Achieving balance in *Monster Hunter Wilds* can be a challenge, given the trade-offs associated with armor and Talismans. Yet, when it comes to combat, the Sword and Shield stands out as a versatile tool that offers a blend of offense and defense. Here’s a comprehensive guide on maximizing the potential of your Sword and Shield in *Monster Hunter Wilds*.
The Sword and Shield is an excellent choice for both novice and veteran hunters, offering a perfect balance of mobility, damage output, and defensive capabilities. This weapon allows you to swiftly navigate the battlefield, engage in combat, and protect yourself from monster attacks.
| Command | Move | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Triangle/Y | Standard Attack | A basic sword attack that can be chained into a 4-hit combo. Use the analog stick mid-combo to adjust your positioning. |
| Circle/B | Special Attack | Combine the analog stick with Circle/B to execute a Shield Attack that inflicts stun damage. Press Circle/B alone to perform a powerful Lateral Slash. |
| Triangle/Y + Circle/B | Advancing Slash | An upward slash performed while moving forward. Executing this move while sliding downhill or towards a ledge enables a terrain-specific attack. |
| Triangle/Y + Circle/B (During Combo) | Roundslash | A wide-area slash that allows quick directional changes. Chain it from certain attacks to unleash the potent Spinning Reaper. |
| Holding down Triangle/Y + Circle/B (During Combo) | Charged Chop | A powerful leaping attack that can deal multiple hits when striking a monster’s soft spot. The attack’s power increases when used after specific moves. |
| Forward on analog stick + Circle/B | Shield Attack | Use the shield to bash into enemies and deal stun damage, especially effective when targeting the enemy's head. |
| Push back analog stick + Circle/B (During Combo) | Backstep | Backstep can be used during combos to dodge monster attacks. Press Triangle/Y during a Backstep to initiate the multi-hit Perfect Rush, which can inflict elemental damage and ailments. Press Triangle/Y when the sword flashes to boost damage. |
| Circle/B During Backstep | Charged Slash | Executing a Charged Slash post-Backstep allows for a high jump. While airborne, follow up with aerial attacks like Jumping Slash (Triangle/Y) or Falling Bash (Circle/B). |
| Hold down R2/RT | Guard | Guard against attacks using your shield. A well-timed Guard results in a Perfect Guard. Follow up with Triangle/Y for a quick, powerful Counter Slash. |
| R2/RT + Triangle/Y | Sliding Swipe | An easily executed attack that helps close the distance to your target swiftly. |
| R2/RT + Square/X | Use Item | Use certain items while your weapon remains unsheathed. |
| L2/LT + R1/RB | Focus Strike: Vital Stab | A stabbing attack effective against wounds. After hitting a wound or weak point, press Triangle/Y for a Falling Slash or Circle/B for an Upswing Bash. |
Image Source: Capcom via The Escapist
For players aiming to maximize damage while staying agile, mastering these key combos is essential.
Start with a Lateral Slash (Circle/B), followed by a Return Stroke (Circle/B), then a Spinning Rising Slash (Circle/B). Transition into a Spinning Reaper (Triangle/Y + Circle/B) and finish with a Charged Chop (Hold Triangle/Y + Circle/B). This combo delivers significant damage without locking you into a long animation.
To knock down your target, initiate the Shield Attack combo by moving the analog stick forward and pressing Circle/B. Follow with two more Circle/B inputs, and conclude with a Guard Slash (R2/RT + Circle/B). This is particularly effective when targeting a monster's head, often resulting in a knockdown after a few repetitions.
The most potent combo for the Sword and Shield, the Perfect Rush, should be your primary offensive strategy. Begin with any attack, then execute a Backstep (Push back analog stick + Circle/B), followed by a Leaping Slash (Triangle/Y) into Perfect Rush (Triangle/Y), a Scaling Slash (Triangle/Y), and finally a Falling Bash (Circle/B). Timing is crucial; watch for the hunter to flash red before each move to maximize damage.
Related: How to Capture Monsters in Monster Hunter Wild
Image Source: Capcom via The Escapist
Leverage the Sword and Shield's versatility with these tips to enhance your combat effectiveness.
To expedite defeating a monster, alternate between fast sword attacks to build elemental damage and shield attacks to inflict stun damage. This strategy can quickly topple your target.
In defensive situations, utilize Guarding and Backstep. Mastering Perfect Guards can negate incoming damage, while Power Clashes can push back monsters. Backstep not only evades attacks but also sets up counterattacks. Practice timing and spacing to turn the tide of battle.
As you inflict more wounds on monsters, employ Focus Strikes to capitalize on these vulnerabilities. With the Sword and Shield, you can follow up with either a Falling Slash for multiple hits or an Upswing Bash, which can be chained into a Falling Bash to increase stun damage.
A unique advantage for Sword and Shield users in Monster Hunter Wilds is the ability to use items without sheathing your weapon. This feature allows for quick healing or supporting allies, maintaining pressure on the monster throughout the fight.
That’s all the essential information on using the Sword and Shield in Monster Hunter Wilds. For more tips and guides, be sure to check out The Escapist.
Monster Hunter Wilds is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.
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