In *Monster Hunter Wilds*, achieving the perfect balance between offense and defense is a challenge, but the Sword and Shield offers unparalleled versatility. This weapon is a go-to choice for both beginners and seasoned hunters, thanks to its mobility, damage potential, and defensive capabilities. Here's a comprehensive guide on maximizing the effectiveness of your Sword and Shield in *Monster Hunter Wilds*.
Sword and Shield in Monster Hunter Wilds
The Sword and Shield stands out for its ability to swiftly transition between attacking and defending, making it an excellent choice for hunters of all skill levels. Its versatility allows you to engage enemies effectively while maintaining the agility to evade or block incoming attacks.
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 | Use the analog stick with Circle/B to perform a Shield Attack that inflicts stun damage. Press Circle/B for 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 trigger 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 deal multiple instances of damage. The attack's power increases when used after certain moves. |
| Forward on analog stick + Circle/B | Shield Attack | Use the shield to bash into enemies, dealing stun damage, especially 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 inflict 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 you to jump high. While airborne, you can 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. Press Triangle/Y after a Perfect Guard to execute a quick and powerful Counter Slash. |
| R2/RT + Triangle/Y | Sliding Swipe | An attack that quickly closes 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 wounds or weak points, press Triangle/Y for a Falling Slash, or Circle/B for an Upswing Bash. |
Combos
For players aiming to maximize damage while staying agile, mastering these key combos is essential.
Lateral Slash Combo
The Lateral Slash combo sets the stage for increased damage when integrated with Spinning Reaper and Charged Chop attacks. Start with 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, powerful hits without locking you into prolonged animations.
Shield Bash Combo
To knock down your target, utilize the Shield Attack combo. Begin by pointing your analog stick forward and pressing Circle/B, then execute two more Circle/B inputs, and conclude with a Guard Slash (R2/RT + Circle/B). This combo is most effective when targeting a monster's head, capable of knocking down most monsters after a few repetitions.
Perfect Rush Combo
The Perfect Rush combo is arguably the most potent for the Sword and Shield. Start with any attack, then initiate Backstep (Push back analog stick + Circle/B), followed by Leaping Slash (Triangle/Y), into Perfect Rush (Triangle/Y), a Scaling Slash (Triangle/Y), and finish with Falling Bash (Circle/B). Timing is crucial, as executing each move when the hunter flashes red amplifies the damage dealt.
Sword and Shield Tips
Leverage the Sword and Shield's versatility by combining offensive and defensive maneuvers with quick movements.
Vary Your Attacks
To expedite defeating your target, employ a mix of fast sword attacks to build up elemental damage and shield attacks to inflict stun damage, toppling the enemy when the opportunity arises.
Dodging and Guarding
In moments where defense is paramount, utilize Guarding and Backstep effectively. Mastering Perfect Guards with precise timing can negate damage, while Power Clashes offer another chance to push back monsters. Backstep not only helps you evade but also sets up immediate counterattacks. Practice your spacing and timing to make monsters regret their attacks.
Focus Strikes
As you inflict more wounds on monsters, exploit these with Focus Strikes. Unlike other weapons, the Sword and Shield allows for two follow-up attacks: Falling Slash for multiple hits, or Upswing Bash, which can chain 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 without sheathing your weapon. This feature enables quick healing or support for allies, maintaining constant pressure on your targets.
That’s a wrap on the essential strategies for wielding the Sword and Shield in *Monster Hunter Wilds*. For more tips and tricks, be sure to check out The Escapist.
Monster Hunter Wilds is now available on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.
