The *Monster Hunter* series is renowned for its diverse weapon selection, and the Great Sword in *Monster Hunter Wilds* is a prime example of powerful, albeit slow, combat. This guide will equip you with the knowledge to master this behemoth of a blade.
The Great Sword’s defining trait is its devastating single-hit potential. One well-timed swing can inflict immense damage, but mastering its timing and techniques is crucial for success. Future upgrades will further enhance its power and elemental capabilities.
All Great Sword Moves
| Command | Move | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Triangle/Y | Overhead Slash | A quick overhead attack, chainable into charged attacks. |
| Holding Triangle/Y | Charge/Charged Slash | A powerful slashing attack; damage increases with charge time. |
| Holding Triangle/Y + Circle/B | Tackle | A rising slash that can interrupt monster attacks. A perfectly timed release knocks the monster down, allowing a follow-up Cross Slash (Triangle/Y). |
| Circle/B | Wide Slash | A wide-sweeping attack, chainable after a Tackle (Leaping Wide Slash) or Strong Charged Slash (Strong Wide Slash). |
| Triangle/Y + Circle/B | Rising Slash | Attacks high areas on monsters. |
| Holding Triangle/Y + Circle/B | Offset Rising Slash | A timed counter-attack that knocks down monsters on successful connection. Follow up with a Cross Slash (Triangle/Y). |
| R2/RT | Guard | Blocks attacks; direction adjustable in Focus Mode. |
| R2/RT + Triangle/Y | Kick | A kick performed while guarding. |
| L2/LT + R1/RB | Focus Slash/Perforate | A sweeping attack highly effective against wounds and weak points, dealing massive damage with multiple hits. Release R1/RB to end the attack early. |
Mastering Great Sword Combos
Effective Great Sword combat relies on mastering several key combos:
True Charged Slash Combo
Executed by pressing Triangle/Y three times. This starts with an Overhead Slash, followed by a Strong Charged Slash, culminating in the devastating True Charged Slash. Charging each slash (holding the button) increases damage, indicated by white, yellow, and red flashes. Hitting a weak point with the True Charged Slash triggers the even more powerful True Charged Slash (Power). A shortcut involves dodging after the True Charged Slash combo, then pressing Triangle/Y for a Tackle, skipping the Overhead Slash and transitioning directly to the Strong Charged Slash for quicker damage.
Forward Lunging Combo
This three-hit combo (Circle/B x3) consists of a Wide Slash, Tackle, and Leaping Wide Slash. Ideal for covering ground and attacking hard-to-reach areas, especially when combined with Focus Mode for precise weak point targeting.
Stationary Combo
Best used against paralyzed monsters, this quick four-hit combo (Wide Slash and Rising Slash repeated twice) maintains pressure but isn't the highest damage option.
Defense and Counterattacks
Offset Rising Slash (Counter)
While a standalone attack, the Offset Rising Slash excels as a counter. Holding Triangle/Y + Circle/B and releasing just as a monster attacks knocks it down, allowing a Cross Slash follow-up (Triangle/Y). Precise timing is key to avoid taking damage.
Guarding
Holding R2/RT guards against attacks, consuming stamina. A perfectly timed guard (Perfect Guard) negates all damage, sometimes leading to a Power Clash (mash Circle/B) to knock down the monster.
Master these techniques, and you'll wield the Great Sword with devastating efficiency in *Monster Hunter Wilds*. For more gaming guides, visit The Escapist.
Monster Hunter Wilds is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.
