Monster Hunter's Two Types of Lynians Explained

Summary

Felynes and Melynxes in Monster Hunter resemble domestic cats and are helpful to hunters.
Shakalakas and Gajalakas are humanoid Lynians with a tribal appearance and are more aggressive than the cat-like Lynians.
Gajalakas, known for their intelligence and tactics, can be befriended by players in Monster Hunter: World for assistance in quests.

Capcom's Monster Hunter franchise has long been far more than a loot-driven monster hunting game, with a world that is constantly evolving with each installment. There are many types of monsters in the intricate world of Monster Hunter, of course, but there are plenty of other creatures as well. In fact, one species of creature, many fans may not even know by name, although they are likely more familiar with it than they may realize. That species is Lynians.

Monster Hunter's Lynians are split into two distinct types, with each of those types consisting of two different variations. Felynes and Melynxes make up one type of Lynian in Monster Hunter, as they resemble a domestic cat. The other type of Lynian in Monster Hunter is made up of Shakalakas and Gajalakas, both of which are more humanoid in their appearance and are considered the series' classic Lynian variant.

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By Josh Cotts

The Two Types of Lynians in Monster Hunter

Felynes and Melynxes Are Lynians That Resemble Domestic Cats

Among the two types of Lynians in the Monster Hunter franchise, modern fans of the series are likely to be most familiar with Felynes. This is because Monster Hunter's Palicoes are the most famous type of Felyne, resembling adorable domestic cats who follow players on their adventures. Palicoes most recently rose to prominence in Monster Hunter: World, which is considered a great entry point for new players on account of its increased accessibility in comparison to earlier titles. Since World's release, Palicoes have been known to help players complete quests by attacking or distracting monsters, as well as healing and buffing the player and their allies.

The other domestic-cat type of Lynian in Monster Hunter is the Melynx, who is mischievous and sometimes even a little hostile. That being said, Melynxes are rarely dangerous, although they have been known to steal items from hunters while they're out on expeditions. As far as their physical traits go, Melynxes do share some similarities with their Felyne cousins, but their fur is generally darker, often black or brown, whereas Felynes typically have a lighter color. Furthermore, since Melynxes are playful tricksters who hinder rather than help hunters, they are even further distinguished from Felynes.

Shakalakas and Gajalakas Are Humanoid Lynians That Look More Tribal

The other type of Lynians consists of Shakalakas and Gajalakas, though they are likely less familiar to players than Felynes and Melynxes. Shakalakas are essentially the Palicoes of Monster Hunter's earlier days, found in titles like Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate where they join hunters as helpful companions. Cha-Cha and Kayamba are great examples of Shakalakas, who appear in Monster Hunter Tri and Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate. Shakalakas, and Gajalakas, for that matter, are more humanoid in their appearance than Felynes and Melynxes, and are generally characterized by their tribal wardrobe. Shakalaka companions can also wear special masks that provide healing and support to hunters, but any Shakalakas encountered in the wild are generally hostile.

Among the two types of Lynians in the Monster Hunter franchise, modern fans of the series are likely to be most familiar with Felynes.

Gajalakas, on the other hand, are generally far more aggressive Lynians than their Shakalaka cousins, known for their tribal culture and territorial nature. They are highly intelligent, strategic, and organized creatures who are often both a nuisance and a danger to both hunters and monsters. They are most prominent in Monster Hunter: World, where players can encounter them in regions like the Coral Highlands and Rotten Vale. All of this said, however, players can befriend Gajalakas through a Cultural Exchange quest, after which they can assist in distracting enemies, dealing damage, and offering support to their new hunter allies.

From the helpful Palicoes to the mischievous Melynxes, and the tribal Shakalakas to the cunning Gajalakas, each type of Lynian in Monster Hunter offers unique interactions that add charm to the series' ever-evolving world. As the Monster Hunter franchise continues to grow, the Lynians will likely remain one of its most enduring elements, especially when it comes to Palicoes.

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