Monster Hunter Stories: Ride On

Lore & Background

The series is set in a world where most people are monster hunters, but a hidden village called Hakum Village trains children to become Riders—people who bond with friendly monsters hatched from eggs and use them as mounts. The protagonist Lute, a young boy who lost his parents, forms a unique kinship with a Rathalos he found himself, unlike other riders who receive Monsties from the village. Alongside his friends Cheval, Lilia, and the eccentric Airou named Navirou, Lute explores the world and learns about monster riding.

Reader's Guide

A past threat called the Dark Blight reemerges, infecting forests and causing monsters to become more aggressive. The new generation of riders must find a way to stop the blighted monsters without destroying them outright. The series features a large cast including the mysterious rider Avinia, the Scriveners captain Simone, and the monster hunter Reverto who stumbles upon Hakum Village. The anime was licensed in North America by Funimation, with Crunchyroll streaming a subtitled simulcast in some countries outside Asia. Its first theme song, 'Panorama', was performed by Kanjani∞, and the second season's theme, 'Bokura Kyou mo Ikiteiru', was performed by Johnny's West.

Did You Know?

• The series is produced by David Production, the studio known for JoJo's Bizarre Adventure.
• Lute's Monstie is a Rathalos, which he found himself rather than receiving from the village.
• Navirou, the Airou companion, is known for his poor direction skills and love of donuts.
• The series premiered on Fuji TV on October 2, 2016, in a new daytime timeslot at 8:30am on Sundays.