Total newbie to monster hunter (never played any game) but got this yesterday. Working through the tutorial missions at the moment. A couple of things-
1. I beat my first big monster but the tutorial just told me to jump on it's back from an aerial attack but I couldn't find a big enough ledge to do it. I just killed him anyway but I wonder am I missing something basic here?
2. Any newbie tips for after the tutorial? It seems like there is almost too much content- I'm glad the tutorial is there because I'd be frozen otherwise. What should I do next?
Welcome to the world of the desire sensor.
About number one, if you have equipped aerial style (check in your house at the box if you're unsure) you can just roll into a cat, a bomb barrel, or a monster (including the big ones) to get launched into the air. Once you're airborne, you can still control your hunter somewhat so you can navigate to a good trajectory. Then, while in the air, attack a big monster just like usual. Check your weapons manual in the menu for peculiarities - e.g. pressing A for a double whammy with the hammer. Repeatedly hit a big monster with those aerial attacks to build up a counter, just like the stun or poison mechanic. Most of the time, it doesn't take long until you topple and automatically hop onto the monster. From there, it's the standard monster rodeo.
So, no need for a ledge. Just roll, hop, smash and ride.
Of course, this doesn't work in cat mode, just like the rest of the styles.
With regards to two, just pick any quest you fancy. I'd recommend giving preference to missions from villagers (talk to anyone with a speech bubble, then check your quest listing). This will unlock certain things and often give you "faction tickets", so to speak, which in turn can be used for crafting of weapons, armor and decorations.
After a bit of spelunking I found Azuros a good lowbie target since he's rather slow, predictable, and gives a pretty nice LR armor. Also, his damage output is pretty manageable. You can meet him in Misty peaks during many quests. Gather a bit of honey for a little insurance (he will drop you again if he grabs you). Weapon wise it really depends which kind you like. I liked the ones you can craft with Yukumo tickets.
Don't forget to upgrade your weapons and armor once you've found some good ones. Don't waste your resources on stuff you won't use.
You won't really be in need for consumables if you download all the goodies from the Download menu (main menu, or speak with the cat in the house) - don't forget to actually claim the stuff you've downloaded from the cat.
During your questing, check with the shop ever so often. They will randomly offer a 50% rebate on most items, which should allow you to grab a cheap supply of bug nets and pickaxes. Always keep some of them with you, in the beginning a bit of iron or Malachite can go a long way.
And yes, it may be a chore, but don't forget to use the Palico facilities. Keep the trader busy, send out hunters if you have some to spare, force the cats to train if they don't have anything else to do. Also, occasionally pet the Moofah for fleece balls. It's annoying if you need them and don't have them. Ten or so are enough I guess? You can also sell them or turn them into scraps if need be.
