The skies of Wyveria are patrolled by a formidable construct, the Guardian Rathalos, a synthetic terror forged by ancient hands. Unlike its natural counterpart, this artificial predator draws power from Wyvern Milk and exhibits heightened aerial aggression, making it a challenging foe for any hunter. This guide will equip you with the knowledge needed to face this mechanical menace, covering its location, weaknesses, attack patterns, and strategic approaches to ensure your victory in Monster Hunter Wilds.
Guardian Rathalos in MH Wilds
Guardian Rathalos is an artificial monster created by an ancient civilization, infused with the power of the original Rathalos. Unlike natural creatures, they cannot reproduce and don’t need food to survive, drawing energy instead from Wyvern Milk. Just like their organic counterpart, they are exceptional fliers, becoming even more aggressive in the air, where they rely on powerful claw attacks. These constructs can only be found in the Wyveria region.
Guardian Rathalos Location in MH Wilds
You’ll first meet Guardian Rathalos in Chapter 3 during The Faithful Keepers main mission. To unlock this monster, simply follow the main questline. Guardian Rathalos only appears in the Wyveria biome, usually around areas 1 and 2. Since it’s a flying monster, it tends to move around, so be sure to keep an eye on the map!
Guardian Rathalos Weakness in MH Wilds
While several elements can work against Rathalos, its biggest weakness is Dragon-type weapons. If you don’t have a Dragon weapon when you face it, Thunder is a solid backup. Just make sure not to use Fire-type weapons they won’t do you any favors.
When it comes to weapon types, Rathalos is most vulnerable to Blunt damage. Hammers and Hunting Horns, which deal the highest blunt damage, are your best bet for this fight. The monster’s weakest spot is its head, rated four stars in the Large Monster Guide, so focus your attacks there to maximize damage. If you can’t hit the head, aim for the wings, legs, or tail they’re the next best targets.
Guardian Rathalos Attacks in MH Wilds
Rathalos is a classic Monster Hunter experience, and the Guardian Rathalos takes it up a notch with some extra tricks. It has three main states you need to watch for, often blending them together during battle.
On the ground: Rathalos relies mostly on physical attacks. If it looks to the side, brace yourself — it’s about to do two tail swipes in a half-circle. If you’re standing right in front of its mouth, it might lunge forward for a quick bite. Hang around its wings and legs too long, and it’ll jump up slightly before slamming back down with its feet. If its mouth is on fire, be extra careful it can follow up with two fast head swipes, trying to bite you.
In the air: Guardian Rathalos has a range of attacks to close the gap between you and your teammates. If it pulls its body back and spreads its legs while facing you, it’s about to dive at you like a hawk. It can also swipe its tail mid-air or rapidly flap its wings before slamming to the ground. Sometimes, it’ll do a sudden “slide” attack, almost like it’s skating through the air.
Rathalos also uses quick bursts of flight to reposition itself, damaging anything in its path. When it’s airborne, your best bet is to use pods or ammo that match its elemental weaknesses Thunder and Dragon and target any visible wounds. If it’s flying low, melee weapons with good reach, like Great Swords, can hit its wings and potentially knock it out of the sky.
Fire attacks: Rathalos starts using fire after letting out a loud growl, which ends with flames shooting from its mouth. Once this happens, even if the flames seem to die down, it can still use fire attacks at any time.
- If you’re too close, it’ll spit fire right at you.
- If you’re too far away, it’ll launch two fire blasts from a distance.
- Watch out for its deadliest move it’ll fly up, tilt its head to the side, and then spin in place, breathing fire in a circle beneath it.
How to fight Guardian Rathalos
Focus on weak points as much as possible. The head deals the most damage, but it’s risky you’ll be exposed to bites and fire, so only go for it when Rathalos is stunned or locked into an animation. The legs are safer targets since you’ll likely be near them while dodging. Don’t forget about the wings and tail severing the tail reduces its range, making the fight easier.
Traps are also crucial. The more you can force Rathalos to the ground, the better. If it’s staying airborne for too long, set a trap and bait it toward you. Time your dodge right, and it’ll land straight into it. Stay sharp, dodge the fire, and keep hammering those weak spots that’s the key to taking down Guardian Rathalos.
