Operation in the field focused on comfort, more exciting "3-sukumi" battles. "Monster Hunter Stories 3" hands-on report [TGS2025]

Note: the original Japanese article can be found at:
https://www.4gamer.net/games/933/G093333/20250925106/

Writer: Naito Hasami | 2025/09/25 15:55 (UTC)

Capcom is showcasing a playable demo of Monster Hunter Stories 3: Destiny of the Twin Dragons, scheduled for release on March 13, 2026 (available on PC, Nintendo Switch 2, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S), at Tokyo Game Show 2025, which began on September 25.

Thumbnail image No.001 / Smooth field controls designed for comfort, more exciting “rock-paper-scissors” battles. Hands-on report from TGS2025: Monster Hunter Stories 3

This latest installment in the “Monster Hunter Stories” series is an RPG set within the Monster Hunter universe, where players become “Riders”—individuals who form bonds with monsters, raise them, and coexist while exploring this world.

During our hands-on session, we played as a Ranger squad leader giving guidance to rookie Ranger Tiou. We experienced various aspects of the game’s setting, field-based actions, and battle system within the limited time available.

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PC Xbox Series X|S PS5 Nintendo Switch 2 Movie

Latest trailer for “Monster Hunter Stories 3: Destiny of the Twin Dragons” released, featuring Ryudou, the dazzling thunder dragon

At today’s “TGS2025 CAPCOM ONLINE PROGRAM” livestream, Capcom unveiled the latest trailer for Monster Hunter Stories 3: Destiny of the Twin Dragons. The footage introduces key story elements and world details, including a glimpse of the new monster, Ryudou, the dazzling thunder dragon.

[September 25, 2025, 00:01]

Capcom’s dedicated page for Tokyo Game Show 2025

Official website for “Monster Hunter Stories 3: Destiny of the Twin Dragons”

[Smooth field controls and a clear yet deep battle system based on familiar “rock-paper-scissors” mechanics]

In this game, athletic elements have been added to field gameplay, allowing players to switch mounts seamlessly without screen transitions. Actions such as climbing walls and flying now feel smooth and natural. Breath attacks and close-range strikes during riding can be used not only to gain advantageous positioning in battle but also for gathering materials—expanding the range of what riders can do.

Athletics, riding, resource gathering, and combat are all core components that take up much of the gameplay alongside battles. The enhanced fluidity of basic actions significantly elevates overall game experience quality.

Thumbnail image No.003 / Smooth field controls designed for comfort, more exciting “rock-paper-scissors” battles. Hands-on report from TGS2025: Monster Hunter Stories 3 Thumbnail image No.004 / Smooth field controls designed for comfort, more exciting “rock-paper-scissors” battles. Hands-on report from TGS2025: Monster Hunter Stories 3 Thumbnail image No.005 / Smooth field controls designed for comfort, more exciting “rock-paper-scissors” battles. Hands-on report from TGS2025: Monster Hunter Stories 3

Discovering the familiar Pugga in the field rewards players with items—an enjoyable surprise! Thumbnail image No.006 / Smooth field controls designed for comfort, more exciting “rock-paper-scissors” battles. Hands-on report from TGS2025: Monster Hunter Stories 3

The battle system is a turn-based command battle, where the player (Rider) and their mount monster (Otomon) team up. During our demo, we experienced both standard fights against Rambos and more challenging battles against monsters known as “Yūi,” which employ unique combat styles.

Thumbnail image No.007 / Smooth field controls designed for comfort, more exciting “rock-paper-scissors” battles. Hands-on report from TGS2025: Monster Hunter Stories 3 Thumbnail image No.008 / Smooth field controls designed for comfort, more exciting “rock-paper-scissors” battles. Hands-on report from TGS2025: Monster Hunter Stories 3 Thumbnail image No.009 / Smooth field controls designed for comfort, more exciting “rock-paper-scissors” battles. Hands-on report from TGS2025: Monster Hunter Stories 3

There are three attack types—Power, Speed, and Technique, each with a “rock-paper-scissors” relationship: Power beats Technique, Technique beats Speed, and Speed beats Power. When both sides lock eyes during battle, triggering a “direct confrontation,” the outcome is determined by this type advantage.

The dramatic cut-in of the two opponents glaring at each other during a direct confrontation feels intense and awesome! Thumbnail image No.010 / Smooth field controls designed for comfort, more exciting “rock-paper-scissors” battles. Hands-on report from TGS2025: Monster Hunter Stories 3

Winning a direct confrontation deals significant damage to the opponent, while losing results in greater damage taken. By reading your enemy’s attack type, you can deliver effective counterattacks. Most monsters undergo form changes during battle, altering their behavior patterns and attack types—enhancing their abilities—so adapting your strategy dynamically is crucial.

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Additionally, special options such as the “Double Action,” which triggers when you win a direct confrontation against the same enemy as your Otomon, and “Active Skills,” which consume stamina, provide powerful tactical choices in battle. The constant need to anticipate enemy actions and respond accordingly creates an enjoyable sense of tension. Though we couldn’t explore it fully here, different Otomon combinations will dramatically affect combat style. Despite this high strategic depth, the game remains approachable—players can gradually learn systems as they play, making it likely accessible even for those unfamiliar with the Monster Hunter series.

After selecting an attack type, players also choose a target body part—the beloved breakable parts mechanic from previous Monster Hunter games is fully included! Thumbnail image No.012 / Smooth field controls designed for comfort, more exciting “rock-paper-scissors” battles. Hands-on report from TGS2025: Monster Hunter Stories 3 Thumbnail image No.013 / Smooth field controls designed for comfort, more exciting “rock-paper-scissors” battles. Hands-on report from TGS2025: Monster Hunter Stories 3

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After knocking down a monster, activating the “Sync Rush” boosts your bond gauge and connects directly to powerful Bond Skills, dealing even greater damage to enemies. Thumbnail image No.016 / Smooth field controls designed for comfort, more exciting “rock-paper-scissors” battles. Hands-on report from TGS2025: Monster Hunter Stories 3 Thumbnail image No.017 / Smooth field controls designed for comfort, more exciting “rock-paper-scissors” battles. Hands-on report from TGS2025: Monster Hunter Stories 3

Finally, we’d like to highlight the engaging characters in this game. The story unfolds across two nations—Azural and Vurion—on a path toward destruction, centered around twin Rioleos born from a cursed civil war 200 years ago, along with the Riders themselves. During our hands-on demo, we met several key figures: the protagonist, a prince (or princess) of Azural; Tiou, a rookie Ranger; Simon, the protagonist’s close friend; and Rudie, a Royal Ileu serving the royal family. The vibrant personalities and lively animation make them compelling—making us eager to learn more about their stories, motivations, and what lies ahead.

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When visiting Tokyo Game Show 2025, be sure to stop by the Capcom booth and experience the smooth, thrilling gameplay of this title firsthand.

Don’t miss the large display of twin Rioleos at the booth! Thumbnail image No.020 / Smooth field controls designed for comfort, more exciting “rock-paper-scissors” battles. Hands-on report from TGS2025: Monster Hunter Stories 3