I'm super pumped about Monster Hunter gaining more and more traction here in the US. Granted, it has a steep learning curve, and requires a lot of hours and dedication to make progress, but it's one of those games that certainly reward you for it. However, if you're the type to get scared away by the difficult nature of the mainline Monster Hunter games, then perhaps Monster Hunter Stories might be more of your speed. That is, if it gets released here in the US.
Monster Hunter Stories takes an RPG approach to the genre. Sure, there will still be monster hunting involved, but this time you'll be able to tame and ride various monsters, all of which will be able to help you out in battle. From what we've read, MHS will have a more narrative experience, hence the Stories.
The trailer shows off the game's much more kid-friendly graphics, as well as some of the monsters you can potentially tame and ride, such as the Lagombi or the Congalala. I'm still surprised at just how gorgeous the graphics look on the 3DS.
Given the success of Monster Hunter here, especially with Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate, it's not out of the question that we'll be seeing Monster Hunter Stories here at some point. As of right now, the game has a 2016 launch date for Japan. In the meantime, enjoy this:
