Your journey in Monster Hunter Rise is not a solitary one. The game provides a robust system of companions and support, primarily through your loyal Palicos and Palamutes, but also through other helpful mechanics. These allies and systems are crucial for survival and success in the harsh world of Kamura.
Palicos: The Feline Companions
Palicos are your primary feline companions, offering a wide range of support abilities. They can be customized in appearance and equipped with their own weapons and armor. Palicos learn various Support Moves, which they can use strategically during a hunt. These moves include healing items, traps, buffs, and even offensive maneuvers. You can have up to two Palicos accompany you on a hunt, and their effectiveness can be greatly enhanced through training and proper equipment.
Palamutes: The Canine Allies
Palamutes are your canine companions, offering a more offensive and mobile support role. They can be ridden, allowing for faster traversal of the hunting grounds and even mounted attacks. Palamutes also have their own unique skills and can be equipped with gear. While they don't offer the same breadth of support as Palicos, their mobility and offensive capabilities make them invaluable, especially when paired with a Palico.
Buddy Skills and Training
Both Palicos and Palamutes gain experience and can learn new skills through training at the Buddy Plaza. You can choose specific training regimens to focus on their development. Palico Support Moves are particularly important, with options like Healing Whiskers, Shock Purr-severance, and Pilfer being highly useful. Palamute skills often focus on offensive capabilities or providing buffs to the hunter.
Buddy Equipment
Equipping your buddies with the right weapons and armor is essential. Buddy weapons often have elemental properties or status effects, while their armor provides defensive bonuses. Look for gear that complements your hunting style and the monsters you'll be facing. A well-geared buddy can contribute significantly to damage output and survivability.
Buddy Reconnaissance and Meowcenaries
Beyond combat support, your buddies can be sent on reconnaissance missions to gather resources or scout areas. The Meowcenaries system allows you to dispatch groups of Palicos on expeditions to collect materials passively. This is a fantastic way to stock up on crafting items and consumables without needing to actively farm them yourself.
Buddy Plaza Management
The Buddy Plaza is your central hub for all things related to your companions. Here, you can recruit new buddies, manage their skills and equipment, and send them on training or reconnaissance missions. Investing time in managing your buddies will pay dividends in your hunts.