Finding the right balance in *Monster Hunter Wilds* can be challenging, especially when every piece of gear, from armor to Talismans, involves tradeoffs. Yet, when it comes to combat, the Sword and Shield stands out for its versatility, offering a perfect blend of offense and defense. Here’s how you can maximize your effectiveness with the Sword and Shield in *Monster Hunter Wilds*.
The Sword and Shield is an excellent choice for both newcomers and seasoned hunters. Its agility, damage output, and the ability to guard make it a versatile weapon suitable for any situation. Whether you're looking to dive into the fray or protect yourself from incoming attacks, the Sword and Shield has got you covered.
| 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 | Use the analog stick with Circle/B to perform a Shield Attack that deals stun damage. Press Circle/B to execute a powerful Lateral Slash. |
| Triangle/Y + Circle/B | Advancing Slash | An upward slash performed while advancing forward. Using Advancing Slash while sliding downhill or towards a ledge will allow a terrain-specific attack. |
| Triangle/Y + Circle/B (During Combo) | Roundslash | An attack that slashes a wide area, allowing quick directional changes. Chaining it from certain attacks leads to the powerful Spinning Reaper. |
| Holding down Triangle/Y + Circle/B (During Combo) | Charged Chop | A powerful leaping attack. Hitting a monster's soft spot can result in multiple damage instances. The attack's power increases if used after certain attacks. |
| Forward on analog stick + Circle/B | Shield Attack | Use the shield to bash into enemies and deal stun damage when targeting the enemy's head. |
| Push back analog stick + Circle/B (During Combo) | Backstep | Backstep can be used during combos to avoid monster attacks. Press Triangle/Y during a Backstep to perform Perfect Rush, a multi-hit attack that can easily afflict elemental damage and ailments. Press Triangle/Y when the sword flashes to increase damage. |
| Circle/B During Backstep | Charged Slash | Landing a Charged Slash after a Backstep allows players to jump high in the air. While airborne, follow up with different aerial attacks such as Jumping Slash (Triangle/Y) or a Falling Bash (Circle/B). |
| Hold down R2/RT | Guard | Guard against attacks using your shield. Guarding at the right time will result in a Perfect Guard. Press Triangle/Y after a Perfect Guard to perform a quick and powerful Counter Slash. |
| R2/RT + Triangle/Y | Sliding Swipe | An attack that can be performed easily, allowing you to quickly close the distance between you and the target. |
| 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 the wounds or a weak point, press Triangle/Y to follow up with a Falling Slash, or Circle/B for an Upswing Bash. |
For players aiming to deal significant damage while maintaining mobility, mastering these key combos is essential.
Start with Lateral Slash (Circle/B), follow with Return Stroke (Circle/B), then Spinning Rising Slash (Circle/B). Transition into Spinning Reaper (Triangle/Y + Circle/B) and finish with Charged Chop (Hold Triangle/Y + Circle/B). This combo delivers quick, powerful strikes without locking you in for long.
To knock down your target, initiate with a Shield Attack (Forward on analog stick + Circle/B), followed by two more Circle/B inputs, and conclude with a Guard Slash (R2/RT + Circle/B). This sequence is most effective when targeting a monster's head and can knock down most foes after a few repetitions.
The most potent combo for the Sword and Shield, the Perfect Rush 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 end with Falling Bash (Circle/B). Timing is crucial; watch for the hunter to flash red for increased damage.
Related: How to Capture Monsters in Monster Hunter Wild
Leveraging the Sword and Shield's unique blend of agility and defense, here are some tips to enhance your combat effectiveness.
To expedite the takedown of your target, mix up your attacks. Fast sword strikes can build elemental damage, while a series of shield bashes can stun the enemy, providing an opportunity to strike decisively.
When defense is paramount, employ Guarding and Backstep. Mastering Perfect Guards with precise timing can negate damage, and Power Clashes can push back monsters. Backstep not only evades attacks but also sets up counterattacks. Practice your timing and spacing to turn the tables on your foes.
As you inflict more wounds on monsters, utilize Focus Strikes to capitalize on their vulnerabilities. Unlike other weapons, 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 for increased 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 support, keeping you in the fight longer and maintaining pressure on your targets.
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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