In the expansive world of *Monster Hunter Wilds*, the Hunting Horn stands out not only for its unique auditory presence but also for its powerful utility in battle. Enthusiasts of this instrument-turned-weapon will find its buffs and melodies to be a game-changer on the battlefield. Here’s how you can master the Hunting Horn and turn it into a formidable tool in *Monster Hunter Wilds*.
Hunting Horn in Monster Hunter Wilds
The Hunting Horn is a blunt weapon renowned for its ability to produce buffs for both the user and their allies. It’s all about mastering the melodies and timing your performances to gain the upper hand in combat.
All Moves
| Command | Move | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Triangle/Y | Left Swing | A basic attack that produces Note 1 on the musical staff. Use it with a direction to perform a Forward Smash. |
| Circle/B | Right Swing | A basic attack that produces Note 2 on the musical staff. |
| Analog Direction + Circle/B | Flourish | An attack that produces Note 2 on the musical staff. Pressing Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B during the attack will allow you to produce another note. |
| Triangle/Y + Circle/B | Backwards Strike | A basic attack that produces Note 3 on the musical staff. It allows hunters to easily hit a target behind them, and will move hunters backwards as they attack. |
| Analog Direction + Triangle/Y + Circle/B | Overhead Smash | An attack that produces Note 3 on the musical staff. Pressing Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B during the attack will allow you to produce another note. |
| Backwards Analog Direction + Triangle/Y or Circle/B or Triangle/Y + Circle/B during combo | Hilt Stab | A quick attack that produces a note on the musical staff. The attack can be used after a number of different attacks, with Triangle/Y, Circle/B, and Triangle/Y + Circle/B producing their own note. |
| R2/RT | Perform | An attack that activates Melody Effect. Stocked melodies will be performed in order, but a specific melody can be selected using R2/RT + Triangle/Y or Circle/B. While performing multiple melodies, press R2/RT for a powerful Performance Beat. Then play an Encore (Triangle/Y + Circle/B) to boost and extend Melody Effects. The power of a Performance Beat and Encore will increase if you time them with the activation of Melody Effects. |
| R2/RT + Cross/A | Echo Bubble | A special attack that produces an Echo Bubble. The type of Echo Bubble created is determined by the Hunting Horn equipped. When creating an Echo Bubble, players can produce up to three notes with either Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B. |
| R2/RT + Triangle/Y + Circle/B with Melody Stocked | Special Performance | Unlike normal performances, Special Performances will play the unique Melody Effect associated with the Hunting Horn equipped. Once stocked, this melody will not be overwritten by new melodies. |
| L2/LT + R1/RB | Focus Strike: Reverb | A Performance attack effective against wounds. Players can produce up to five notes with either Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B while performing. Playing the notes at the right time will deal additional damage. |
Combos
In addition to its musical prowess, the Hunting Horn delivers significant blunt damage. Here are some combos to enhance your gameplay between performances.
Overhead Smash Combo
This essential combo should be a staple in your arsenal. Simply move forward with the analog stick and press Triangle/Y + Circle/B twice to execute the Overhead Smash and its follow-up attack. Consistent use of this combo can even stun the monster, so aim carefully and strike hard.
Performance Combo
After stacking your desired songs, initiate a performance with this combo for additional damage. Move forward with the analog stick and press R2/RT to start the Perform action, then follow up with Triangle/Y + Circle/B for an Encore to amplify and prolong your Melody Effects.
Echo Bubble Combo
Utilize the unique Echo Bubble mechanic in this combo, which is particularly effective against incapacitated enemies. Begin with the Echo Bubble (Cross/A + R2/RT), then proceed with Triangle/Y, Circle/B, Circle/B for Echo Wave (Blunt), followed by R2/RT for Perform, and conclude with an Encore using Triangle/Y + Circle/B.
Related: How to Capture Monsters in Monster Hunter Wild
Hunting Horn Tips
Mastering the Hunting Horn involves not just playing melodies but also strategically managing buffs and optimizing damage output, especially in team scenarios.
All About the Notes
Mastering the Hunting Horn requires familiarity with building melodies using different notes. Each Hunting Horn has unique songs that require specific note combinations. Keep an eye on the top right corner of your screen to see which command corresponds to the note you need. Moves like Flourish and Overhead Smash allow you to add an extra note during the second attack, facilitating the creation of desired songs. Additionally, you can play notes while riding your Seikret to form melodies while chasing down monsters.
Buff City
Once you understand the notes, it’s time to stack them into songs. You can play multiple songs in succession to benefit from various buffs, tailoring them to your current situation. Remember, performing these songs takes time, so plan accordingly.
Echo Chamber
Maximize the use of Echo Bubbles to create an advantageous battlefield. Not only do they allow for three additional note inputs, but they also amplify your subsequent attacks. The increased Evasion and Movement Speed within the Echo Bubble enhance your survivability, making it essential to deploy before engaging in High Rank hunts.
Self-Improvement is Key
Ensure you activate the Self-Improvement skill to at least level 2 on all Hunting Horns. This will boost your attacks by 20%, increasing your damage potential and reducing the time needed to affect monsters.
Always be Prepared With Special Performances
Keep a Special Performance ready at all times. For instance, the Offset Melody, once prepared, remains available until you choose to use it. When a monster attacks, input the Special Performance command (R2/RT + Triangle/Y + Circle/B), hold the stance, and release just as the monster hits to knock it down.
That’s everything you need to know to master the Hunting Horn in Monster Hunter Wilds. For more tips and tricks, be sure to check out The Escapist.
Monster Hunter Wilds is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.
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