Mastering the art of balance is crucial in Monster Hunter Wilds, where every piece of equipment, from armor to Talismans, presents its own set of trade-offs. However, the Sword and Shield offers remarkable versatility in combat, seamlessly blending offense and defense. This guide will show you how to maximize its potential.
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The Sword and Shield is a reliable choice for both novice and veteran hunters. Its agility, damage output, and defensive capabilities make it effective in any situation. It's equally adept at escaping perilous situations and launching aggressive attacks.
All Moves
| Command | Move | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Triangle/Y | Standard Attack | A basic sword attack forming a four-hit combo. Adjust your position mid-combo using the analog stick. |
| Circle/B | Special Attack | Use the analog stick with Circle/B for a Shield Attack (stun damage). Press Circle/B for a powerful Lateral Slash. |
| Triangle/Y + Circle/B | Advancing Slash | An upward slash while moving forward. Terrain-specific attacks are possible when used while sliding downhill or approaching a ledge. |
| Triangle/Y + Circle/B (During Combo) | Roundslash | A wide-area slash allowing quick directional changes. Chaining it from specific attacks unleashes the powerful Spinning Reaper. |
| Holding down Triangle/Y + Circle/B (During Combo) | Charged Chop | A powerful leaping attack. Hitting a monster's weak point inflicts multiple instances of damage. Power increases after certain attacks. |
| Forward on analog stick + Circle/B | Shield Attack | Bash enemies with your shield, dealing stun damage when targeting the head. |
| Push back analog stick + Circle/B (During Combo) | Backstep | Avoid monster attacks mid-combo. Press Triangle/Y during a Backstep for Perfect Rush (a multi-hit attack easily inflicting elemental damage and ailments). Press Triangle/Y when the sword flashes to boost damage. |
| Circle/B During Backstep | Charged Slash | A Charged Slash after a Backstep allows a high jump, followed by aerial attacks like Jumping Slash (Triangle/Y) or Falling Bash (Circle/B). |
| Hold down R2/RT | Guard | Guard against attacks. A perfectly timed guard results in a Perfect Guard. Press Triangle/Y after a Perfect Guard for a powerful Counter Slash. |
| R2/RT + Triangle/Y | Sliding Swipe | Quickly close the distance to your target. |
| R2/RT + Square/X | Use Item | Use items while your weapon is drawn. |
| L2/LT + R1/RB | Focus Strike: Vital Stab | A stabbing attack effective against wounds. After hitting a wound or weak point, press Triangle/Y for a Falling Slash or Circle/B for an Upswing Bash. |
Combos
For hunters prioritizing both damage and evasion, these combos are essential:
Lateral Slash Combo
This combo, starting with Lateral Slash (Circle/B), builds into increasingly powerful attacks: Return Stroke (Circle/B), Spinning Rising Slash (Circle/B), Spinning Reaper (Triangle/Y + Circle/B), and finally, Charged Chop (Hold Triangle/Y + Circle/B). It's quick, powerful, and doesn't lock you into a long animation.
Shield Bash Combo
Ideal for staggering enemies, this combo targets the monster's head: Shield Attack (Forward analog stick + Circle/B), followed by two more Circle/B inputs, culminating in a Guard Slash (R2/RT + Circle/B).
Perfect Rush Combo
The most potent Sword and Shield combo. Begin with any attack, then execute Backstep (Push back analog stick + Circle/B), Leaping Slash (Triangle/Y), Perfect Rush (Triangle/Y), Scaling Slash (Triangle/Y), and Falling Bash (Circle/B). Precise timing during Backstep, Leaping Slash, and Perfect Rush (watch for the hunter's red flash) significantly increases damage.
Related: How to Capture Monsters in Monster Hunter Wild
Sword and Shield Tips
Mastering the Sword and Shield involves combining swift attacks with strategic defense:
Vary Your Attacks
Utilize both the sword's rapid attacks (building elemental damage) and the shield's stuns to maximize efficiency.
Dodging and Guarding
Master Perfect Guards to negate damage and utilize Power Clashes to knock back monsters. Backstep allows for both evasion and immediate counterattacks. Practice timing for optimal results.
Focus Strikes
Exploit Focus Strike's effectiveness against wounds, following up with either Falling Slash (for multiple hits) or Upswing Bash (for increased stun).
Item Usage
Take advantage of the ability to use items while your weapon is drawn for quick healing or support.
This comprehensive guide covers the essentials of Sword and Shield combat in Monster Hunter Wilds. For more helpful guides, visit The Escapist.
Monster Hunter Wilds is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.
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