Master the Versatile Sword and Shield in Monster Hunter Wilds
In Monster Hunter Wilds, balancing offense and defense is crucial. The Sword and Shield, however, offers exceptional versatility. This guide details how to maximize its potential.
Recommended Videos: Sword and Shield Techniques in Monster Hunter Wilds
The Sword and Shield is a reliable weapon for both beginners and experienced hunters. Its mobility, damage output, and defensive capabilities make it effective in various situations.
Complete Move Set
| Command | Move | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Triangle/Y | Standard Attack | A four-hit combo. Adjust positioning 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 near a ledge. |
| Triangle/Y + Circle/B (During Combo) | Roundslash | A wide-area slash allowing quick directional changes. Certain attack chains lead to the powerful Spinning Reaper. |
| Holding down Triangle/Y + Circle/B (During Combo) | Charged Chop | A powerful leaping attack. Multiple hits are possible on weak points. Power increases after specific attacks. |
| Forward on analog stick + Circle/B | Shield Attack | Bash enemies with the shield; stun damage is maximized when hitting the head. |
| Push back analog stick + Circle/B (During Combo) | Backstep | Avoid attacks during combos. Press Triangle/Y during a Backstep for Perfect Rush (a multi-hit attack that easily inflicts elemental damage and ailments). Press Triangle/Y when the sword flashes to boost damage. |
| Circle/B During Backstep | Charged Slash | A high jump follows a successful Charged Slash after a Backstep. Perform aerial attacks like Jumping Slash (Triangle/Y) or Falling Bash (Circle/B) while airborne. |
| Hold down R2/RT | Guard | Guard against attacks. Perfect Guard timing negates damage. Press Triangle/Y after a Perfect Guard for a Counter Slash. |
| R2/RT + Triangle/Y | Sliding Swipe | Quickly close the distance to the target. |
| R2/RT + Square/X | Use Item | Use items while the weapon is unsheathed. |
| L2/LT + R1/RB | Focus Strike: Vital Stab | Effective against wounds. After hitting a wound or weak point, press Triangle/Y for a Falling Slash, or Circle/B for an Upswing Bash. |
Key Combos
Lateral Slash Combo: Lateral Slash (Circle/B), Return Stroke (Circle/B), Spinning Rising Slash (Circle/B), Spinning Reaper (Triangle/Y + Circle/B), Charged Chop (Hold Triangle/Y + Circle/B).
Shield Bash Combo: Forward analog stick + Circle/B (x3), Guard Slash (R2/RT + Circle/B).
Perfect Rush Combo: Any attack, Backstep (Push back analog stick + Circle/B), Leaping Slash (Triangle/Y), Perfect Rush (Triangle/Y), Scaling Slash (Triangle/Y), Falling Bash (Circle/B). Timing is key for maximizing damage.
Advanced Sword and Shield Strategies
- Vary Attacks: Combine fast sword attacks (building elemental damage) with shield attacks (for stun).
- Defense: Master Perfect Guards and Backsteps for effective defense and counterattacks.
- Focus Strikes: Utilize Focus Strikes on wounds, followed by Falling Slash or Upswing Bash.
- Item Usage: Use items while your weapon is drawn for efficient healing and support.
This comprehensive guide will help you dominate Monster Hunter Wilds with the Sword and Shield. Check The Escapist for more game guides.
Monster Hunter Wilds is available on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.
