Rathalos

Learn Rathalos's weaknesses, attacks, and best strategies to defeat this iconic flying wyvern in Monster Hunter Generations. Master the King of the Skies!

Alright, so you've heard about Rathalos, right? The big red dragon that's basically the poster child for Monster Hunter? He's been in every game since the beginning, and for good reason – he's a classic! You'll recognize him by his awesome red and black scales and those massive wings. He's a real looker, but don't let his style fool you, he's a tough fight.

Before we dive in, remember that Rathalos doesn't like Fire attacks at all, but he's super weak to Dragon and Thunder. Keep that in mind when you're picking your gear!

Stats / Weaknesses:

• Elemental Weaknesses: Dragon, Thunder
• Resistances: Fire

Phases:

1. Ground Combat: Rathalos will often stay on the ground, using a mix of bites, charges, and tail swings. This is your chance to get in some hits, but be ready to dodge.
2. Aerial Combat: He'll take to the skies, spitting fireballs and swooping down with talon attacks. This is where things get tricky, but also where you can exploit his weaknesses.

Strategy:

• Watch out for the Side Chomp: It's not the strongest attack, but it's quick and can catch you off guard if you're not paying attention.
• Dodge the Fireball: He'll spit these out, sometimes in threes. Keep moving and don't stand in the fire!
• Beware the Charge: Rathalos will charge at you, often three times in a row. If he gets tired, he might even fall over, giving you an opening.
• The Double 180 Tailswing: This one's got a wide reach, so give him some space when you see him winding up.
• Aerial Fireball: When he flies up, he'll rain fire down. This is a great time to use Flash Bombs – they'll stun him as he descends, leaving him wide open.
• Homing Talon Swipe: This is a nasty one. He'll fly up, hover, and then dive-bomb you with a claw swipe that can poison you! You'll need a shield or a perfectly timed dodge to avoid it. If you get hit, use a Nulberry or Antidote ASAP.
• Flying Charge: He'll zoom low across the ground. It's fast, but he only does it once, so be ready to dodge.
• Breakable Parts: Don't forget you can break his Head, Back, Wings (both of them!), and cut off his Tail. Breaking these can give you extra rewards and sometimes make him less dangerous.
• Location, Location, Location: Rathalos can show up in a few different places. Keep an eye out for him in the Jurassic Frontier (Areas 4, 7, 9, 10), Verdant Hills (Area 5), Deserted Island (Area 8), Volcano (Area 10), Ancestral Steppe (Area 4), and Volcanic Hollow (Area 8). Knowing where he likes to hang out can help you prepare for the hunt.