the game a bit more and what really strikes me is how much streamlining was done. Less steps to crafting. More items per run (Aside from the hard to find stuff.)

The online's a hoot. I've finally gotten a decent enough longsword and armor to do some body cutting on the monsters. Lewt rocks.

[JayVe]

Started playing over the weekend. Didn't make it too far. There is a LOT to get into, but I'm digging it. The whole game has a cool feel to it. I was expecting the thing to be more frantic and less paced.

[Jboy001]

I really like this game, I just don't know how much time I can dedicate to it.
This kind of thing is why I stopped playing MMO's the are great fun but being able to keep up with your friends and quest with them starts becoming a chore.

That said if people want to play and don't mind slumming it with a rank 2 hunter hit me up on here or xbox live.

[Lekon]

Started playing over the weekend. Didn't make it too far. There is a LOT to get into, but I'm digging it. The whole game has a cool feel to it. I was expecting the thing to be more frantic and less paced.

Wait until you actually start hunting Wyverns and Dragons. Theeen comes the frantic.

Just started trying to take down a Barioth. It is a cross a Saber Tooth Tiger, a Bat, Several Spikes, and many anger issues.

I used to be pretty good, but god damn they changed around some monsters. Rathian's still fairly easy (maybe easier with the new lance moves) But Rathalos is a pain. Bastard almost never stays on the ground.

[MachEnergy]

I played a bit more this weekend. Had a chance to play with a friend and 2 people he found and had been questing with. I am still in the early quests, but it was fun doing it with 4 players. Fighting bosses was pretty great too.

Some things I disliked, however:


When the boss starts to get hurt, it will run to a different zone. In a slow game like this, that fucking sucks. I HATE having to chase down enemies in most games, but it's amplified by a ton when movement is generally slow and zones are small and close together and have loading times between them.
When a person dies (sorry, *faints*), the value for the quest is reduced. This sucks when fighting bosses.
When you run out of potions, if you don't have the materials to craft new ones, you will have to run back to camp and take a nap to heal. Then you'll have to run all the way back to where you left your activity. This sucks when fighting bosses.


Despite those nitpicks, I'm really enjoying this game. Being a Monster Hunter noob can suck, but with time, I could really see myself getting hardcore.

[Lekon]

One small complaint I have (and this applies to many games): I hate taking my time to finely craft a character to look the way I want them to, only to buy a piece of head armor that covers up their hair and face. If I knew this was going to be a covered-head game, I wouldn't have cared so much about my avatar's face, eyes, and hair details.
Some things I disliked, however:

* When the boss starts to get hurt, it will run to a different zone. In a slow game like this, that fucking sucks. I HATE having to chase down enemies in most games, but it's amplified by a ton when movement is generally slow and zones are small and close together and have loading times between them.
* When a person dies (sorry, *faints*), the value for the quest is reduced. This sucks when fighting bosses.
* When you run out of potions, if you don't have the materials to craft new ones, you will have to run back to camp and take a nap to heal. Then you'll have to run all the way back to where you left your activity. This sucks when fighting bosses.



To help Mach: First if you do Arena mode (Online or off) You can get coins which are trade able either for unique armor, or for Ear Rings. The ear rings work like head armor with giant skill boosts, very popular for those who like to keep the head showing.

The bosses run/hide because they don't want to die. That's part of the trick. ALWAYS paintball the bastards so they can't hide. Nothing worse than playing "Find the bastard to stab". It is possible to stop them from running, but it usually requires more luck and gear than you'll have on hand.

The other two things you mentioned are.. well, part of the challenge. Always bring a bunch of potions and some extra honey to make more mega potions. (Potion+ Honey = Mega Potion. Yum.) If you're playing single player, once the farm gets going you'll be swimming in plants/shrooms/honey anyways. Online, the whole 3 deaths total thing is a reason why gunners tend to be loved, their healing shots are good, and they aren't in the melee, so less chance they'll get killed by a friendly swing.
(Swings don't do damage to other players but *do* knock them into danger/lower their stamina if blocking)

Other tips: Don't sell anything. Unless it says "Sell this for some change" don't sell it unless you have at least 10 in the box. Never sell any ore. Without doing spoilers, there are some items that require damn near a few hundred ore if you can build them up, so its a good idea to have them.

Main tip: The weapons are basically entirely different playstyles. Hammer's nothing like Longsword, Switchaxe is nothing like Reality, etc. Play with each of them in the free roam area until you get one that you say "daaaayum. I like that". That's your clue. I usually stick to either Lance, or Longsword lately, depending on the enemy. Eventually you'll probably have a golfbag of weapons depending on what you're hunting, and 2 or 3 suits of armor. Thats a ways down the line though.
Ninja Edit: In the online mode, in the city, there's a cat with a cart, near one of the workshop entrances who offers to brainstorm. This guy is how you get furniture to make your offline or online home look better. Just go see him and drop an item off, and in 3 quests online, he'll be ready to advance the bar a bit. wash, repeat, get new furniture. When he's ready, a little icon will blink in town that looks like a tusk on a stand, Or an upside down rotary phone.

[ReaverX]

(Tips)
Good stuff, man. Monster Hunter is pretty confusing (and difficult) for the first time player. It has a pretty steep learning curve, but that being said this is the best one to jump on board with because of all the streamlining they've done.

Lekon is right, Mach. Once you've played for a while most of this stuff is second nature. It just takes some time.

Make sure to keep an eye on your health when fighting bosses. if you start to get low, use your dodge roll and wait for and opening to use your potions rather than use them right away. If you use them at the wrong time, your character will still be in the healing animation while the monster is barreling down on you for a killing blow. Keep your cool and be patient.

[MachEnergy]

Thanks Lekon!

Make sure to keep an eye on your health when fighting bosses. if you start to get low, use your roll and wait for and opening to use your potions rather than use them right away. If you use them at the wrong time, your character will still be in the healing animation while the monster is barreling down on you for a killing blow. Keep your cool and be patient.

Lol, how right you are! There were a few times I was punted in the air, potion bottle in hand, going ARGH WTF!?!?!

[Lekon]

The streamlining is just awesome. What used to take 3 steps takes one. Most things are now one step easy (Gathering, etc).

I still can't count the number of deaths I have during reload, or that drink/flex animation the characters do. Ugh. Depending on the weapon I have, sometimes I just run out of the area to do a quick sharpen/heal. (Usually if I'm lancing, I do that.)

Keeping cool is the hardest part, depending on your weapon of choice. With Lance, you can block *anything* that you'll be facing for quite some time, and can even do a sort of parry that knocks the damage away. (Based on stamina). Meanwhile with Longsword/hammer, you best be dodging, and dodging a lot. Eventually you'll start to learn the various enemies tells, and some enemies are just easy with certain weapons. However, For gods sake, if you're a newb, don't try the guns. They are really more meant for later on when you have some cash to make/buy ammo for them. Those bowguns can be intensely frustrating to try and use single player as well.

Edit: I usually go into any map with 10 potions, 10 mega potions, however many welldone steaks I have handy, however many paintballs (Sap plant+paintberry) I can hold, 5 pickaxes, 10 whetstones, and a drink of whatever is the area I'm going into (Hot for the ice fields, cold for desert, etc.) Its just a good idea to always bring pickaxes. The farms can bring you plants/bugs, the fishermen can bring you fish, but there's no automated way to get ore, so a mining you should go anytime you're in any area past the D.Island or the Forest. Those rare ores are handy.

[zarathstra]

If I get this job I'm interviewing for today, I am totally giving myself this game as a present.

[JayVe]

If I get this job I'm interviewing for today, I am totally giving myself this game as a present.

Good luck!

[Lekon]

If I get this job I'm interviewing for today, I am totally giving myself this game as a present.

Indeed! Hope you get the job.

My guy just got a hell of a sword. I was killing Rathians to try and get a plate (Needed for the chest armor). No luck. Killed a bunch of the greenies too, then a Rathalos to get the quest done.

Then at checking the shop? "Wyvern Blade "Fire" Longsword, better stats, sharpness, and even damage than anything short of a hammer that I had access too. So now I'm happily mobbing around and killing things with a big katana that makes explosions on each hit. Life is good.

[ReaverX]

Then at checking the shop? "Wyvern Blade "Fire" Longsword, better stats, sharpness, and even damage than anything short of a hammer that I had access too. So now I'm happily mobbing around and killing things with a big katana that makes explosions on each hit. Life is good.

I freaking love that sword. That was the main one I used in Monster Hunter Freedom Unite, but I think I had it upgraded to the " Blood" iteration. That thing was slicing through stuff like a hot knife through butter. :D

[Lekon]

I freaking love that sword. That was the main one I used in Monster Hunter Freedom Unite, but I think I had it upgraded to the " Blood" iteration. That thing was slicing through stuff like a hot knife through butter. :D

The sword is a freaking demon. Anything that's not fire resistant gets pasted. Its great for the drake off the cover (L-something?) so I'm working on getting a suit of his armor, to replace my old stuff.

[Troggles]

Just picked the game up this weekend. It's my first foray into the world of MH. I've decided to stick with lance combat for now. I felt the GS was too slow and SnS has no range. Just finished all the one star quests.

[rein]

I have a noob question. If you are fighting a monster and leave an area, does his HP reset or does the damage stay? I'm thinking how much easier healing up and sharpening blades will be if you can exit an area against larger mobs and then return with the damage you have already inflicted still in place.

[EWolfmanD]

The damage stays, and that's a good tactic to use. :)

[rein]

The damage stays, and that's a good tactic to use. :)
Thanks... ...I just faced off against the great Jaggi on my first large hunt and I was nervous. It turns out I didn't really need that tactic on this fight but I will definitely keep that in mind when I face off against tougher opponents. I guess even with the SnS you can run in circles and pick them apart. :)

..now I have to figure out how to capture one. :(

[DiBiddilyBop]

Out of curiosity, I have a Wii Classic controller. Will I need a Classic Pro in order to play this?

[Lekon]

Thanks... ...I just faced off against the great Jaggi on my first large hunt and I was nervous. It turns out I didn't really need that tactic on this fight but I will definitely keep that in mind when I face off against tougher opponents. I guess even with the SnS you can run in circles and pick them apart. :)

..now I have to figure out how to capture one. :(

3 steps:
1: Beat on it until its limping away. (Paint it so you know where it goes)
2. Go to where it is, lay either a shock or pit trap and lure it in (easier than it seems)
3. Lob Tranq bombs or shoot tranq ammo at it. 2 shots and it'll go to sleep, and you get the capture. Tranq bombs are always in the supply chest of capture missions, or can be made with Sleep Herb+Para-shroom.

Edit; Wii classic/wii classic pro are the same thing, mechanics wise. Just the pro has handy grips to use. If you've got the classic and like it, no need to get a pro.

[ReaverX]

Out of curiosity, I have a Wii Classic controller. Will I need a Classic Pro in order to play this?

No, the regular classic controller works fine. The pro just has a better feel.

Edit: More specifically, the only differences between the two controllers are the grips on the sides, the Button placement of the Zl and Zr buttons (moved under L and R similar to a PS controller) more spacing between the analog sticks and the cord now comes from the top instead of the bottom of the controller. Precisely the same functionality, they just added cosmetic changes to make it more comfortable.

[Food Nipple]

I feel like I've hit a brick wall. I can kill the Great Jaggi no problem by myself using the hammer, but the monsters after that completely wreck me. I've spent the full time limit fighting the Qurupeco, and the Great Ludroth absolutely destroys me.

[ReaverX]

I feel like I've hit a brick wall. I can kill the Great Jaggi no problem by myself using the hammer, but the monsters after that completely wreck me. I've spent the full time limit fighting the Qurupeco, and the Great Ludroth absolutely destroys me.

What kind of armor are you using? It might be time for an upgrade if you're loosing too much health. Also try using a couple other different weapons. Certain weapons that may work well for one monster, may not work well for another.

Edit: Also, don't be afraid to go back to previous quests and do them again in order to get components for weapon upgrades. That's the only way to progress sometimes.

If they're still kicking your ass, try hopping online and doing the quest with more people.

[Food Nipple]

What kind of armor are you using? It might be time for an upgrade if you're loosing too much health. Also try using a couple other different weapons. Certain weapons that may work well for one monster, may not work well for another.

Yeah, the hammer just isn't doing it against the Qurupeco, I think the fight is taking so long because I'm missing a lot. Armor wise, I'm using bone armor against Qurupeco for the fire resistance, and Jaggi armor for the Ludroth.

[rein]

I bought a CCP but I find the wii-mote works better for me. At least it has so far using the sword and shield. Who knows if that will change in with future weapons. I only wish they would have allowed button mapping. Maybe then I would like using the CCP more.

[Lekon]

Yeah, the hammer just isn't doing it against the Qurupeco, I think the fight is taking so long because I'm missing a lot. Armor wise, I'm using bone armor against Qurupeco for the fire resistance, and Jaggi armor for the Ludroth.

Probably your weapon or technqiue. I use a Lance or Longsword vs those two. Hammer I usually use more for Rathian or a few others. Likely your problem with the hammer is, well, using the face buttons. Most of the time with hammer you want to be doing charge up attacks, either the standing still super pound, or the moving forward spin/golfswing combo. Keep your finger on that R bumper!

Other tips I can think of: For Qur, he doesn't have a lot of attacks, mostly yells, so you can get away with pounding his face/chest in quite a bit. As soon as he starts clacking the flints on his wings together, roll *towards* him, to get behind, or to his side. Once behind/beside, just walk in a circle pattern to keep him to your side. He can't turn very fast when doing the flint attack. He's also got a quick smack and backtrack move, so try to let cha cha or your team mates distract him and stay away from the front.

Mr. Ludoth on the other hand is a bit different. His tells are a bit nastier. Try to keep an eye on his head. He'll rear back and do a little head turn before he rolls to the side (Which usually smooshes you. That's a technical term.) He'll also rear up to spit the water. In either case, if you see him rear up, block, or dodge towards his tail. His tell for smacking with the tail is more a lowering of the head, or a looking back at his ass. It helps if you cut the tail off, but if you're using the hammer, can't really do that on him. (You can break his face horns/mane&crest though!)

[zarathstra]

Good luck!

Got a second interview on Thursday!

[Lekon]

After a quick chat with Foodnipple, a few more tips.

1. Offline! Offline and online mode have very different arcs of difficulty. Its a good idea to do up to around Rank 4 Quests in offline, so you have a good farm/trading empire going.

2. The trader in offline wants rare goods for things. To get those, you just need to do the free roam mode. Any boss you've killed so far has a chance to show up in free roam (Great Jaggi, Qur, etc.) Kill/capture them and back at base the Chief's son will give you a few rare items in the hunt report's rewards.

[JayVe]

Got a second interview on Thursday!

Fantastic news! I'm holding my breath for you.

[Food Nipple]

I think Jboy and I are going to try to do some online quests tonight, if anyone else is interested. We've been communicating over xbox live and will be doing mostly one star quests.

[Troggles]

What time were you thinking? I may be able to sneak on for a few if it's early enough. I've done all of the one star quests.

[Lekon]

I could be up for that as well, though Ventrillo or some such might be easier for chat purposes. I can swing it either way. Whenabouts are you planning?

[Troggles]

I wouldn't be able to get onto Vent from my TV, but I can chat over Live if it works for everyone.

[Lekon]

Live it is then. We'll swing something! Kinda wanted to do some online since I hit a wyvern I just can't beat on singleplayer yet (The Urangann.)

[Food Nipple]

I'm going to hop on nowish and do some single player until other people show up.

[Lekon]

Was tons of fun gaming with all of you.

Who was Tristian though? I didn't catch his cog name.

[ReaverX]

Was tons of fun gaming with all of you.

Who was Tristian though? I didn't catch his cog name.

That would be me. I knew that name was a damn mistake. I've got half a mind to start another character. It was great playing with you guys yesterday.

[Tayaya]

I'll be on tonight most likely, but before I come online I want to be able to take out a Royal Ludoth on my own first, and would like to bag one more Qurupeco with the hopes of getting a Flint Stone as I need one more.

Want to upgrade my Bone Tomahawk to something with an elemental damage bonus, and hopefully something a little more durable. While I love the Bone Tomahawk, it SUCKS at staying sharp. In an online battle against a Qurupeco last night, I had to sharpen 10 times. Luckily my Alloy Armor grants me the speed sharpening skill... I don't know how I'd get by without that!

[Troggles]

Online was a blast. I look forward to many more nights of hunting monsters with you guys.

[Tayaya]

I am surprised Wii Speak works as well as it does, considering the less than ideal implementation. I could hear my buddy's game through the thing though, which was annoying. He wouldn't turn his volume down and I think he had the Wii Speak right under his center channel (and didn't heed the game's advice to switch to 2 channel stereo when playing with the Wii Speak). That said, it still did its job, though not nearly as elegantly as the ol' XBOX headset.

[Tayaya]

http://www.colonyofgamers.com/cogforums/showthread.php?t=17138

I added a thread under Matchmaking Square for everyone to post their hunter IDs so we can team up!

[Lekon]

Quick note for everyone.

I didn't know this at first, so there's a chance folk don't know this too! There are a few upgrade weapons that need either "Bathycyte ore "Carbalite" ore, or items that have a "+" in them (Gobul Spike +). Those items don not exist offline, and only start showing up online quests at hunter rank 30+.

[zarathstra]

Fantastic news! I'm holding my breath for you.

Thanks man. They actually moved my interview to today, and I did well enough to earn a final interview on Tuesday!

[Camel]

Was off work today and played a ton. Currently having trouble taking down the Qurupeco, since I keep running out of sonic bombs and he keeps summoning Great Jaggies.

I also got my first switch axe today, which is pretty awesome. Not very good for learning new fights, though, as I really end up missing the ability to block.

[Lekon]

Was off work today and played a ton. Currently having trouble taking down the Qurupeco, since I keep running out of sonic bombs and he keeps summoning Great Jaggies.

I also got my first switch axe today, which is pretty awesome. Not very good for learning new fights, though, as I really end up missing the ability to block.

You'll start to get the hang of it. Main thing: Keep dung bombs. Just hit the jaggi with the Dung Bomb, and he'll run off in a hurry. As to Qur, just keep hitting him as much as possible, preferably in the chest, as you can deflate him before he gets the call out. If he starts to spark, roll towards him or diagonal towards him so you get behind. He can't whip around in any sort of hurry when he's using the flints.

[Food Nipple]

You'll start to get the hang of it. Main thing: Keep dung bombs. Just hit the jaggi with the Dung Bomb, and he'll run off in a hurry. As to Qur, just keep hitting him as much as possible, preferably in the chest, as you can deflate him before he gets the call out. If he starts to spark, roll towards him or diagonal towards him so you get behind. He can't whip around in any sort of hurry when he's using the flints.

Actually, I've had better results pegging the qurupeco with the dung bomb. The other monsters that get summoned tend to hang around for a bit after they've been hit,the Qurupeco takes off almost immediately if he gets hit by a dung bomb. Just make sure he's paintballed before you do it.

[Tayaya]

It's those times Qurupeco summons up a Rathian that you have to worry!

Anyone take down a Barroth yet? He's one tough bastard!

[Food Nipple]

It's those times Qurupeco summons up a Rathian that you have to worry!

Anyone take down a Barroth yet? He's one tough bastard!

I've killed him offline, and Reaver, Jboy and I were really close to dropping him online last night.

[Jboy001]

I've killed him offline, and Reaver, Jboy and I were really close to dropping him online last night.

god damn that was frustrating... and my mic went out to boot... ugh

[Lekon]

Barroth is a royal pain, yes. The only tips I have really are using Pierce ammo if someone's a gunner, and making damn sure everyone is either wearing armor, or decorations that give Mud/Snow negation. Otherwise, ugh, that fight is 10x harder.

[Widgetcraft]

Okay, I just bought this bastard. About to start it up. Let's watch and see how long it takes for me to ragequit hard.

[Troggles]

Okay, I just bought this bastard. About to start it up. Let's watch and see how long it takes for me to ragequit hard.

I haven't run into anything ragequit hard worthy, but I've only made it through 2 star quests.

[Lekon]

Okay, I just bought this bastard. About to start it up. Let's watch and see how long it takes for me to ragequit hard.

IN a few of the 4 star ones, I wanted to rage a bit. If I was tired? I would get fired up, so I'd just quit out after saving and take a snooze, then be much better in the morning.

Its really handy to get a suit of armor or too, to deal with different monsters. I have an anti fire suit that made life so much easier vs the Rathalos. Before: 45 minute fight. After armor change and a new ice weapon- 12 minutes flat.

Gear. It's what's for dinner.

[EWolfmanD]

What armor are you using for fire resistance? Right now I only have Jaggi armor which has pretty bad -fire. It looks like either Rhenoplos or Bone would be the easiest to make. I'll probably end up making them both eventually since I want a set of each armor since I'm crazy like that. I think I actually have most of the parts for both of those so maybe I'll work on that later tonight. Or I'll stick with clearing the three star quests to unlock the stuff that will actually require fire resistance. :p

[Widgetcraft]

Well, I've played a few hours, and I have to say that I'm enjoying it much more than the PSP games! It does a much better job explaining what you should be doing, spacing out the tutorial messages, instead of just delivering it in a three-year long onslaught of tutorial missions like fucking Freedom Unite did. I just did a couple of lvl 1 missions, so I'm still early on, but I'm digging it.

[Widgetcraft]

Question: How do you knock-out a critter? There is a level one quest that I can't complete because I can't figure out how to knock something out instead of killing it outright.

[Lekon]

Question: How do you knock-out a critter? There is a level one quest that I can't complete because I can't figure out how to knock something out instead of killing it outright.

The tutorials are a lot better, though I'm still kinda surprised they didn't go into captures more. All captures work the same:

In any capture quest there will be an Ez Shock trap (Sometimes pit trap) and a few tranq bombs in the box. You'll need them. Basically it's a three step process.

1. Whack monster *until* it starts limping away. Technically you can capture before this, but you'll need an armor skill that sees special things. Easy way is just watch for it to limp away, and make sure it's painted so you know where it's going.

2. Chase it to the correct area (Wherever it runs) And use a shock or pit trap.

3. Piss the monster off so it runs in the trap, then toss tranq bombs (or use tranq ammo if you're a gunner.) Usually any monster that can be trapped takes 2 tranq bombs to knock out.

You can make more tranq bombs in town with Parashroom+Sleep herb, and the traps can be made with either Net+Trap tool, or Thunderbug+Trap tool. I mention this because having a spare is handy, but you can also trap monsters outside of the KO quests. Anytime it says "Hunt an X" you can kill or trap. Trapping almost always gets you better loot. Though you can't carve the monster, your end of quest rewards will be a bit more rare, and you'll get a few more items too. If you trap a big monster in free roam mode, you get a hell of a lot more resources than if you just killed it as well. Problem is, sometimes its more of a pain to try to trap, and some monsters aren't trappable.

As for my fire proof armor, I'm using a full suit of Rathian armor, with some decorations to add to the earplugs and fire resistance as well as the health. I basically end up with +50 health, Regular Earplugs, and around +15 bonus fire resistance tacked on to the armor's natural fire resistance.

Also: D. Island, in the underwater parts in the far north. Check those bone piles. They give red coral (Good money) and sometimes Jumbo Pearls. These lil bastards make great weapons later on.

[Widgetcraft]

Well, see I don't need to capture the monsters. I need to knock them out to harvest their horns. They're just those stupid antelope things.

[Lekon]

Oh. The Kelbi quest. Just kill them and you'll get the horns eventually, or use a hammer and each kill will instead leave them on the ground with stars above the head. That way leaves a higher chance of the horns being carved off.

[Tayaya]

As for my fire proof armor, I'm using a full suit of Rathian armor, with some decorations to add to the earplugs and fire resistance as well as the health. I basically end up with +50 health, Regular Earplugs, and around +15 bonus fire resistance tacked on to the armor's natural fire resistance.

Also: D. Island, in the underwater parts in the far north. Check those bone piles. They give red coral (Good money) and sometimes Jumbo Pearls. These lil bastards make great weapons later on.

Wow man, full Rathian gear already? I envy you!

I'm still stuck on Barroth. I ALMOST beat him last night. Got him limping but just couldn't get the kill before he knocked my out for the third time.

My problem with him is that I just can't find a weapon that I can fight him effectively with. I've got a Cheiftan's great sword, and a wide variety of sword/shield combos (Commander's Dagger, Ludroth Nail, Bone Tomahawk). I can't possibly upgrade my swords or my great sword anymore, as none of the drops I need will even start to appear until after I get barroth out of the way.

The great sword feels impossible to hit with because Barroth just never lets up, and the sword/shield combo does so little damage it's laughable. I can hit him constantly but after 25 straight minutes of non stop cuttin' he isn't even limping yet. That, and the Bone Tomahawk goes totally dull after about 3 combos....

I totally want to build a better weapon, preferably one that will stay sharper longer, but the complete unavailability of materials to do so until after I beat this bastard is pretty frustrating. Demon's Souls is kinder to players for god's sake!

[Lekon]

No need to envy. I genocided several Rathians before they finally gave up the plate that let me make the armor. Be jealous of the almost full Lagiacrus armor I have (Just need the headgear.)

And yes. Barroth is an arse. So's his big brother in this game. The main ways are getting some gear with anti mud/snow (Rhenoplos for example, a great first level armor). And.. honestly.. a bowgun. Get a light/medium bowgun setup, get all the Pierce ammo you can, (crag/clutser too, if your gun shoots it) And start firing until he stops twitching. I ended up doing that to take him out. Did the same for a certain other enemy which you won't meet until 5 star.

[Tayaya]

No need to envy. I genocided several Rathians before they finally gave up the plate that let me make the armor. Be jealous of the almost full Lagiacrus armor I have (Just need the headgear.)

And yes. Barroth is an arse. So's his big brother in this game. The main ways are getting some gear with anti mud/snow (Rhenoplos for example, a great first level armor). And.. honestly.. a bowgun. Get a light/medium bowgun setup, get all the Pierce ammo you can, (crag/clutser too, if your gun shoots it) And start firing until he stops twitching. I ended up doing that to take him out. Did the same for a certain other enemy which you won't meet until 5 star.

I was trying to avoid bowgunning because it feels like such a cop out, but I know from Freedom unite how effective a ranged weapon can be. I have LOADS of materials (I think i'm on my 3rd stack of small bone husks, since they cap out at 99) and ammo's cheap even when you can't make it. Have about 35000z in my pocket, and can probably build a decent bowgun.

Any tips on a good bowgun setup?

[Lekon]

Main thing for making a gun, it's now split into parts. SO just make sure the weight is under 60 (Otherwise it's damn heavy and slow.) Make a gun that has as much Pierce shot as you can, especially if you can get rapid fire pierce 1 or 2. Pellet also works good offline vs him.

[Widgetcraft]

I have full sets of Qurupeco and Rhenoplos armor now. This game is sooo much more accessible than Freedom Unite. I'm up to the point that I need to fight Barroth in single-player, but in multi I'm still only HR 6. People in multi can be a real crap shoot to play with; I've lost more than one quest because some douche doesn't know when to heal himself when fighting Quropeco (or better yet: He didn't bring any potions, and didn't take any from the supply crate).

Fighting monsters really does get easier with practice. Quropeco is my bitch, at this point. I still hate the Great Jaggi's hipcheck, though.

[Lekon]

People in multi can be a real crap shoot to play with; I've lost more than one quest because some douche doesn't know when to heal himself when fighting Quropeco (or better yet: He didn't bring any potions, and didn't take any from the supply crate).


Just so you feel safer, After you finish the 1 star quests, it gets lots better. Many of the "Oh I forgetz to helas, that bad?" don't make it past the barroth urgent quest. Ever. 2 and 3 star quests are much easier on your sanity.

[Pinchy]

Oh. The Kelbi quest. Just kill them and you'll get the horns eventually, or use a hammer and each kill will instead leave them on the ground with stars above the head. That way leaves a higher chance of the horns being carved off.

Also, shield bashing with Sword and Shield or Lance will leave the Kelbi dizzy too.

I've been a huge fan of MH for a long long time, and I've always desperately tried to get my g/f to try it, but it was kind of hopeless on the PSP version. Monster Hunter Tri, though? We have 2 Wiis and we've played pretty much every day together since it came out. On top of that, since she stays at home (vs. the office for work for me), she has probably 20+ more hours logged into it than me now. I had always hoped for the day I could play MH with the g/f, and now it's come true :)

It's amusing to me because early on, I would be the one paintballing, trapping, and tranqing the dinos, and now she comes prepared with all the right gear and does it too. She's all grown up! *sniff*

[ReaverX]

So when is the next CoG Monster Mash? I hate the fact that you can only send friend invites to people that are online that very second. We need to get some more co-op quests going in here.

[Widgetcraft]

Hm, should I go ahead and get the Great Jaggi Mask? It's apparently the event item for the event quest that is up right now, where you hunt four Great Jaggis. The 30,000z price tag would wipe me out, but I could sell some bugs and stuff to get by and make money fairly easily fighting Quropeco and stuff. The mask's big draw is it's luck stat (Fate +10). You can upgrade it if you grind that event quest and get more Great Jaggi heads.

[Savok]

Shit, I didn't even know this was out. And by out, I mean including here.

Shit shit shit *scrambles to find a copy*

[Tayaya]

So when is the next CoG Monster Mash? I hate the fact that you can only send friend invites to people that are online that very second. We need to get some more co-op quests going in here.

I've been coming on a LOT lately, and checkin' for you when I am there. Just haven't gotten lucky enough to catch you yet.

I usually play in the afternoon and early evening on most weekdays except friday.

I may be on tonight, if our weekly D&D session gets cancelled.

[Lekon]

It's amusing to me because early on, I would be the one paintballing, trapping, and tranqing the dinos, and now she comes prepared with all the right gear and does it too. She's all grown up! *sniff*

Its all fun and games until you get pit trapped and tranq'd in the bedroom dude.

[zarathstra]

Its all fun and games until you get pit trapped and tranq'd in the bedroom dude.

I dunno, could be fun. Depends on what you like :)

I just fired up the game today. So far, liking it, but I won't be able to put any significant time into until Wednesday.

[Pinchy]

Something I found out that was pretty damn amusing. I don't know if it works with a Torch, but if Cha-Cha has a Lantern Mask turned on (so his little flame head lamp is burning), Felynes and Melynxs can't resist him and are forced to meow and do cutesy dances. It's hilarious when I'm hunting and Melynxs are trying to run up to me and jack my stuff, then Cha-Cha's fire hat just mesmerizes them. Very funny scene.

[Lekon]

I can just imagine the cat people gettin' funky around the lamp helmet. I have to try that sometime. Also, to help folk out, my Hunter ID is HQ9DMQ. I'm usually on the request servers, just toss me a message.

also: awesome image is awesome:

http://i.imgur.com/ZZIB3.jpg

[ReaverX]

Geezzz... Just when I think I'm making decent progress, I see Lekon with armor and weapons light-years beyond mine. Dammit, slow down man!

[Savok]

First impression, all the guys are wearing assless chaps.