User blog comment:BannedLagiacrus/Monster Appreciation Week: Pink Rathian(4th Gen)/@comment-5020152-20151212192500

Been a while since I posted one of these.

PINK RATHIAN

Concept: A differently-colored Rathian that occurred as a result of a genetic mutation. I much prefer to think of her (and Azure Rathalos) as a separate subspecies. Also, Capcom uses that backstory far too often. 2/10

Design: The same as Rathian. The difference is right there in her name – she’s the color of cherry blossoms! For some reason, I really like this new color scheme. Dare I say Rathian looks pretty in pink? 8/10

Sound: The same as Rathian, right down to the music. I miss fighting her in the Misty Peaks. 7/10

Gameplay: Mostly the same as Rathian. There are a few key differences which come in the form of some seriously annoying new attacks. If you thought Rathian’s trademark backflip was bad, wait until you meet Pink Rathian and her Dancing Backflip attack. Even more irritating? The increased range on her sideways bite, courtesy of flames gushing out of her mouth when she does it. As well, Pink Rathian hovers in the air just as much as the Rathalos does, and even borrows a couple of his maneuvers when she’s flying around. Worst of all, though, is one particular aerial maneuver she’s fond of abusing – Pink Rathian can perform a flanking turn in midair, just like Rathalos, except she literally homes in on you when she does it. Without skipping a beat, she goes INSTANTLY into a backflip, and you’ll be seriously hurt as well as poisoned. And don’t think Pink Rathian is going to let you heal it off. I normally enjoy a tougher subspecies, but Pink Rathian really gets under my skin. (At least she isn’t as boring as green Rathian, though.) 7/10

New Stuff: Those “seriously annoying new attacks” mentioned above. She also shares Rathian’s new G-Rank combo – now with 50% more flames. 5/10

Equipment: Her weapons are upgraded from Rathian weapons, which obviously make them stronger. Her armor is also a step up from Rathian’s set, sporting the awesome Fire Atk +2 and Windproof skills! If you’re willing to brave Pink Rathian again and again, your Fire-element weapons will gain a massive boost, and you’ll never have to fear the dreaded “windpress” ever again. 7/10

Cutscene: N/A

Summary: A prettier, tougher, and more irritating version of the classic Rathian. Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate and 4 Ultimate have granted some significant changes to the Pink Rathian, making her a much different monster than her green counterpart. She puts up a good challenge, but it’s easy to lose your temper when you fight her… Overall 6/10