One of the most exciting aspects of the *Monster Hunter* franchise is the diverse array of weapons at hunters' disposal, each offering unique playstyles and strategies. For those looking to conquer *Monster Hunter Wilds* with the Great Sword, this comprehensive guide will help you master this powerful weapon.
Best Ways To Use the Great Sword in Monster Hunter Wilds
The Great Sword is the epitome of brute force, delivering devastating damage with each swing despite its slow speed. Mastering the timing and positioning of your attacks can transform you into a formidable hunter. As you progress, upgrades will enhance the Great Sword's power and add elemental bonuses, making it an even deadlier tool in your arsenal.
All Moves
| Command | Move | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Triangle/Y | Overhead Slash | An immediate overhead attack that can be chained into a charge for extended combos. |
| Holding down Triangle/Y | Charge/Charged Slash | A powerful slashing attack that gains strength the longer it is charged. |
| Holding down Triangle/Y + Circle/B | Tackle | A rising slash that can counter monster attacks. Timing it right can knock the monster down, followed by a Cross Slash with Triangle/Y. |
| Circle/B | Wide Slash | A broad slashing attack that can be chained into a Leaping Wide Slash or a Strong Wide Slash. |
| Triangle/Y + Circle/B | Rising Slash | A high-reaching slash ideal for targeting elevated monster parts. |
| Holding down Triangle/Y + Circle/B | Offset Rising Slash | A charged rising slash that can counter monster attacks, knocking them down if timed correctly, followed by a Cross Slash with Triangle/Y. |
| R2/RT | Guard | A defensive move using the Great Sword's blade. The guard direction can be adjusted with Focus Mode. |
| R2/RT + Triangle/Y | Kick | A kick performed while guarding by pressing Triangle/Y. |
| L2/LT + R1/RB | Focus Slash/Perforate | A sweeping attack effective against wounds and weak points, dealing multiple hits. Press R1/RB to end the attack early. |
Combos
Mastering combos with the Great Sword in *Monster Hunter Wilds* can significantly enhance your damage output and control over battles.
True Charged Slash Combo
Initiate this combo by pressing Triangle/Y three times in succession. Start with an Overhead Slash, followed by a Strong Charged Slash, and conclude with the True Charged Slash. You can charge each slash by holding down the attack button, with the hunter's color changing from white to yellow to red, indicating increased damage. Hitting a soft part of the monster with a True Charged Slash triggers the True Charged Slash (Power), boosting damage further. After executing the combo, dodge immediately and press Triangle/Y to perform a Tackle, skipping the initial Overhead Slash and transitioning directly to the Strong Charged Slash for quicker, more effective attacks.
Forward Lunging Combo
This combo is initiated with three presses of the Circle/B button, resulting in a Wide Slash, a Tackle, and a Leaping Wide Slash. It's perfect for covering large areas and targeting elusive monsters. Using Focus Mode during this combo ensures you hit all weak spots and wounds, maximizing your damage potential.
Stationary Combo
When a monster is immobilized by status effects like paralysis, use this combo, which involves two sets of Wide Slash and Rising Slash. This quick four-hit combo keeps the pressure on the monster, though it's less effective in terms of raw damage output.
Related: How to Capture Monsters in Monster Hunter Wild
Guard and Counters
The Great Sword in *Monster Hunter Wilds* allows players to block damage and execute powerful counterattacks with precise timing.
Offset Rising Slash
While the Rising Slash is effective against taller enemies, it shines as a countering mechanic. Press Triangle/Y and Circle/B simultaneously to unleash the Rising Slash, and hold to charge it. Release the charge just as the monster attacks to knock it down, then follow up with a Cross Slash using Triangle/Y. Mastering the timing is crucial to avoid taking unnecessary damage.
Guarding
Guarding with the Great Sword by holding R2/RT reduces incoming damage at the cost of stamina. While not ideal for prolonged fights due to chip damage, a well-timed Perfect Guard negates all damage. Achieving a Perfect Guard at the moment of impact triggers visual and sound effects. Occasionally, a Perfect Guard can lead to a Power Clash, where mashing Circle/B can win a struggle against the monster, knocking it down for further attacks.
With these strategies and techniques, you're well on your way to mastering the Great Sword in *Monster Hunter Wilds*. For more tips and guides, be sure to explore the rest of The Escapist.
Monster Hunter Wilds is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.
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