Monster Rancher

Story

Although it is possible to acquire a monster in the game, the series is known for the fact that new monsters can be acquired using compact discs (CDs). Players can use any readable CD and the game creates a monster based on the data stored on it. Certain CDs lead to unique monsters: for example, some Christmas music albums give the player a "Santa" type monster. Once the player has two or more monsters in reserve, they can be combined to create a new monster with the characteristics of both "parents". Once the player has a monster, he can grow it into a battle machine. There are six stats that determine how the monster does in battle: strength powers physical attacks, intelligence powers and deflects energy attacks, life determines the monster's hit points, dexterity affects marksmanship, speed helps dodge enemy attacks, and defense reduces the damage done by physical attacks. Monsters train either by completing tasks nearby, or they can be sent to experts where they can learn new attack techniques. The main way to advance in the game is through the monster fighting tournaments. In battle, each monster has different attacks available, some only up close, others from a distance. Players cannot directly control the monster in battle, but they can ask their monster to stay away or approach and attack it with the move that is available in the current range.