Finding the perfect balance in *Monster Hunter Wilds* can be challenging, given the tradeoffs inherent in everything from armor to Talismans. Yet, when it comes to combat, the Sword and Shield stands out for its versatility, offering both offensive and defensive capabilities. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to maximize your potential with the Sword and Shield in *Monster Hunter Wilds*.
Sword and Shield in Monster Hunter Wilds
The Sword and Shield is a reliable choice for both newcomers and seasoned hunters alike. Its ability to swiftly transition from offense to defense, coupled with impressive mobility and damage output, makes it an excellent tool for navigating the game's myriad challenges.
All Moves
| Command | Move | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Triangle/Y | Standard Attack | A basic sword attack that can be chained into 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 execute 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 these key combos is crucial.
Lateral Slash Combo
The Lateral Slash combo sets the stage for high damage output, especially when followed by Spinning Reaper and Charged Chop attacks. Begin with Lateral Slash (Circle/B), then proceed to Return Stroke (Circle/B), Spinning Rising Slash (Circle/B), Spinning Reaper (Triangle/Y + Circle/B), and finally, Charged Chop (Hold Triangle/Y + Circle/B). This rapid and potent combo delivers significant damage without leaving you vulnerable for long.
Shield Bash Combo
To knock down your target, employ the Shield Attack combo. Initiate the sequence by pressing forward on the analog stick and 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 aimed at the monster's head and can topple most enemies after a few repetitions.
Perfect Rush Combo
Arguably the most powerful combo for the Sword and Shield, the Perfect Rush combo should be your primary offensive strategy. 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 essential here; watch for the hunter to flash red to maximize damage.
Related: How to Capture Monsters in Monster Hunter Wild
Sword and Shield Tips
Image Source: Capcom via The Escapist
Harness the dual capabilities of the Sword and Shield along with agile movement to enhance your effectiveness in combat.
Vary Your Attacks
To expedite the defeat of your target, utilize the Sword and Shield in diverse ways. Fast sword attacks accumulate elemental damage, while a series of shield attacks can stun the enemy, providing an opportunity to knock them down.
Dodging and Guarding
When defense is paramount, rely on Guarding and Backstep. Mastering Perfect Guards with precise timing can negate incoming damage, and Power Clashes offer a chance to repel the monster. Backstep allows you to evade attacks while setting up a counterattack. Understanding spacing and timing will make you a formidable opponent.
Focus Strikes
As you inflict more wounds on monsters, leverage the Focus Strike to capitalize on their vulnerabilities. The Sword and Shield's unique advantage is the ability to follow up with either a Falling Slash for additional hits or an Upswing Bash, which can transition into a Falling Bash to increase stun damage.
Item Usage
A distinctive benefit for Sword and Shield users in *Monster Hunter Wilds* is the ability to use items without sheathing your weapon. This feature allows for swift healing and support, keeping the pressure on your adversaries.
That's a wrap on our guide to mastering the Sword and Shield in *Monster Hunter Wilds*. For more tips and strategies, be sure to explore The Escapist.
*Monster Hunter Wilds is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.*
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