How to use Hunting Horn in Monster Hunter Wilds: All Moves and Combos

In the vibrant world of *Monster Hunter Wilds*, one of the most distinctive experiences is wielding the Hunting Horn. While it might initially strike you as peculiar, enthusiasts of this weapon are quick to celebrate its formidable power. Here’s your guide to maximizing the potential of the Hunting Horn in *Monster Hunter Wilds*.

Hunting Horn in Monster Hunter Wilds

The Hunting Horn is a unique blunt weapon that not only delivers powerful strikes but also generates a variety of buffs for you and your allies. Mastering the art of playing melodies at the right moments can significantly enhance your performance in battles.

All Moves

Command	Move	Description
Triangle/Y	Left Swing	A basic attack that produces Note 1 on the musical staff. Use it with a direction to perform a Forward Smash.
Circle/B	Right Swing	A basic attack that produces Note 2 on the musical staff.
Analog Direction + Circle/B	Flourish	An attack that produces Note 2 on the musical staff. Pressing Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B during the attack will allow you to produce another note.
Triangle/Y + Circle/B	Backwards Strike	A basic attack that produces Note 3 on the musical staff. It allows hunters to easily hit a target behind them and moves hunters backward as they attack.
Analog Direction + Triangle/Y + Circle/B	Overhead Smash	An attack that produces Note 3 on the musical staff. Pressing Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B during the attack will allow you to produce another note.
Backwards Analog Direction + Triangle/Y or Circle/B or Triangle/Y + Circle/B during combo	Hilt Stab	A quick attack that produces a note on the musical staff. The attack can be used after a number of different attacks, with Triangle/Y, Circle/B, and Triangle/Y + Circle/B producing their own note.
R2/RT	Perform	An attack that activates Melody Effect. Stocked melodies will be performed in order, but a specific melody can be selected using R2/RT + Triangle/Y or Circle/B. While performing multiple melodies, press R2/RT for a powerful Performance Beat. Then play an Encore (Triangle/Y + Circle/B) to boost and extend Melody Effects. The power of a Performance Beat and Encore will increase if you time them with the activation of Melody Effects.
R2/RT + Cross/A	Echo Bubble	A special attack that produces an Echo Bubble. The type of Echo Bubble created is determined by the Hunting Horn equipped. When creating an Echo Bubble, players can produce up to three notes with either Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B.
R2/RT + Triangle/Y + Circle/B with Melody Stocked	Special Performance	Unlike normal performances, Special Performances will play the unique Melody Effect associated with the Hunting Horn equipped. Once stocked, this melody will not be overwritten by new melodies.
L2/LT + R1/RB	Focus Strike: Reverb	A Performance attack effective against wounds. Players can produce up to five notes with either Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B while performing. Playing the notes at the right time will deal additional damage.

Combos

Image Source: Capcom via The Escapist

Beyond its musical prowess, the Hunting Horn packs a punch as a blunt weapon. Here are some essential combos to incorporate into your gameplay:

Overhead Smash Combo

This staple combo is a must-have in your arsenal. Simply move forward with the analog stick and press Triangle/Y + Circle/B twice to execute the Overhead Smash and its follow-up attack. Consistent use of this combo can potentially stun your target, so aim accurately and strike forcefully.

Performance Combo

Once you've stacked your desired melodies, it's time to perform. This combo not only activates your buffs but also enhances your damage output. Move forward with the analog stick, press R2/RT to initiate Perform, and then follow up with Triangle/Y + Circle/B for an Encore to amplify and prolong your Melody Effects.

Echo Bubble Combo

Leverage the Hunting Horn's unique Echo Bubble mechanic, especially effective against incapacitated foes. Begin with the Echo Bubble (Cross/A + R2/RT), then sequence Triangle/Y, Circle/B, Circle/B for the Echo Wave (Blunt), followed by R2/RT for Perform, and conclude with an Encore using Triangle/Y + Circle/B.

Related: How to Capture Monsters in Monster Hunter Wild

Hunting Horn Tips

Image Source: Capcom via The Escapist

To become proficient with the Hunting Horn, you must master the timing of your buffs and damage output, particularly when collaborating with teammates.

All About the Notes

Understanding the intricacies of note composition is crucial. Each Hunting Horn has unique songs requiring specific note combinations. Keep an eye on the top right corner of your screen to see which commands correspond to the necessary notes. Moves like Flourish and Overhead Smash allow you to add additional notes during the attack, facilitating the creation of your desired melodies. Even while mounted on your Seikret, you can play the required notes to form songs.

Buff City

Once familiar with note combinations, focus on stacking them to create songs. You can play multiple songs consecutively to benefit from various buffs. Ensure these buffs align with your current situation, as performing them takes time.

Echo Chamber

Utilize Echo Bubbles frequently to create an advantageous battlefield. They not only provide three additional note inputs but also amplify your subsequent attacks. The increased Evasion and Movement Speed within the Echo Bubble enhance your survivability, making it a crucial tactic, especially in High Rank hunts.

Self-Improvement is Key

The Self-Improvement skill, present in all Hunting Horns, should be boosted to at least level 2. This increases your attack power by 20%, allowing you to deal more damage and subdue monsters more efficiently.

Always be Prepared With Special Performances

Keep a Special Performance ready at all times. For instance, the Offset Melody remains stocked without being overwritten, allowing you to unleash it at the perfect moment. When a monster attacks, input the Special Performance command (R2/RT + Triangle/Y + Circle/B) and hold that stance, releasing it as the monster strikes to knock it down.

That’s all you need to know about mastering the Hunting Horn in Monster Hunter Wilds. For more tips and strategies, be sure to visit The Escapist.

Monster Hunter Wilds is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.