In the dynamic world of *Monster Hunter Wilds*, raw power isn't the only path to victory. Speed and strategic positioning can be just as crucial, especially when wielding the versatile Dual Blades. These weapons are perfect for those who thrive on agility and rapid strikes, allowing you to outmaneuver even the most formidable monsters. Here's how to maximize your effectiveness with Dual Blades in *Monster Hunter Wilds*.
Dual Blades in Monster Hunter Wilds
The Dual Blades are renowned for their speed and ability to deliver multiple hits in quick succession. Mastering both their standard and specialized modes is key to dominating the battlefield.
All Moves
| Command | Move | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Triangle/Y | Double Slash/Circle Slash | Initiate your combo with a Double Slash by pressing Triangle/Y, then follow up with another Triangle/Y for a Circle Slash. |
| Circle/B | Lunging Strike/Roundslash | Advance with a slashing attack in the direction of the analog stick. Press Circle/B again for a Roundslash. |
| R2/RT | Demon Mode | Activate Demon Mode to enhance your attack, movement speed, and evasion, while gaining immunity to knockbacks. |
| Triangle/Y + Circle/B (In Demon Mode) | Blade Dance I, II, III | Chain these powerful attacks in Demon Mode, consuming the Demon Gauge as you go. |
| Triangle/Y + Circle/B (In Archdemon Mode) | Demon Flurry I, II | Unleash a series of attacks in Archdemon Mode, consuming the Demon Gauge. Control the direction with the analog stick. |
| Cross/A (During Demon/Archdemon Mode) | Demon Dodge | Execute a faster dodge in Demon or Archdemon Mode. A Perfect Evade allows attacking while dodging and grants a short-term buff. Demon Dodge does not consume the Demon Gauge in Demon Mode. |
| L2/LT + R1/RB | Focus Strike: Turning Tide | Perform a slashing attack effective against wounds. Hitting a monster's wound triggers a Midair Spinning Blade Dance, capable of destroying multiple wounds across the monster's length. |
Demon Mode/Demon Gauge and Archdemon Mode
The Dual Blades feature a unique Demon Gauge mechanic. Enter Demon Mode to boost your attack, movement speed, and evasion, and gain knockback immunity. However, this mode consumes stamina continuously and ends when stamina depletes or is manually canceled. By landing attacks in Demon Mode, you fill the Demon Gauge, which, when full, transitions you into Archdemon Mode. In Archdemon Mode, the gauge depletes over time and with certain attacks, enabling you to execute powerful, gauge-consuming attacks. Both modes can be used interchangeably, and the Demon Gauge stops decreasing when you mount a monster, giving you strategic flexibility.
Demon Dodge
After a successful Perfect Evade, enter an empowered state with Demon Dodge, which increases regular and elemental damage and allows you to attack while dodging. This grants a 12-second damage buff, and subsequent dodges cause damage as you spin forward.
Combos
Dual Blades combos revolve around Demon and Archdemon Modes, allowing you to chain attacks for maximum damage.
Basic Combo
Chain three Triangle/Y attacks for a reliable combo: Double Slash, Double Slash Return Stroke, and Circle Slash. Alternatively, use the Circle/B Demon Flurry Rush – Spinning Slash – Double Roundslash combo to quickly fill your Demon Gauge.
Demon Mode Basic Combo
In Demon Mode, your basic combo becomes more potent and faster: Demon Fangs, Twofold Demon Slash, Sixfold Demon Slash, and finish with Triangle/Y + Circle/B for Demon Flurry I.
Archdemon Mode Blade Dance Combo
Once your Demon Gauge is full, enter Archdemon Mode for swift, concentrated damage. Start with Blade Dance (Triangle/Y + Circle/B) in Demon Mode, then press R2/RT four times for Demon Flurry I into Blade Dance II, and conclude with Demon Flurry II and Blade Dance III. This seamless transition between modes delivers immense damage quickly.
Dual Blade Tips
Mastering the Dual Blades involves fluidly switching between modes to maximize damage potential.
Always Follow Up
Start with the basic Demon Flurry Rush combo (Circle/B + Circle/B + Circle/B), then transition into a full Demon or Archdemon Mode combo with three sets of Triangle/Y + Circle/B. This fills your Demon Gauge and converts it into rapid damage, a feat unmatched by weapons like the Great Sword.
Keep Your Stamina Up
Demon Mode relies on your stamina, so maintaining reserves is crucial. While you can exit the mode to recover, using Focus Strike on wounds can halt stamina drain during the attack and still fill the Demon Gauge, preparing you for more aggressive assaults.
Dodging in Between Attacks
Without a reliable defense, dodging is your best bet. The Dual Blades offer superior mobility, allowing you to dodge out of most attacks and combos. Avoid overcommitting and wait for the right moment to strike, leveraging the quick animations to your advantage.
Ensure Sharpness
The relentless attacks of the Dual Blades can quickly dull your weapons. Utilize the Speed Sharpening skill in your build to minimize downtime and swiftly return to the fray.
Mastering the Dual Blades in *Monster Hunter Wilds* requires a blend of speed, strategy, and stamina management. For more tips and guides, be sure to check out The Escapist.
*Monster Hunter Wilds is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.*
