Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin was given headline billing in today's May Monster Hunter Digital Event, and there were some interesting details.

As you can see in the trailer above there was more insight given into the story - with a strange light emitting 'Rage Rays' and causing monsters to act aggressively. It also introduced a familiar face from the first game, albeit now older, with Avinia making an appearance.

In terms of gameplay information, the focus today was on The Rite of Channeling, which looks like an interesting way to customise and evolve your 'Monsties'. When you find eggs in monster dens you take them to the stables where they hatch. The Rite of Channeling allows you to transfer a gene from one Monstie to the other, opening up new possibilities.

We've included the broadcast below so you can watch (skip to 5 minutes in), but we'll outline the basics of how it'll work. Genes are placed in grids, ideally with matching colours or symbols in threes to enhance effects. If you have two of the same gene, you can stack them to get an upgrade. Once you have multiple Monsties the idea will be to utilise The Rite of Channeling to give each Monstie unique or extra powerful abilities that aren't normally possible with their breed.

Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin is shaping up quite nicely, we reckon. Are you planning to pick it up on 9th July?