Monster Hunter Stories: Ride On

In a world where humans share the land with monsters, Hunters roam while Riders form secret bonds with their Otomon. With Kizuna Ishi, Riders awaken monster powers and live alongside their Otomon, the monsters they connect with. Ryuto, a twelve year old from the hidden Rider village Hakum, dreams of becoming the world’s best Rider. Before the ceremony that will grant him his own Kizuna Ishi, he ventures into the forest to find his first Otomon. He teams with his loyal childhood friend Cheval, his inquisitive friend Lilia, and their partner Naville, and together they meet a Rathalos that marks the start of a dangerous path. The bond tests his resolve and reshapes his village's fate.

Released in 2016 as an anime series, Ride On adapts Capcom's Monster Hunter Stories game into animated form. The production translates the game's bond driven world into vibrant episodes, highlighting friendship and monster pairing, with voices by Tomokazu Sugita, Mutsumi Tamura, Ryota Osaka, and Nana Mizuki for a broad audience.

As part of the Monster Hunter universe, Ride On widens the brand's reach to younger viewers and fans of action animation. It reinforces the idea that bonds with monsters are built on trust and cooperation, expanding the franchise beyond battles into friendship and shared adventures.

Reception centers on its bright visuals and accessible storytelling. The show explores friendship, responsibility, and courage through Ryuto's early attempts to be a leader. While aimed at kids, its themes resonate with older fans who recall the game and the thrill of meeting Otomon.

Awards: There is no widely documented list of major nominations for the series, so its impact comes from audience engagement and merchandise ties rather than industry honors. Even without trophies, Ride On stands as a notable bridge between gaming and animated storytelling within the Monster Hunter world.