Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin is an incredibly robust RPG thanks to its gene system. Riders are able to genetically modify their monsties to make the best possible fighter. Rather than just worry about an element, riders can meticulously craft their perfect instrument of death to steamroll through the game.

Best Monstie Genes

Power Up (XL)

This is a catch-all for upgrading the attack element of each monstie to its XL level. This will boost their damage output to near unholy levels. Bear in mind that Power Up doesn’t stack, hence why you’ll want to go with the XL version.

Self-Heal (XL)

This gene will allow the monstie to recover a good amount of HP at the end of each turn. This reduces the need to use healing items and frees up the player to attack with their rider. That being said, it does pair well with the Immunizer item which will restore HP for 10 turns.

Dancer (XL)

Dancer doesn’t seem like much on its own, but when paired with Self-Heal and Power Up, your monsties will quickly steam roll adversaries. It increases speed when at full HP and will greatly boost attack and defense by default. Throw in the multiple times that Dancer can trigger by your monstie being healed up to full and it’s difficult to pass on this one.

Soul Kinship (XL)

The Kinship Gauge passively fills up quicker. With more kinship, riders are able to more quickly spam their Ride and charge attacks.

Divine Blessing (XL)

This gene will reduce the amount of damage taken and the XL version sees this effect trigger about every other turn. This effectively turns the monstie into an immortal and unkillable god.

For more Monster Hunter goodies, check out Monster Hunter Rise: Best Longsword Builds on Pro Game Guides.