Monster Hunter Now's Velkhana event guarantees driftstones

Niantic and Capcom have detailed the Upgrade Rush Quest & Riftcharged Monster event for Monster Hunter Now, set to run from August 10 to August 16, 2026, on iOS and Android. The week gives players a push to forge and upgrade high-tier gear ahead of Riftcharged Diablos's arrival in Base Defense, with boosted material drops, guaranteed driftstones, and heavier spawns of specific monsters.

Velkhana leads Elder Dragon interceptions

Velkhana will be the only monster appearing at Elder Dragon interception points for the duration of the event. Hunters who take it down can craft ice-element weapons and armor with an ice boost, covering one of Riftcharged Diablos's elemental weaknesses. On the field, spawn rates rise for Bishaten, Lagombi, Legiana, Barioth, Stygian Zinogre, Viper Tobi-Kadachi, and Tigrex, with Bishaten, Lagombi, Legiana, and Barioth also appearing in Riftborne form.

Guaranteed driftstone drops and zenny rewards

Every large monster slain during the event drops a Crimson, Azure, Amber, Cyan, Pale, or Black Driftstone, a guaranteed pull that makes it easier to chase specific armor skills through driftsmelting. Standard hunts, hunt-a-thons, and Elder Dragon Interceptions can also yield Shining, Gleaming, and Dazzling Eggs, which convert straight to zenny and help cover the cost of high-level upgrades.

Quests are split by monster strength on the field. Hunters facing 8-star or higher monsters unlock a challenge-tier upgrade rush quest with riftborne rewards such as Bishaten Riftfur and Lagombi Riftpelt, while hunters below that threshold get an easier quest line. Both groups earn the same base materials and zenny regardless of tier.

Premium Quests tied to the event go on sale for the full week and stay active through September 10, 2026, with rewards that include further Bishaten, Lagombi, Viper Tobi-Kadachi, and Tigrex materials as well as Wyvern Gem Shards. Niantic and Capcom note that quest lineups and rewards could still change before launch.

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