In the intricate world of *Monster Hunter Wilds*, finding the perfect balance between offense and defense can be challenging, especially when every piece of equipment from armor to Talismans involves trade-offs. However, the Sword and Shield stands out as a versatile weapon that excels in both areas, offering a seamless blend of combat capabilities. Here's a comprehensive guide on maximizing the potential of the Sword and Shield in *Monster Hunter Wilds*.
Sword and Shield in Monster Hunter Wilds
The Sword and Shield is an indispensable tool for hunters, whether you're just starting out or a seasoned veteran. Its versatility lies in its ability to swiftly transition between offense and defense. With high mobility, substantial damage output, and the option to guard, it's a weapon that adapts to any situation, making it a top choice for players seeking flexibility and reliability in their hunts.
All Moves
| Command | Move | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Triangle/Y | Standard Attack | A basic sword attack that can be chained together for a 4-hit combo. Use the analog stick mid-combo to adjust your positioning. |
| Circle/B | Special Attack | Use the analog stick with Circle/B to perform a Shield Attack that deals stun damage. Press Circle/B to perform 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 allow a terrain-specific attack. |
| Triangle/Y + Circle/B (During Combo) | Roundslash | An attack that slashes a wide area, during which you can quickly change your direction. Chaining it from certain attacks will result in the powerful Spinning Reaper. |
| Holding down Triangle/Y + Circle/B (During Combo) | Charged Chop | A powerful leaping attack. Hitting the soft spot in a monster's hide will allow you to deal multiple instances of damage. The power of the attack increases if used after certain attacks. |
| Forward on analog stick + Circle/B | Shield Attack | Use the shield to bash into enemies and deal stun damage 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 afflict 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 players to jump high in the air. While airborne, you can follow up with different aerial attacks such as Jumping Slash (Triangle/Y) or a Falling Bash (Circle/B). |
| Hold down R2/RT | Guard | Guard against attacks using your shield. Guarding at the right time will result in a Perfect Guard. Press Triangle/Y after a Perfect Guard to perform a quick and powerful Counter Slash. |
| R2/RT + Triangle/Y | Sliding Swipe | An attack that can be performed easily, allowing you to quickly close 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 the wounds or a weak point, press Triangle/Y to follow up with a Falling Slash, or Circle/B for an Upswing Bash. |
Combos
Image Source: Capcom via The Escapist
For players aiming to maximize damage while maintaining agility, mastering key combos is crucial. Here are some essential combos to master:
Lateral Slash Combo
Begin with a Lateral Slash (Circle/B), followed by a Return Stroke (Circle/B), a Spinning Rising Slash (Circle/B), then 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 quickly without leaving you vulnerable for long.
Shield Bash Combo
To knock down your target, initiate the Shield Attack combo by moving the analog stick forward and pressing Circle/B, followed by two more Circle/B inputs, and conclude with a Guard Slash (R2/RT + Circle/B). This combo is particularly effective when targeting a monster's head, often resulting in a knockdown after a few uses.
Perfect Rush Combo
The Perfect Rush combo is one of the most potent in the game. Start with any attack, then execute a 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 end with a Falling Bash (Circle/B). Timing is critical; watch for the red flash on your hunter to amplify damage output.
Related: How to Capture Monsters in Monster Hunter Wild
Sword and Shield Tips
Image Source: Capcom via The Escapist
Leveraging the Sword and Shield's unique blend of offense and defense, here are some tips to enhance your gameplay:
Vary Your Attacks
To expedite the defeat of your target, alternate between fast sword attacks to build elemental damage and shield attacks to inflict stun damage. This strategy can quickly topple even the toughest monsters.
Dodging and Guarding
Mastering the art of defense is crucial. Use Guarding and Backstep to avoid damage. Perfect Guards, executed with precise timing, can negate incoming attacks, while Power Clashes can push monsters back. Backstep not only evades attacks but also sets up counterattacks, so practice your timing and positioning.
Focus Strikes
As you inflict wounds on monsters, utilize Focus Strikes to capitalize on their vulnerabilities. The Sword and Shield allows for two follow-up attacks: Falling Slash for additional hits or Upswing Bash, which can be chained into Falling Bash for increased stun damage.
Item Usage
A unique advantage of the Sword and Shield is the ability to use items without sheathing your weapon. This feature allows for quick healing or support, keeping you in the fight longer and maintaining pressure on your foes.
That's everything you need to know about wielding 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.*
