Thank you to everyone who supported Episode 1 🙌
Based on the response, it’s fair to say this game still has its audience,whether for nostalgia or for those who are just getting interested in trying this classic.
In this article, I want to share one of the easiest ways to hunt monsters in Monster Hunter Portable 3rd, especially for those who prefer a more relaxed but effective playstyle.
Recommended Weapons
If you’ve never played this game before, I recommend starting with Sword and Shield (Blademaster) or Light Bowgun (Gunner). Why these two?
- Simple combos
- Fast movement
- Quick sheathing
Sword and Shield:
- Can block attacks
- Can use items without sheathing
Light Bowgun:
- Can evade twice after shooting
- Easier to reposition (important since gunner has low HP)
Alternative options:
- Lance
- Gunlance
- Greatsword
However, these require some adjustment. It’s better to try them after you’re comfortable with the first two.
Core Strategy: Hit & Reposition
The main strategy I use from start to finish is:
Reposition → Attack → Reposition
Or simply put: a safe version of hit-and-run.
1. Positioning is Key
- Avoid standing directly in front of the monster
- Stay at:
- The side, or
- The back
Sometimes the monster will focus on you instead of your Felyne, so you need to constantly reposition.
Tips:
- Too close → harder to dodge
- Too far → lower damage (especially for LBG)
2. Target the Legs
For Sword and Shield:
- Focus on the legs
- Goal: trip the monster → free damage window
For Light Bowgun:
- More flexible:
- Legs (for control)
- Head / belly (for damage)
3. Don’t Be Greedy
This is the most common mistake. Limit your attacks:
- Sword and Shield: 1 – 1.5x combos
- Light Bowgun: 2 – 3 shots
Then → reposition immediately. Maximize your combo only when:
- The monster is down, or
- The monster is trapped
4. Item Usage (Highly Recommended)
To speed up your hunts, always bring:
- 1 Shock Trap
- 1 Pitfall Trap
- 2 Trap Tools
- 2 Net / 2 Thunderbug
➡️ Total: up to 4 traps.
Additional must-have:
- Flash Bomb (for opening)
How to Use:
- Throw a Flash Bomb
- While the monster is blinded → place a trap
- Once trapped → deal as much damage as possible
Tips:
- Shock Trap → better for cutting tails
- Pitfall Trap → better for breaking heads
5. Felyne Comrade (Optional but Helpful)
Felyne companions can support this strategy, mainly for distraction.
Recommended Setup:
- Attack Style: Melee & Boomerang
- Target: Large First
- Character: Courageous
Skills:
- Defense Up (L)
- Boomerang Up
- Speedy Recovery
Weapon:
- Impact Weapon
Why impact?
- Can inflict KO status
- Temporarily stops the monster
This build focuses on:
Survivability + Distraction, not damage
So your Felyne can last longer and help draw aggro away from you.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Easy to learn
- Low risk of dying
- Great for beginners & casual players
Cons:
- Slower hunts
- Targets legs (not the main weak point)
Closing
This strategy may not be the fastest, but it’s safe and consistent, especially if you just want to enjoy the game without too much pressure.
If you’re the type of player who:
- Plays casually
- Doesn’t chase speedruns
- Prefers consistency
Then this strategy might be perfect for you. Let me know what you think!