"Master Sword and Shield in Monster Hunter Wilds: Moves and Combos Guide"
In *Monster Hunter Wilds*, achieving the perfect balance between offense and defense can be challenging, given the trade-offs inherent in everything from armor to Talismans. However, the Sword and Shield offers a versatile solution for both beginners and seasoned hunters. With its ability to seamlessly blend attack and defense, mastering the Sword and Shield can significantly enhance your gameplay. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to maximize the potential of your Sword and Shield in *Monster Hunter Wilds*.
Sword and Shield in Monster Hunter Wilds
The Sword and Shield stands out as a reliable weapon choice, adept at both extricating you from perilous situations and propelling you into the thick of combat. Its combination of mobility, damage output, and defensive capabilities makes it an excellent option for hunters at any skill level.
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 for a Shield Attack that deals stun damage. Press Circle/B alone for a powerful Lateral Slash. |
| Triangle/Y + Circle/B | Advancing Slash | An upward slash performed while advancing forward. Utilize this on slopes or ledges for terrain-specific attacks. |
| Triangle/Y + Circle/B (During Combo) | Roundslash | A wide-area slash, allowing quick directional changes. Chain from certain attacks for the powerful Spinning Reaper. |
| Holding down Triangle/Y + Circle/B (During Combo) | Charged Chop | A powerful leaping attack. Hitting a monster's soft spot deals multiple damage instances, with increased power following certain attacks. |
| Forward on analog stick + Circle/B | Shield Attack | Bash enemies with your shield to deal stun damage, especially effective when targeting the enemy's head. |
| Push back analog stick + Circle/B (During Combo) | Backstep | Use during combos to evade monster attacks. Follow with Triangle/Y during a Backstep for Perfect Rush, a multi-hit attack that inflicts elemental damage and ailments. Press Triangle/Y when the sword flashes for increased damage. |
| Circle/B During Backstep | Charged Slash | Jump high after a Backstep with a Charged Slash, followed by aerial attacks like Jumping Slash (Triangle/Y) or Falling Bash (Circle/B). |
| Hold down R2/RT | Guard | Shield against attacks. A well-timed Perfect Guard allows for a quick, powerful Counter Slash with Triangle/Y. |
| R2/RT + Triangle/Y | Sliding Swipe | Quickly close the distance to your target with this easily executed attack. |
| R2/RT + Square/X | Use Item | Use certain items without sheathing your weapon. |
| L2/LT + R1/RB | Focus Strike: Vital Stab | Stab wounds or weak points, then follow with Falling Slash (Triangle/Y) or Upswing Bash (Circle/B). |
Combos
For those aiming to maximize damage while staying agile, here are key Sword and Shield combos to master.
Lateral Slash Combo
Start with Lateral Slash (Circle/B), then follow with Return Stroke (Circle/B), Spinning Rising Slash (Circle/B), Spinning Reaper (Triangle/Y + Circle/B), and conclude with Charged Chop (Hold Triangle/Y + Circle/B). This combo delivers swift, potent damage without locking you into lengthy animations.
Shield Bash Combo
To knock down your target, initiate with a Shield Attack (Forward on analog stick + Circle/B), followed by two more Circle/B presses, and finish with a Guard Slash (R2/RT + Circle/B). This is particularly effective when targeting a monster's head, often knocking them down with repeated use.
Perfect Rush Combo
The most powerful Sword and Shield combo, start with any attack, then Backstep (Push back analog stick + Circle/B), Leaping Slash (Triangle/Y), Perfect Rush (Triangle/Y), Scaling Slash (Triangle/Y), and end with Falling Bash (Circle/B). Timing is crucial; look for the red flash on your hunter to maximize damage output.
Sword and Shield Tips
Leveraging the Sword and Shield's versatility can elevate your hunting prowess. Here are some essential tips to use it effectively.
Vary Your Attacks
Employ a mix of fast sword attacks to build elemental damage and shield bashes for stun damage. This strategy can quickly bring down your target.
Dodging and Guarding
Master the art of Perfect Guards and timely Backsteps to minimize damage and position for counterattacks. Understanding spacing and timing will make you a formidable hunter.
Focus Strikes
When you inflict wounds, utilize Focus Strike for maximum effect. Unlike other weapons, the Sword and Shield allows for two follow-up options: Falling Slash for more hits or Upswing Bash for increased stun potential.
Item Usage
Take advantage of the Sword and Shield's unique ability to use items without sheathing your weapon. This feature allows for quicker recovery and support, keeping the pressure on your enemies.
That's a comprehensive guide to using the Sword and Shield in *Monster Hunter Wilds*. For more tips and strategies, be sure to check out The Escapist.
*Monster Hunter Wilds is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.*
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