Monster Rancher EVO is designed to include More role-playing elements, deeper gameplay, and a greater focus on the character driven-story than previous Monster Rancher games. Playing as Julio, a young circus performer, rec-room ranchers will breed and train monsters while also managing a circus as it travels through seven towns, each with their own story. The town missions are obtained through a guild and stores that sell general items, gadgets, tricks, and Saucer Stones. Missions can include capturing a monster, obtaining a rare item, or putting on a show to cheer up the townsfolk. Anima points increase a monster's abilities, and can also increase the number of union attacks the animals can perform. Players may use saved creations and go head-to-head in "VS." mode, or create new monsters for the battle.