Regarding the Great Sword, it controls differently from the Switch-Axe's version, and it can block. It's a playstyle thing.

Regarding the Royal L, aim for the mane as much as possible or, alternatively, the tail. With a switch-axe, stay on its flank (near the tail or face)as much as possible, but keep an eye on its movements: when it shakes, it's about to roll on you, so roll out of the way. Underwater, play conservatively, and don't try to combo it unless it's panting after an attack: it's just too quick for your weapon's attacks.

Sweet, is the tail and the mane the only harvestable areas? Or should i try to break other parts as well?

You can "break" its face as well, and get more rewards after a mission.

One thing you may already know: when you cut off the tail, wait until the Ludroth is dead/in another zone before harvesting. All monsters' tails can be harvested until one minute after the monster is dead.

I only found that out recently. >_>

I've seen monsters drool, trapped them and got nothing. I can't say I remember any pain calls though, maybe I'll go look at some vids.

I don't acknowledge the existence of tiers because it's "fun," I do because their existence is a fact. Figuring out the order is like a giant, complicated math problem - although it takes a long time to figure out, there's only one right answer in the end. Of course, since there's no easy way of solving it, the list can take a very long time before it's as accurate as it can get (and even then the order may not be perfect).

It's the same as tiers in fighting games.

It is unfortunate when people try to use these lists to tell you what weapon or character you should be using (or some other nonsense) though, especially when the list they're using isn't even for the right purpose (single player vs team play). People that actually know anything about tier lists wouldn't be giving you shit about lance superiority.

ratholos is being a pain. It has nothing to do with him hurting me, he flies too much and I can kill him in the time limit.

Also, I have been trying to get shell shockers, I know you get them by break Lags back... But, I cant seem to break his back, I always break his Chest and Head, and cut off his tail. What weapon is best for this? I am using Assault Axe +

The weirdest thing happened to me today. I was Rathalos hunting offline, building my Rathalos armor set. After 10 or so kills, I have the full set but the hands (damn plates, damn statistics!). Disappointed, I go for another 3-4 kills and still no Plate.

Ready to call it quits fot the day, I save my game and almost hit the power button. Then, it hits me! I see cha-cha in my room, I talk to him to see what kind of crap items he'd have picked up. Guess what! 1 Rathalos Plate @_@

I finally have my full set now, added +5 attack for the whopping Attack Up (L) skill; coupled with 10% affinity and a SnS, I am a very happy MH player

Off to kill Barrioth now, wish me luck, people!

how do you get rank 18 online?

The bombs and traps didn't work for you with Rathalos, eh?

Anyhow, for Lagiciarus I usually just use the lance to crack his back. It's easiest when you're underwater, obviously. If he's moving too much, tire him out then use a stun trap (underwater). If you're on land, use a pitfall trap: that way you can finally reach his back.

Be warned though: the back can take a lot of punishment.

Lagiacrus urgent hunt quest. Assuming you've cleared most of ** quests.

thx, just got rank 18