Finding balance in *Monster Hunter Wilds* can be challenging, with every piece of gear from armor to Talismans involving trade-offs. However, when it comes to combat, the Sword and Shield offers a versatile solution that balances offense and defense seamlessly. Here’s how to maximize the potential of your Sword and Shield in *Monster Hunter Wilds*.
Sword and Shield in Monster Hunter Wilds
The Sword and Shield is the go-to weapon for hunters, whether you're just starting out or a seasoned pro. Its blend of mobility, damage output, and the ability to guard makes it an excellent choice for any situation you might find yourself in.
All Moves
| Command | Move | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Triangle/Y | Standard Attack | A basic sword attack that can be chained for a 4-hit combo. Use the analog stick mid-combo to adjust your positioning. |
| Circle/B | Special Attack | Use the analog stick with Circle/B for a Shield Attack that deals stun damage. Press Circle/B for a powerful Lateral Slash. |
| Triangle/Y + Circle/B | Advancing Slash | An upward slash performed while advancing forward. Using it while sliding downhill or towards a ledge allows a terrain-specific attack. |
| Triangle/Y + Circle/B (During Combo) | Roundslash | An attack that slashes a wide area, allowing quick direction changes. Chaining it from certain attacks results in the powerful Spinning Reaper. |
| Holding down Triangle/Y + Circle/B (During Combo) | Charged Chop | A powerful leaping attack. Hitting a monster's soft spot allows multiple damage instances. The power increases if used after certain attacks. |
| Forward on analog stick + Circle/B | Shield Attack | Use the shield to bash into enemies, dealing stun damage when targeting the head. |
| Push back analog stick + Circle/B (During Combo) | Backstep | Backstep during combos to avoid monster attacks. Press Triangle/Y during a Backstep for Perfect Rush, a multi-hit attack that easily inflicts elemental damage and ailments. Press Triangle/Y when the sword flashes to boost damage. |
| Circle/B During Backstep | Charged Slash | Landing a Charged Slash after a Backstep lets you jump high. While airborne, follow up with different aerial attacks like Jumping Slash (Triangle/Y) or Falling Bash (Circle/B). |
| Hold down R2/RT | Guard | Guard against attacks with your shield. A well-timed guard results in a Perfect Guard. Press Triangle/Y after a Perfect Guard for a quick, powerful Counter Slash. |
| R2/RT + Triangle/Y | Sliding Swipe | An easy-to-perform attack that closes the distance to your target quickly. |
| R2/RT + Square/X | Use Item | You can use certain items while your weapon is unsheathed. |
| L2/LT + R1/RB | Focus Strike: Vital Stab | A stabbing attack effective against wounds. After hitting wounds or a weak point, press Triangle/Y for a Falling Slash, or Circle/B for an Upswing Bash. |
Combos
For players aiming to deal significant damage while staying agile, mastering these key combos is essential.
Lateral Slash Combo
Start with a Lateral Slash (Circle/B), followed by Return Stroke (Circle/B), Spinning Rising Slash (Circle/B), then transition into Spinning Reaper (Triangle/Y + Circle/B), and finish with Charged Chop (Hold Triangle/Y + Circle/B). This combo delivers quick and potent damage without leaving you vulnerable for long.
Shield Bash Combo
To knock down your target, initiate the Shield Attack combo by moving the analog stick forward and pressing Circle/B, followed by two more sets of Circle/B, and conclude with a Guard Slash (R2/RT + Circle/B). This is particularly effective when targeting a monster's head, often knocking them down after a few repetitions.
Perfect Rush Combo
The most potent combo for the Sword and Shield, the Perfect Rush combo should be your go-to. Begin with any attack, then Backstep (Push back analog stick + Circle/B), Leaping Slash (Triangle/Y), Perfect Rush (Triangle/Y), Scaling Slash (Triangle/Y), and finish with Falling Bash (Circle/B). Timing is crucial; watch for the red flash on your hunter for increased damage during Backstep, Leaping Slash, and Perfect Rush.
Sword and Shield Tips
Leverage the Sword and Shield's quick movement and dual functionality with these tips for even greater effectiveness.
Vary Your Attacks
To bring down the monster swiftly, alternate between fast sword attacks to build elemental damage and shield attacks to deal stun damage, potentially toppling the enemy.
Dodging and Guarding
When defense is key, use Guarding and Backstep. Mastering Perfect Guards with precise timing can negate damage, while Power Clashes offer a chance to knock the monster back. Backstep not only evades harm but sets up a counterattack, so practice your spacing and timing.
Focus Strikes
As you inflict more wounds, utilize Focus Strike for maximum effect. The Sword and Shield allows for two follow-up attacks: Falling Slash for additional hits or Upswing Bash, which can be chained into Falling Bash to increase stun damage.
Item Usage
A unique advantage for Sword and Shield users in *Monster Hunter Wilds* is the ability to use items with the weapon unsheathed. This can be crucial for quick recovery or supporting allies, keeping the pressure on the monster.
These tips and strategies will help you master the Sword and Shield in *Monster Hunter Wilds*. For more guidance, be sure to visit The Escapist.
*Monster Hunter Wilds is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.*
