Toukiden 2

Definitely not on Monster Hunter’s level, but still a solid alternative. A decent experiment with an open world.

It's really fun and I like it more than MH Wilds in some ways. Companions you can level up and get their unique weapons, characters are more interesting, story is actually decent, weapons are super fun and the mitama system adds a lot of versatility to the experience.

If you want Monster Hunter but with a story, Japanese history, and like able characters this is your game.

SUPREMELY overlooked monster hunter type game, absolutely worth a purchase

Toukiden 2, developed and published by KOEI TECMO GAMES CO., LTD., is a compelling action RPG that builds on the foundations of its predecessors while introducing new elements to create a more expansive and immersive experience. Set in a beautifully crafted world besieged by monstrous demons called Oni, the game places players in the role of a Slayer tasked with defending humanity from these deadly threats. Unlike many games in the genre, Toukiden 2 embraces an open-world structure, allowing players the freedom to explore vast and varied environments, which adds a strong sense of scale and depth to the gameplay.
One of the most striking aspects of Toukiden 2 is how it combines traditional monster-hunting combat with a more strategic and layered approach. Players can select from an array of weapon types, each offering distinct playstyles and tactical options, ensuring combat feels fresh and engaging regardless of the player’s preferred approach. The introduction of the Demon Hand mechanic is a standout feature, giving players the ability to interact with both the environment and enemies in unique ways, such as grappling or stunning foes, adding an extra dimension to battles that rewards skill and creativity. The combat system demands careful timing, positioning, and resource management, resulting in encounters that are both thrilling and satisfying.
Exploration is deeply integrated into the overall experience, with the open-world design encouraging players to venture off the beaten path in search of hidden quests, rare materials, and powerful enemies. This freedom to roam is a welcome departure from the more linear progression of earlier entries and enhances the feeling of living in a world under constant threat. The diverse environments, from dense forests to mountainous regions, are not only visually appealing but also packed with secrets and challenges that keep players engaged for hours. The game’s pacing balances moments of high-intensity combat with quieter exploration, offering a varied experience that avoids monotony.
Narratively, Toukiden 2 weaves a story of heroism and survival in a world on the brink of collapse. The plot unfolds through interactions with a memorable cast of characters, each bringing their own perspective and depth to the story. Themes of sacrifice, resilience, and hope permeate the narrative, providing emotional weight to the player’s journey. This strong storytelling element elevates the game beyond a simple monster-slaying adventure, making each mission and victory feel meaningful within the larger context of the world’s struggle.
The game’s visuals and sound design contribute significantly to its immersive atmosphere. Character models and Oni designs are detailed and distinct, with each demon exhibiting unique traits and attack patterns that make encounters feel varied and challenging. The environments are lush and atmospheric, richly designed to evoke the feeling of an ancient world filled with danger and mystery. Complementing this is a dynamic soundtrack that blends traditional Japanese motifs with epic orchestral arrangements, heightening the emotional impact of both exploration and combat.
Toukiden 2 also shines in its multiplayer component, allowing players to team up online for cooperative missions. This feature adds a layer of camaraderie and strategic depth, as working with others enables coordinated attacks and combined abilities that can overcome even the most formidable Oni. The multiplayer experience is well-integrated, offering a smooth and rewarding way to engage with the game’s core content alongside friends or other players.
Despite its many strengths, Toukiden 2 does have some drawbacks. Newcomers to the series might find certain mechanics and systems overwhelming at first due to a lack of clear tutorials or explanations. The expansive open world, while mostly a strength, occasionally suffers from repetitive terrain and mission structures, which can diminish the sense of discovery after extended play. However, these issues are relatively minor when compared to the depth and enjoyment the game ultimately provides.
Overall, Toukiden 2 stands out as a polished and engaging action RPG that offers a rich blend of exploration, strategic combat, and storytelling. Its expansive world, dynamic gameplay systems, and strong narrative make it a rewarding experience for fans of the genre and newcomers alike. Those willing to invest time in mastering its mechanics will find a challenging and immersive adventure that delivers both thrills and emotional resonance.
Rating: 8/10

Despite some jank, outdated visuals, plot conveniences, dull moments in the open world and repeated regular enemies, this is a great time for a Monster Hunter fan. Different weapons with unique playstyles, lots of huge bosses with variety of locals, coupled with interesting mechanics like cutting limbs, grabbing/attacking enemies with a semi hookshot. The story actually is interesting, albeit, it falls into some anime-esque moments and dialogue, with characters ending up like archetypes. The open world starts small and expands the more you progress through the story, although it's not as fleshed out as other heavyweights.
Get it if it looks appealing to you and want a Monster Hunter like experience. Just don't expect great presentation.

It's like Monster Hunter was made in Japan!