Finding the perfect balance in *Monster Hunter Wilds* can be a challenge, with every piece of armor and Talisman presenting its own set of tradeoffs. However, when it comes to combat, the Sword and Shield stands out as a versatile choice, offering a blend of offense and defense. Here's how you can maximize the potential of the Sword and Shield in *Monster Hunter Wilds*.
Sword and Shield in Monster Hunter Wilds
The Sword and Shield is your go-to weapon whether you're a beginner or a seasoned hunter. Its ability to quickly switch between attacking and defending, combined with its high mobility, makes it an excellent choice for any situation you might find yourself in during a hunt.
All Moves
| Command | Move | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Triangle/Y | Standard Attack | A basic sword attack that can be chained into a 4-hit combo. Use the analog stick during the combo to adjust your positioning. |
| Circle/B | Special Attack | Combine the analog stick with Circle/B for a Shield Attack that inflicts stun damage. Press Circle/B alone for a powerful Lateral Slash. |
| Triangle/Y + Circle/B | Advancing Slash | An upward slash that propels you forward. Using this move while sliding downhill or towards a ledge triggers a terrain-specific attack. |
| Triangle/Y + Circle/B (During Combo) | Roundslash | A wide-area slash that allows for quick directional changes. Chain it from specific attacks to unleash the potent Spinning Reaper. |
| Holding down Triangle/Y + Circle/B (During Combo) | Charged Chop | A powerful leaping attack that can hit multiple times if you strike a monster's soft spot. The attack's power increases when used after certain moves. |
| Forward on analog stick + Circle/B | Shield Attack | Bash enemies with your shield to deal stun damage, especially effective when targeting the enemy's head. |
| Push back analog stick + Circle/B (During Combo) | Backstep | Use Backstep during combos to evade monster attacks. Follow up with Triangle/Y during a Backstep for the multi-hit Perfect Rush, which inflicts elemental damage and ailments. Press Triangle/Y when the sword flashes to boost damage. |
| Circle/B During Backstep | Charged Slash | Executing a Charged Slash after a Backstep launches you into the air. From there, perform aerial attacks like the Jumping Slash (Triangle/Y) or Falling Bash (Circle/B). |
| Hold down R2/RT | Guard | Protect yourself with your shield. A well-timed Guard leads to a Perfect Guard. After a Perfect Guard, press Triangle/Y for a swift and powerful Counter Slash. |
| R2/RT + Triangle/Y | Sliding Swipe | An easy-to-execute attack that quickly closes the gap between you and your target. |
| R2/RT + Square/X | Use Item | Utilize certain items without sheathing your weapon. |
| L2/LT + R1/RB | Focus Strike: Vital Stab | A stabbing attack effective against wounds. After hitting a wound or weak point, follow up with Triangle/Y for a Falling Slash or Circle/B for an Upswing Bash. |
Combos
For players aiming to deal significant damage while maintaining mobility, mastering these key combos is essential.
Lateral Slash Combo
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 high damage without locking you into long animations.
Shield Bash Combo
To knock down your target, initiate a Shield Attack by pressing forward on the analog stick and Circle/B. Follow up with two more Circle/B inputs, then finish with a Guard Slash (R2/RT + Circle/B). This combo is most effective when targeting a monster's head, capable of knocking down most enemies after a few repetitions.
Perfect Rush Combo
The Perfect Rush combo is the most potent option for the Sword and Shield. Begin with any attack, then 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 conclude with a Falling Bash (Circle/B). Timing is crucial; watch for the red flash on your hunter to maximize damage.
Sword and Shield Tips
To use the Sword and Shield even more effectively, consider these strategies:
Vary Your Attacks
Alternate between fast sword attacks to build elemental damage and shield attacks to stun enemies. This variety can speed up the process of taking down your target.
Dodging and Guarding
In moments where defense is key, master the art of Guarding and Backstep. Perfect Guards can negate damage, while Power Clashes can push monsters back. Backstep helps you avoid attacks and sets up immediate counterattacks. Practice timing and spacing to turn the tide in your favor.
Focus Strikes
As you inflict more wounds on monsters, utilize the Focus Strike to capitalize on them. Unlike other weapons, the Sword and Shield allows for two follow-up options: a Falling Slash for additional hits or an Upswing Bash, which can lead into a 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 without sheathing your weapon. This feature allows for quick health recovery or support for allies, keeping you in the fight longer and applying continuous pressure on your target.
That's everything you need to know about effectively using the Sword and Shield in *Monster Hunter Wilds*. For more tips and strategies, be sure to check out The Escapist.
*Monster Hunter Wilds is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.*
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