Rathian is most vulnerable to the Dragon element, making it the most effective choice for hunters. However, if Dragon-element weapons are not readily available, particularly in the earlier stages of the game, Thunder is a strong alternative that will also inflict significant damage.
Elemental Vulnerabilities
Understanding Rathian's elemental weaknesses is crucial for a successful hunt. Targeting its vulnerabilities can drastically reduce combat time and conserve resources.
Primary Weakness: Dragon
- Dragon: Rathian is exceptionally susceptible to the Dragon element. Utilizing Dragon-element weapons or attacks will yield the highest damage output against this flying wyvern.
Secondary Weakness: Thunder
- Thunder: While Dragon is its ultimate weakness, Thunder is also highly effective. For hunters who might not yet have access to powerful Dragon-element weapons early in their journey, Thunder-based armaments serve as an excellent and very viable option to inflict substantial damage.
Elements to Avoid
It is equally important to know which elements are ineffective or even detrimental when facing Rathian.
- Ice and Water: Weapons imbued with Ice or Water elements are not recommended against Rathian. They will offer minimal damage returns and are generally inefficient choices.
- Fire: Under no circumstances should you use Fire-element weapons against Rathian. As a fire-breathing monster, it is naturally highly resistant, if not immune, to fire, rendering such attacks completely ineffective.
Rathian Elemental Weakness Summary Table
For a quick reference, here's a summary of Rathian's elemental vulnerabilities and resistances:
| Element | Effectiveness |
|---|---|
| Dragon | Very Weak |
| Thunder | Very Good Damage |
| Ice | Not Recommended |
| Water | Not Recommended |
| Fire | Absolutely Never Use |
