Capcom has announced Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection, the next entry in the Monster Hunter Stories franchise, during today’s Nintendo Direct: Partner Showcase. Set to launch in 2026 on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Switch 2, and PC, Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection tells the story of two nations on the path to ruin. With the lands of Azuria and Vermeil facing a growing crystal encroachment, the discovery of a mysterious egg brings hope. The story begins when a Rathalos hatches from the egg, a creature long believed extinct in this world. But alongside it emerged a second Rathalos bearing the same mark as the twin Skyscale Rathalos, alluding to an era of destruction when a civil war raged 200 years ago.
In Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection, players embark as the heir of Azuria, blessed with special abilities that make them leader of the Rangers and the kingdom’s sole Rathalos Rider. After a life-changing event, they investigate strange phenomena threatening the world and journey to the forbidden land beyond the northern Meridian. Joining the hero is Eleanor, princess of Vermeil, who offers herself as a “hostage” to Azuria to ease tensions between the two nations. Along with her Monstie Anjanath, Eleanor sets off to uncover the true intentions of her sister, the Queen of Vermeil.
Capcom seems to be alternating between mainline Monster Hunter entries and Monster Hunter Stories, appealing to different demographics while expanding the franchise’s world. Monster Hunter Wilds launched earlier this year, evolving the formula, but perhaps not in the way fans hoped. Although the game sold very well at launch, but as I mentioned in my review, poor PC performance has really hurt it. Then again, this year has been packed with amazing titles, so players have more options.
