In the expansive world of Monster Hunter Wilds, hunters are often tasked with capturing elusive creatures known as endemic life. One such creature is the Sandstar, a luminescent, mouse-like animal that has intrigued many due to its rarity and the challenge it presents to hunters. Capturing a Sandstar is not only a testament to a hunter’s skill but also a requirement for completing “Samin’s Special Research Report,” a side quest that becomes available in the High Rank section after the game’s main storyline concludes.
This guide provides a comprehensive walkthrough on where to find Sandstars in Monster Hunter Wilds, how to prepare for the hunt, and the steps to successfully capture this elusive creature.
Understanding the Sandstar
Sandstars are nocturnal creatures native to the Windward Plains. They are characterized by their glowing blue appearance, which makes them stand out against the desert landscape at night. Their luminescence has led locals to liken them to shooting stars, hence the name “Sandstar.” These creatures are extremely skittish and possess heightened hearing, allowing them to detect and flee from potential threats with remarkable speed.
Prerequisites for the Hunt
Before embarking on the quest to capture a Sandstar, ensure you have met the following conditions:
- Completion of Previous Quests: “Samin’s Special Research Report” is the final installment in a series of quests involving Samin and Dareel. Hunters must have completed all prior quests in this series to unlock the Sandstar mission.
- Game Progression: This quest becomes available after the game’s credits, during the High Rank section. Ensure you have progressed sufficiently in the main storyline to access High Rank quests.
Optimal Conditions for Finding Sandstars
Sandstars have specific spawning conditions that hunters must be aware of:
- Time of Day: Sandstars are nocturnal and only appear at night.
- Season: They spawn during the season of Plenty, characterized by clear skies and a rejuvenated environment.
To check the current time and season, open your map; the information is displayed in the top-left corner. If the conditions aren’t ideal, you can rest at a camp to advance time until nighttime during Plenty.
Prime Locations for Sandstar Sightings
Sandstars are predominantly found in the Windward Plains, specifically between Areas 11 and 16. They are commonly spotted near the sand dunes surrounding Area 13: Oasis. Focusing your search along the northern edge of these dunes increases the likelihood of an encounter.
Given their low spawn rate, it may take multiple nights of searching to locate a Sandstar. If you don’t spot one immediately, consider leaving the area and returning to reset potential spawns.
Essential Tools: Acquiring Screamer Pods
To successfully capture a Sandstar, you’ll need Screamer Pods, which are used to stun the creature, making it easier to capture. Screamer Pods can be obtained by targeting Baunos, small flying monsters found in the Windward Plains. Using your Hook Slinger on a Baunos yields an Echo Feather, which automatically converts into a Screamer Pod.
It’s advisable to collect Screamer Pods during the day and retain them for your nighttime hunt. Baunos are often found in Area 4 and occasionally near Area 11, close to the Sandstar’s habitat.
Step-by-Step Guide to Capturing a Sandstar
1. Preparation
- Ensure you have a supply of Screamer Pods.
- Equip the Capture Net in your item bar or radial menu for quick access.
- Verify that it’s nighttime during the season of Plenty.
2. Locating the Sandstar
- Travel to Area 13: Oasis in the Windward Plains.
- Search along the northern edge of the surrounding dunes for a glowing blue creature.
- Use the Ghillie Mantle to approach stealthily, though Sandstars can detect hunters even with the mantle equipped.
3. Stunning the Sandstar
- Once spotted, maintain a safe distance to avoid startling it.
- Equip a Screamer Pod in your slinger.
- Aim near the Sandstar and fire the Screamer Pod to stun it.
4. Capturing the Sandstar
- Immediately switch to your Capture Net.
- Approach the stunned Sandstar and deploy the net to capture it.
Alternative Capture Methods
If you’re unable to acquire Screamer Pods, consider the following strategies:
- Chasing on Seikret: Mount your Seikret to keep pace with the fleeing Sandstar. Anticipate its movements and use the Capture Net when it changes direction or slows down.
- Environmental Hazards: Lead the Sandstar into an environmental hazard such as sand pits or predator zones to momentarily slow it down.
- Patience and Observation: Observe Sandstar behavior and anticipate where it may pause. Once it stops, move in carefully and deploy your Capture Net.
Conclusion
Capturing a Sandstar in Monster Hunter Wilds is a challenging yet rewarding experience. By following this guide and preparing adequately, you can increase your chances of successfully locating and capturing this elusive creature. Remember to hunt at night, during the season of Plenty, and make use of Screamer Pods for the best results.
FAQ
1. What time do Sandstars appear in Monster Hunter Wilds?
Sandstars only appear at night during the season of Plenty.
2. Where is the best place to find a Sandstar?
The best location to find a Sandstar is near Area 13: Oasis in the Windward Plains.
3. Do I need any special items to capture a Sandstar?
Yes, Screamer Pods are highly recommended to stun the Sandstar before capturing it with a Capture Net.
4. Can I catch a Sandstar without a Screamer Pod?
Yes, but it is much harder. You may need to chase it on a Seikret or use environmental hazards to slow it down.
5. What do I get for capturing a Sandstar?
Capturing a Sandstar completes Samin’s Special Research Report and unlocks the “I Caught a Shooting Star!” achievement.
