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Monster Rancher Guides - Beginner to Advanced!

Community vetted guides, tools and resources. Raise the best monsters! Choose your game and select a category in each section to learn more!
Monster Rancher 1 (+DX) Monster Rancher 2 (+DX) Monster Rancher 3 Monster Rancher 4 Monster Rancher EVO Ultra Kaiju Monster Rancher LINE:Monster Farm Monster Rancher Advance Monster Rancher Advance 2 Monster Rancher DS Monster Rancher Battle Card Monster Rancher Pictures Monster Rancher Technical Stuff Monster Rancher General Stuff Monster Rancher Old Stuff

 

Monster Rancher 1 Guides
Released on Playstation (1997), MR1DX on Steam, Switch, iOS (2021)
MR1 (1997) VS. MR1DX (2021)
Note that Monster Rancher 1 DX is not a port of Monster Rancher 1. It is a port of Monster Farm (1) with new translation, modifications. Monster Rancher 1 had a few Quality of Life improvements that were not in the original Japanese Monster Farm.

FeatureMR1 1997MR1DX 2021
Exploits--DX Introduces Gangster (Magic/Henger) available from the shrine, prior to unlocking Henger.
A Combining exploit allows a Pure Henger to be brute force unlocked when using Ganster in combination. (See unlock guide)
Fast ForwardNot in original gameNew feature in DX, can enable double speed play
FontOriginal BMP fontNew font is Seurat Capie Pro
Item changesVitamin C -1wk per week, and Vitamin D -2 wks per wk (x4 weeks)Vitamin C -3wks per week, and Vitamin D -6 wks per wk (x4 weeks)
Item ShopNot Stackable, can't be purchased in bulkStackable items (Takes up same amount of inventory) and can be purchased in bulk.
Lab10 Freezer Slots20 Freezer Slots
Load TimesPlayStation loading timesNearly instantaneous load times
Monsters (New)Has the original monstersSome MR2 monsters are retrofitted to be in MR1DX (Examples: Skeleton, Moo).
Some skin recolors of rares have also been added.
Monsters (Variants)Original only has 1 variant for every Pure and Mixed breed (not counting small starting stat offsets)DX introduces many variants with hidden differences that didn't exist before.
Differences from Baseline include Will regen, Seriousness, Potential, vastly different stat spreads from the norm etc.
Online Save PVPNot in original gameNew feature in DX, also cross-region compatible (EN can fight JP etc)
PlatformPlayStation (1) OnlySteam, Nintendo Switch, iOS
ShrineUses physical CDs & Track dataUses 644k offline/local CDDB and other new tables to determine offsets
Bugs (not fixed)These bugs persisted in MR1DX from MF1 & MR1 '97.

- Vitamin C/D and Medicine A/B still affect different monsters if you use the item and then change the active monster.

- Vitamin C/D still apply even when doing expeditions.

- Laguna/Ragnarox still has the wrong seriousness (5 instead of 45 or 50).

- Buggy critical damage values like Hook work as before. (See tech list)

- Some combining bugs like those affecting Magic, Golem, and Dino that create different compatibility types or inherited techniques are unfixed.

Bugs (Fixed)The listed bugs that are fixed in MR1DX existed in MF1 '97. Some may already have been fixed in MR1 '97

- Bug with Potential causing failures after Prime is reached.

- Work and Training always fails during Prime/Peak growths after reaching 128 Potential

- Holly warned of fatigue too early (40) due to thresholds of 0-20 / 21-40 / 41-60.

- Free Loyalty (from Fear) reduced from 50 to 20 (when repeatedly going back and forth from Ranch to Town)

- Potential can now be raised to 128 through 150 without encountering the Work/Training failures after Prime.

- Issue where a Training (errantry) sale could be stored indefinitely if you've never gone there before on that save file fixed.

- Items that would reduce a value by -1 are no longer floored to 0 in regards to spoil/fear/fatigue/stress.

- Issue where stat increases from combining would not happen while using a combo item if combining with a monster that has never been to the ranch fixed.

- Holly warns of fatigue correctly (40) due to thresholds of 0-19 / 20-39 / 40-59

- Some incorrect inputs like going to wrong tournaments/drill by pressing stuff 1 frame apart fixed.

- Locking the opponent into infinite foolery with certain inputs no longer possible.

- Getting wrong techniques when combining if you generated a monster from the shrine right before fixed.

- Doodle event no longer happens if the Monol dies in the tournament that satisfies the condition.

- Picking New Game after going bankrupt no longer makes the game freeze.

Additional Thanks to JP wiki and Alchius for helping assemble these differences

MRDX Troubleshooting
Some issues with Steam client version of the game have reported issues. Almost all issues can be solved with a bit of troubleshooting:

Game does not load or launch at all

 Several potential resolutions for the game not loading. Be sure to exit the game and launcher completely between each step:
  1. Check for CPU instruction
    • The game absolutely will not run if your processor doesn't support SSE4.1 instructions.
    • To check, you can download CPUID from cpuid.com.
    • On the default "CPU" Tab look for a box labelled "Instructions" and if SSE4.1 is included.
  2. Resolution settings issue
    • Before launching the game, open up the Options tab at the game selection screen, then open the Keyboard/Resolution settings.
      Note that the small window that opens might open behind another window
    • Try changing the resolution. If it is set to Full Screen, uncheck this option and choose a small windowed option, or vice-versa.
    • Try to launch the game again. If the game launches, you can try setting the resultion back to your preferred setting or full screen again. Sometimes resetting this resolves the resolution conflict.
  3. Setting.ini file missing/broken with Non-English Operating System
    • On occasion, when some Operating Systems are in a different language, the Setting.ini file causes issues with loading the game, or is missing completely.
    • Open the Setting.ini file located in C:\Users\x\Documents\KoeiTecmo\mfdx_en ...

      ... And replace it with the following text (Click to view): 
      [Graphics]
ScreenWidth=1366
ScreenHeight=768
[Window]
FullScreen=0
[Input]
UP=UP_ARROW
DOWN=DOWN_ARROW
RIGHT=RIGHT_ARROW
LEFT=LEFT_ARROW
CIRCLE=L
CROSS=K
SQUARE=J
TRIANGLE=I
L1=Q
L2=U
L3=F
R1=E
R2=O
R3=H
START=ENTER
SELECT=N

    • If your Setting.ini file is missing completely, and creating one is being problematic, download and save this zipped Setting.ini file.
    • Unzip/Extract the file to your Documents\KoeiTecmo\mfdx_en folder to restore a working Setting.ini file. Attempt to Launch the game. If it is successful, you can exit the game and change the settings back to your preferred settings.

Game freezes in certain places

 The January F (Free for All) New Year Cup is known to freeze randomly at load or mid-tournament. No common factor has been found to determine the cause.
For other areas of random game freezing, try any of the following:
  1. Toggle "FF" (Fast Forward) to the opposite of what you had it on.
  2. Change the resolution. (If Full screen, go windowed or vice versa).
  3. If it still freezes, Update video drivers, then try the above again.
  4. Some Fight Stick controllers are also known to crash the game before reaching the Launcher.

Game won't save manually or auto save
  • If you have any Anti-Virus software running, try temporarily disabling it to see if you can save.
  • If disabling Anti-Virus works, then Steam or the Game may be added to the Anti-Virus' block list. Find the settings for your specific brand of AV to unblock the app, then start your AV back up as usual.
  • For example: Windows "Controlled Folder Access" options is a potential culprit that may need your application to be white-listed.
If that does't work...
  • Try launching the game's .exe file as Administrator.
  • Navigate to the install directory SteamLibrary\steamapps\common\mfdx\[MF or MF2]\, Right Click on the MF.exe or MF2.exe and "Run as Administrator"
If that does't work, double check your User account's permission isn't being denied access.
  1. Exit Steam completely, and Navigate to c:\Users\[YourLogin]\Documents
  2. Right Click on the KoeiTecmo folder, and choose Properties
  3. Click on the Security tab
  4. Click on your Login/User name (NOT System, and NOT Administrators)
  5. Check that Everything is Allowed and nothing is Denied.

    6. If you see Anything Denied...
  6. Click the Edit button to open the permissions for your Login/User.
  7. Click on your Login/User name (NOT System, and NOT Administrators) in the Permissions window
  8. Uncheck any boxes in the Deny column
  9. Click Apply
  10. Click Save
Now try re-launching Steam and the game and see if you can save.
Beginner's Guide
& Walk throughNever played before? This will help you understand basics, how to progress, and understand enough of the game to use the more technical guides later.  Advanced Viewer for MR1DXBy Soken - Track hidden values like Seriousness, Lifespan, Stress, Fatigue & more, all in real time! (DX Only)  Automated Backups for MRDXWindows and Linux scripts!
Automatically backup your DX Game data on Steam with PowerShell or Bash scripts (Instructions in script comments).  CalendarA Schedule of Annual Events  Cheat CodesGameshark and Cheat Engine codes for MR1 and MR1DX  Combining CalculatorA Calculator app, and/or manual guides to figure out if your monsters will combine well!  Cocooning GuideA Cocooning guide for Worm into other species and what techs of worm's become other techs for other species.  Expedition MapsExplore Titus, Hartville, Reno and discover where obstacles are and where to find special items!  ItemsConsolidated list of items, their effects, and other related data.  Make-A-Monster
PS1Make any of the MR1 CD monsters. Use with Emulation or physical console (1997 Playstation Version)  Monster Data
1997 PS1Discover Monster Stat gains, Guts regen, and other hidden data along with corresponding Book view/3D pictures.  Monster Data
& Song List
2021 MR1 DXA lot changed with DX! See the updated Monster data alongside variants plus Title & Artist suggestions to shrine them!  Techs & TrainingA Consolidated Monster Tech list and Training locations with requirements to learn them.  Opponent DataMonster Stats and totals for tournament opponents.  Raising Schedules & Other DataFeeding & Work schedules, Lifespan Index informantion and other related data.  Unlock Everything!Get all Ranch upgrades, Unlock all 20 Monster Types, plus Cocooning Guide.  1997 CD ListPhysical CD list For the original 1997 game on PS1. 日本語ウィキ
MF1 WikiThis wiki is blocked from outside of Japan around April 2024 and can only be accessed via VPN connection to Japan.

 

Monster Rancher 2 Guides
Released on Playstation (1999), MR2DX on Steam, Switch, iOS (2021)
MR2 (1999) VS. MR2DX (2021)
Note that Monster Rancher 2 DX is not a port of Monster Rancher 2. It is actually a port of Monster Farm 2 with new translation, modifications. Monster Rancher 2 had a few Quality of Life improvements that were not in the original Japanese Monster Farm 2, as a result you may notice missing features. (Skip Drills as an example).

FeatureMR2 1999MR2DX 2021
AI AttackingAI won’t attack under 45 gutsAI attacks at any guts amount
AudioOriginal game soundtrackIncludes a remastered soundtrack in addition to the original
Battle SpecialsUnity and Ease are buggedUnity and Ease are corrected. (See Battle Specials for details)
Colt's AlertsReceived Prime Stage alert only once, then never again for any other monsterAlways receive Prime Stage alerts for all monsters
Combining1% unobtainable bug (You can get a 1% if there are two 1%s)Same 1% bug, plus 2-3% bug that only gives base stats.
Controller SetupNTSC/NA LayoutOriginal JP layout
Drill SkippingDrills can be skipped in MR2Drills cannot be skipped in MR2DX (Errantry can still be skipped)
ErrantryCalculates Lifespan hit twice after returningDouble lifespan hit fixed
ExpeditionMinimum 8 weeks lifespan cost (3+3 * LI) for expedition + (1 + 1*LI) start of week 1Minimum 2 weeks lifespan cost (0 lifespan hit for expedition) + (1 + 1*LI) start of week 1
Fast ForwardNot in original gameNew feature in DX, can enable double speed play
FontOriginal font is a Comic Sans-like (.BMP)New font is Seurat Capie Pro
Freezer Slots10 slots20 slots
Gemini PotsUsed for added Fear, and Reduces Stress 3% floored per pot on Week 1 (Stress exceeds LI before it can be useful).Same as original function but now has at least a minimum of -1 stress per pot (useful even at low Stress levels).
GraphicsOriginal PSX graphicsWrapped emulator bumps up the texture/resolution of original textures
ItemsNot Stackable, can't be purchased in bulkStackable items (Takes up same amount of inventory) and can be purchased in bulk
King ApeKing Ape only encountered after Magic Banana is in the Shop, and cannot be encountered after Nageel is in the shopCan no longer be locked out of this encounter
LifespansHas +100 additional weeks for each monster compared to the original Monster Farm 2Has original Monster Farm 2 lifespans (-100 weeks of 1999 Monster Rancher 2)
Load TimesLong load times between town/ranch etc.Instant or near instant load times
Magic BananasCould add/remove lifespan by 1 week depending on RNGRemoves Stress/Fatigue/Both depending on RNG
Mock SeedsCan get locked out of this monster forever if you fail to rank up soon enough.Can no longer be locked out of this event and monster.
Monsters (1 week)Only Sueki SuezoSueki Suezo in addition to a variant of Draco Mocchi
Monsters (Enemy)Enemy Monsters collectable as Cards onlyEnemy & Boss monsters legally playable/Shrinable in addition to getting their Cards
Monsters (Opponents) -- Some tournament opponents have adjusted/MF2 Stats (Lucky in Elder's cup for example)
Monsters (Rare)Has NTSC/EN region monsters only.Has both EN, JP region monsters
Monsters (Regular)Missing Proto Messiah (Henger/Gali), Kato is censoredHas Proto Messiah (Henger/Gali), Kato is not censored.
NatureWhen combining, a Baby's starting Base nature is affected by the Parent's true/current nature and Baby breed base nature.When combining, a Baby's Base nature determined solely by the Baby's breed.
Nature from Disc Chips in combining is bugged, giving little or no benefit.
Online Save PVPNot in original gameNew feature in DX, also cross-region compatible (EN can fight JP etc)
PlatformPlayStation (1) OnlySteam, Nintendo Switch, iOS
Pocket StationNo Pocket Station supportBuilt in PocketStation mini game. Can also shrine DNA monsters without doing mini-game.
ShrineUses physical CDs & Track dataUses 644k offline/local CDDB and other new tables to determine offsets
Shrined MonstersPredictable hard coded monsters and monsters with offset. (See Laboratory/Make-A-Montser)Multiple variants that don't exist in the original game, and offsets are handled more randomly. (See MR2DX CD List)
Stat LevelsExcept for LIF, Stats calculated every 50 points/by level, and Lv20/950 is the highest thresholdExcept for LIF, Stats are calculated on average every 12.5 points (13, 12 etc.) and due to how new math and rounding works, 999 counts as the max level
Swim Drill BugDEF & LIF gains are swapped for SwimBug fixed in DX
Strong GluePermanently stuck in inventory. Required cheats to get rid of it.You can now sell the Strong Glue after you have unlocked Ducken at the Shrine.
Tech RequirementsSome techs were not obtainable (Kato's Oil Fire/Flame)Some tech stat requirements are different. Kato's Oil Fire/Flame is obtainable. (See Tech List/Errantry Calculator)
Touch ScreenNot an optionTouch Screen support for iOS, Mouse Click support for PC/Steam
Training HistoryFeature doesn't existNew feature in DX, can see last 2 months of drills
TranslationA bad translation full of grammatical errorsA new equally bad translation but with new grammatical errors. Skill Get!!!

MRDX Troubleshooting
Some issues with Steam client version of the game have reported issues. Almost all issues can be solved with a bit of troubleshooting:

Game does not load or launch at all

 Several potential resolutions for the game not loading. Be sure to exit the game and launcher completely between each step:
  1. Check for CPU instruction
    • The game absolutely will not run if your processor doesn't support SSE4.1 instructions.
    • To check, you can download CPUID from cpuid.com.
    • On the default "CPU" Tab look for a box labelled "Instructions" and if SSE4.1 is included.
  2. Resolution settings issue
    • Before launching the game, open up the Options tab at the game selection screen, then open the Keyboard/Resolution settings.
      Note that the small window that opens might open behind another window
    • Try changing the resolution. If it is set to Full Screen, uncheck this option and choose a small windowed option, or vice-versa.
    • Try to launch the game again. If the game launches, you can try setting the resultion back to your preferred setting or full screen again. Sometimes resetting this resolves the resolution conflict.
  3. Setting.ini file missing/broken with Non-English Operating System
    • On occasion, when some Operating Systems are in a different language, the Setting.ini file causes issues with loading the game, or is missing completely.
    • Open the Setting.ini file located in C:\Users\x\Documents\KoeiTecmo\mfdx_en ...

      ... And replace it with the following text (Click to view): 
      [Graphics]
ScreenWidth=1366
ScreenHeight=768
[Window]
FullScreen=0
[Input]
UP=UP_ARROW
DOWN=DOWN_ARROW
RIGHT=RIGHT_ARROW
LEFT=LEFT_ARROW
CIRCLE=L
CROSS=K
SQUARE=J
TRIANGLE=I
L1=Q
L2=U
L3=F
R1=E
R2=O
R3=H
START=ENTER
SELECT=N

    • If your Setting.ini file is missing completely, and creating one is being problematic, download and save this zipped Setting.ini file.
    • Unzip/Extract the file to your Documents\KoeiTecmo\mfdx_en folder to restore a working Setting.ini file. Attempt to Launch the game. If it is successful, you can exit the game and change the settings back to your preferred settings.

Game freezes in certain places

 The January F (Free for All) New Year Cup is known to freeze randomly at load or mid-tournament. No common factor has been found to determine the cause.
For other areas of random game freezing, try any of the following:
  1. Toggle "FF" (Fast Forward) to the opposite of what you had it on.
  2. Change the resolution. (If Full screen, go windowed or vice versa).
  3. If it still freezes, Update video drivers, then try the above again.
  4. Some Fight Stick controllers are also known to crash the game before reaching the Launcher.

Game won't save manually or auto save
  • If you have any Anti-Virus software running, try temporarily disabling it to see if you can save.
  • If disabling Anti-Virus works, then Steam or the Game may be added to the Anti-Virus' block list. Find the settings for your specific brand of AV to unblock the app, then start your AV back up as usual.
  • For example: Windows "Controlled Folder Access" options is a potential culprit that may need your application to be white-listed.
If that does't work...
  • Try launching the game's .exe file as Administrator.
  • Navigate to the install directory SteamLibrary\steamapps\common\mfdx\[MF or MF2]\, Right Click on the MF.exe or MF2.exe and "Run as Administrator"
If that does't work, double check your User account's permission isn't being denied access.
  1. Exit Steam completely, and Navigate to c:\Users\[YourLogin]\Documents
  2. Right Click on the KoeiTecmo folder, and choose Properties
  3. Click on the Security tab
  4. Click on your Login/User name (NOT System, and NOT Administrators)
  5. Check that Everything is Allowed and nothing is Denied.

    6. If you see Anything Denied...
  6. Click the Edit button to open the permissions for your Login/User.
  7. Click on your Login/User name (NOT System, and NOT Administrators) in the Permissions window
  8. Uncheck any boxes in the Deny column
  9. Click Apply
  10. Click Save
Now try re-launching Steam and the game and see if you can save.
Beginner's Guide
& Walk throughNever played before? This will help you understand basics, how to progress, and understand enough of the game to use the more technical guides later.  Advanced Viewer for MR2By Lexi - Track hidden values like Lifespan, Stress, Fatigue & more, all in real time! (Emu or PC/MR2DX)  MR2DX Mods with Reloaded IIA Mod Loader for use with the Steam version of MRDX  Automated Backups for MRDXWindows and Linux scripts!
Automatically backup your DX Game data on Steam with PowerShell or Bash scripts (Instructions in script comments).  Battle CalculatorCheck battle statistics between Attacker & Defender to determine damage given or received outcomes.  Battle SpecialsExplanation of battle specials and details about how they work. Includes data from Alchius & SmilingFaces96.  CalendarA Schedule of Annual Events, Tournament data, and prizes.  Cheat CodesGameshark and Cheat Engine codes for MR2 and MR2DX  Combining CalculatorA Combination Calculator app, and Guides for planning your baby monsters, or see the possibilities of your existing monsters.  Cocooning GuideA Cocooning guide for Worm into other species and what techs of worm's become other techs for other species.  Expedition MapsExplore Torles, Kawrea, Parepare maps. Discover where to find special items, plus additional detailed expedition information.  Item ListA consolidated list of all items, effects, and other details.  Make-A-Monster
PS1(For MR2 1999) Make ANY monster or variation of a monster within the game's defined limits. Use with Emulation or physical console.  Monster Cards
2021 MR2DXAll 415 Full Monster Card images in MR2DX with searchable text.  Monster Data
1999 PS1Stat Gains, Life span, Life types, Life Stages and more. Detailed data breakdown of each monster.  Monster Data
& Song List
2021 MR2 DXA lot changed with DX! See the updated Monster data alongside variants plus Title & Artist suggestions to shrine them!  Monster Growth Stages
Visual GuideA visual reference guide to help you see your monster's growth stages.  Opponents and EnemiesMonster data for tournament opponents and errantry enemies.  Raising Schedules & Other DataCore concepts, Feeding & Drill schedules, and additional tips for beginner to advanced play.  Raising Methodologies for PVPNow that you have the basics down, you can learn PVP methodologies which differ from single player.  Tech List
& Errantry CalculatorSee all monster techs and your chances to get techs on an Errantry.  Tournament PlannerThis tool helps you gauge progress towards tournament stat caps and rules for online and community run tournaments  Tournament ScoreboardPopulate Monster icons and names for holding a tournament and keep track of scores.  Training PlannerShows lifespan hits over time based on your choices. Try out custom training methods or see what it is like to mix in Errantry, Battles, Expeditions etc.  Unlock Everything!Get All Ranch upgrades, All 38 Monster types, DX exclusives, plus Cocooning Guide.  1999 NTSC/NA CD ListFor the original game (Physical CDs / North America)  1999 PAL CD list*NOT for NTSC/US versions! An effort to document PAL region CDs. (MR2 was released only as "Monster Rancher" in PAL region such as UK and Australia).

Japanese Sites

Data Mined Research for MR2

 

Monster Rancher 3 Guides
Released on Playstation 2 (2001)
 Advanced Viewer for MR3By Most - Track hidden values in real time!  AccessoriesA list of accessories and their descriptions.  Background MusicThe complete Background music from the game.  CharactersEncyclopedia pictures and Monster Data.  Kalaragi Bug ExplainedImportant info about a game-breaking bug in MR3 present in the 1.0 version of the game  Encyclopedia SharingA guide for how to load memory cards and copy monsters between 2 different game saves for Playstation 2, and PCSX2.  AttributesA list of Monster attributes and what their effects are.  Item ListItem information   Monster Data (2001)Encyclopedia pictures and Monster Data.  Raising MethodLocale Drills & Fenricks Four hour Forumla.  Ran Ran
Adventure MapsExplore all locations: Brilla, Goat, Takrama, Kalaragi, Morx and search key locations.  Tech ListComplete Tech List by Breed with other data, such as which Bits, Stones, Orbs teach them and how they level up.  Unlock Everything!Region and Monster unlocking guide
MRM Archive Highlights!

 

Monster Rancher 4 Guides
Released on Playstation 2 (2003)
Basics of RanchingRaising, Battling, Ranch upgrades & management.  CombiningAffinity & Compatibility: How combining works in MR4.  Dungeon GuideMaps, Adventure Skills, and loot tables from each location.  Items Inventory & GadgetsTraining Gadgets, Shop upgrades, Food, combining items etc.   Monster DataBook entries of Monster Pictures, stats, descriptions/Lore.  Monster Data SupplementalMonster Growth stages, Aging types, Lifespans & Temperaments  Monster TechsTech Charts and tech attributes for all monsters.  Unlock EverythingUnlocking all monster breeds in Monster Rancher 4. WalkthroughA Story & Event walkthrough (SPOILERS)! ADC*Ken's GameFAQsThe sections here on LC are largely sourced from ADC*Ken's guide (with permission) and may have some alterations. This is the Source.
MRM Archive Highlights!

 

Monster Rancher EVO (5) Guides
Released on Playstation 2 (2005)
 Monster Info
& Encyclopedia ImagesBook entries of Monster Pictures, stats, descriptions/Lore.
MRM Archive Highlights!

 

Ultra Kaiju Monster Rancher Guides
Released on Nintendo Switch (Oct. 2022).
Differences between versions

There are 3 versions of Ultra Kaiju: Japanese, Southeast Asia, North America

  1. JP version has a Song List of Japanese titles and artists.
  2. SEA version has a Song List of mixed english and other titles and artists
  3. NA version, the Song List has been replaced with "Keywords" free-form entry fields.
Buying from the eStore outside of region

How can I buy the North American version if I'm outside of the region?

Summary:
The Switch is region free and will play any other region's games.
  1. Buy target region currency gift card.
  2. Make a new, or Switch your current account to target region.
  3. Redeem gift card balance you purchased.
  4. Buy/download game.
  5. Switch back to your local region.

If buying the Southeast Asian physical version, which is Hong Kong region but in English, from import resellers or auction sites is too expensive, and you'd rather get the North American digital version on sale follow the below instructions:

First Steps: How-To Buy yourself a gift card in the target region's currency:
This example will use G2A.com, but can work similarly with any reseller.

  1. Create an account with G2A.
  2. At the bottom of the Marketplace page, there is an option to change the currency you wish to buy and view items in.
  3. Change it to your country's currency (eg. Euro, GBP etc.)
  4. Search for Nintendo Ecard. At first it will show you only ones in your country, instead choose show all and then tick USA.
    • The name of the product should be something like Nintendo Eshop Card 10 USD UNITED STATES AMERICA. However the price to buy the card should be displayed in your countries currency.
    • In the information it will say that this card can not be redeemed in your country.
  5. Buy the target country's Ecard in your own country's currency using a credit card or Pay Pal.
    (You may need to provide any american Zipcode, which can be easily be searched online)
  6. An Email will be sent where you can access the Keycode for your Ninetendo gift card.
Second Steps: How-To Redeem the gift card you bought for yourself in the target region's eStore:
  1. The USD Gift card you purchased can only be redeemed in America so you will need to do ONE of the following:
    • Option 1: Create a secondary American Nintendo account just for purchasing and downloading NA region games. Your Switch will still be able to play all the games you download regardless of which account you're logged into, and remaining balances can be saved for future potential purchases.
    • Option 2: Change your current account's region to America/US. Just be aware that You may not be able to switch your region back if a balance remains. (You can reach out to Nintendo/submit a ticket to get the account zerod out if you don't care about any remaining balance, then switch back to your real region later)
  2. Log into the Nintendo website (Nintendo.com website, not your Switch console) with your US Account.
    • OR If you opted to change your current account's region, rather than create a second account:
      1. Log In → Click on your name → Click Account Settings
      2. In your profile area click Edit
      3. In the Country/Region of residence, choose United States.
      4. You'll likely need to provide any US Zipcode, which can be easily be searched online.
        * Save the Zipcode & City for next steps!
  3. While logged into Nintendo.com as US region, Click on "Redeed Code" and enter the US region Gift Card Code you purchased. You may need to provide the same City and Zipcode you saved from earlier.
  4. Purchase the desired game from the US store with your redeemed US currency balance, and download!
  5. Once finished you can Log out of your US account and log back into your actual region's account again, or switch your Nintendo Account's region back to your current region, depending on which option you chose.
Once downloaded, the game is completely playable regardless of which account or region you're logged in with, since the Switch itself is region-free.

Beginner's Guide
& Walk throughSupplemental to the in-game tutorial and Help, This will help you understand basics, how to progress, and understand enough of the game to use the more technical guides later.  In-Game
Help MenuThe In-Game Help menu and and tutorial data transcribed for easier searching of a topic.  Keywords List
North AmericaOver 2 Million Keywords solved and filtered for a huge variety of unique Kaiju variants for all breeds and crossbreeds.  Song List
Southeast Asia
(English)Massive Song List with no duplicates, data-mined from the Southeast Asian English version of the game. 曲目リスト ＆
モンスターデータ究極のウルトラ怪獣ソングデータベース。  Adventure MapsAdventure (Expedition) locations in UKMR, with detailed breakdowns and locations of special items.  Background MusicThe complete Background music from the game.  Background WallpaperHigh resolution background wallpaper images from the game's credits  Basic Kaiju DataBaseline Stat gains, Guts regen, Life type and Lifespans. Initial discovery before data-mining Variants and Offsets.  Battle CalculatorCheck battle statistics between Attacker & Defender.  CalendarA schedule of Annual events, tournaments, and opponent data.  Field Guide:
PortraitsThe field guide portrait buttons  Field Guide:
KaijuView mode of Kaiju in the Field Guide plus their lore descriptions.  Fusion CalculatorFind out if your two parents will make a decent baby!  Item ListsItem tables for Consumables, Combining, and Passive items etc.  Keyword Solver
(NA version)Keywords emulation: See complete Kaiju data for what any Keyword can create (Stats, Guts, Gains, Techs etc.)  NFC ResearchDiscovery for NFCs and how they work in UKMR.  Opponent dataKaiju data for tournament opponents, Aventure and other encounters.  Raising Schedules & Other DataFeeding/Drill schedules, Drill gains/levels, Single Player & Competitive tips.  Techs & ErrantryHow to get all Kaiju Techs and their values & Status Ailments!  Tournament Planner for UKMRThis tool helps you gauge progress towards tournament stat caps and rules for online and community run tournaments  UMF Code SolverEnter in a valid UMF code to see the possible outcomes.  Unlock EverythingUnlock guide for all Kaiju, Ranch upgrades, Trainers, and Tournaments.

Data Mined Research for Ultra Kaiju
External Links

 

LINE: Monster Farm
Released in Japan/Mobile (2023)
External Links and resources for LMF

 

Monster Rancher Battle Card
Released on Playstation (2000) - Physical version released in Japan only.
 Monster Rancher
Battle Card
(Physical CCG)Scans of the Japanese card game, English translations of Cards and Rules and searchable databases.  LackeyCCG mod for MRBC
(Free Virtualization)Use the 100% Free LackeyCCG application, along with the free plugin managed by LegendCup to play MRBC as a tabletop card game online or in solitaire mode.

This is NOT a single player automation, it is played as you would play the physical card game.  TTS mod for MRBC
(Virtualization)A Tabletop Simulator mod for MRBC managed by Filipemqt. This mod is free, however Tabletop simulator is not free.

This is NOT a single player automation, it is played as you would play the physical card game. Monster Rancher
Battle Card:
Episode II (PS1)Pictures of some of the PS1 game cards.

 

Monster Rancher Advance Guides
Released on GameBoy Advance (2001)
  Cheat CodesGameShark cheat codes for Monster Rancher Advance (1)  Raising MechanicsHidden data and values for Actions and Items to help you raise your monster.
MRM Archive Highlights!

 

Monster Rancher Advance 2 Guides
Released on GameBoy Advance (2002)
  Cheat CodesGameBreaker cheat codes for MRA2  Expedition MapsExplore Tapota, Malkt, and Promiass expedition locations.  Raising MechanicsHidden data and values for Actions and Items to help you raise your monster. Ultimate Password ListEggie's guide on IGN
MRM Archive Highlights!

 

Monster Rancher DS Guides
Released as MR DS on Nintendo DS (2008), This is Monster Farm DS 2.
 Monster Rancher DSEncyclopedia entries of Monster Pictures, stats, descriptions/Lore.
MRM Archive Highlights!

 

Technical Stuff
The LaboratoryMake-A-Monster Subcode Data and Instructions to Make your own CDs with specific monsters! Monsters from CDs? How does that work? What is a
Dex Drive? What is a Xport / Sharkport? The Xport User's GuideHow to Backup Data to your PC or put it back onto your Memory Card

 

General Stuff
What is Monster Rancher? What does LegendCup.com offer? How Online Tournaments work Donations!Help keep the site and years of archived data available to the world!

 

Old Stuff
Retired Legend Cup pages
The LaboratoryThe original methods for Burning CD Sub-Code data for MR1, MR2, MR3, MR4 WallpaperWallpaper from the Anime Winamp SkinsWinamp skins for an old version of Winamp. ButtonsButtons created back in the Link Exchange days. Fan WorksOriginal Fan submissions before the advent of image boards and such. Fenrick's MR2 stuffPersonal Monsters from a long time ago. Fenrick's MR3 stuffPersonal Monsters from a long time ago.

The first ever tournaments (Archives)
The Original and first Online Tournaments!

Streaming was very difficult in 1999-2005. Many fights had video streams but no audio, and without today's streaming technology, none of it was permanently recorded to upload to services that did not exist yet. All recaps are transcriptions of relaying fight details over a chatroom, which served somewhat as a text-based "radio broadcast" of a fight.

Known sales information

World-wide Sales data with different visuals. This information does not include the DX sales of MR1&2DX. If you know a source that has sales data that includes newer releases please let us know!

Comparisons:

  • MR1 sold 1.01 Million copies.
  • MR2 sold 1.05 Million copies.
  • MR3 sold 10.4% of what MR2 sold. MR3 would have needed to sell 9.5 times more than it did to match MR2.
  • MR4 sold 7.6% of what MR2 sold. MR4 would have needed to sell 13 times more than it did to match MR2.
  • EVO/5 sold 1.9% of what MR2 sold. EVO would have needed to sell 52 times more than it did to match MR2.
  • If you combined the sales of MR3 + MR4 + EVO it would require about 5 times the units sold to match MR2.

 

Monster Rancher Pictures
Monster Rancher 1
Monster Rancher 2
Other Titles
Monster Rancher 3
Monster Data (2001)Encyclopedia pictures and Monster Data. Monster Rancher 4
Monster DataBook entries of Monster Pictures, stats, descriptions/Lore. MR EVO Encyclopedia Images & InfoBook entries of Monster Pictures, stats, descriptions/Lore. Ultra Kaiju
Monster Rancher
Field GuideView mode of Kaiju in the Field Guide plus their lore descriptions. Monster Rancher
Battle Card:
Episode IIPictures of some of the PS1 game cards. Monster Farm
Battle Card
TCCGThe Japanese physical Collectible Card Game (CCG). This has "new" cards not seen in the GameBoy and PlayStation versions of the game. Scans of Cards, Rules and downloads. Monster Rancher DSEncyclopedia entries of Monster Pictures, stats, descriptions/Lore. Monster Rancher
Hop-A-BoutA collection of tile icons from the game along with an old personal review.
This page was last modified: January 15 2025
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