Introduction

Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection, as previewed at TGS 2025, presents a significant evolution in the Monster Hunter franchise. Departing from the action-oriented gameplay of the main series, Twisted Reflection embraces a turn-based RPG format, emphasizing strategic combat and a character-driven narrative. The game's anime-inspired art style and focus on monster companionship offer a distinct and engaging experience.

Gameplay Mechanics

The core gameplay revolves around forming bonds with monsters, known as Monsties, and utilizing their unique abilities in battle. Combat is turn-based, requiring players to strategically select attacks and manage resources. The preview showcased several key gameplay elements:

Monster Bonding

The process of forming a bond with a Monstie, allowing it to join the player's party. Different Monsties possess varying strengths, weaknesses, and special abilities.

Turn-Based Combat

Battles unfold in a turn-based system, where players choose actions for themselves and their Monsties. Strategic decision-making is crucial for victory.

Exploration

Players explore diverse environments, ranging from lush forests to arid deserts, encountering various monsters and uncovering hidden secrets.

Combat System Deep Dive

The combat system in Twisted Reflection appears to be more nuanced than its predecessors. Elemental weaknesses and resistances play a significant role, encouraging players to diversify their Monstie roster. Special attacks and cooperative maneuvers between the player and their Monstie add another layer of strategic depth.

Visuals and Presentation

The game's anime-inspired art style is a departure from the more realistic visuals of the mainline Monster Hunter games. Character designs are vibrant and expressive, and the environments are richly detailed. The overall presentation is polished and visually appealing.

Narrative and Story

While specific plot details remain scarce, the preview suggests a compelling narrative centered around the themes of friendship, loyalty, and the bond between humans and monsters. The story is expected to be more character-driven than previous Monster Hunter titles, with a greater emphasis on dialogue and character development.

Conclusion

Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection demonstrates considerable promise. Its unique blend of turn-based RPG mechanics, anime-inspired visuals, and a compelling narrative could attract a broad audience. The game's success will likely depend on its ability to deliver a deep and engaging gameplay experience while staying true to the spirit of the Monster Hunter franchise.