The *Monster Hunter* series is renowned for its diverse arsenal of weapons, and mastering the Great Sword in *Monster Hunter Wilds* is essential for any aspiring hunter. This guide will equip you with the knowledge and strategies to excel with this formidable weapon.
Best Ways to Use the Great Sword in Monster Hunter Wilds
The Great Sword is a heavy weapon known for its slow but devastating attacks. A single well-timed swing can inflict massive damage, making timing and strategy crucial for success. As you progress, upgrades will enhance its power and introduce elemental bonuses, further increasing its effectiveness.
All Moves
| Command | Move | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Triangle/Y | Overhead Slash | An uncharged overhead attack that can be chained into a charge for further combos. |
| Holding down Triangle/Y | Charge/Charged Slash | A slashing attack that gains power as it's charged. |
| Holding down Triangle/Y + Circle/B | Tackle | A rising slash that can counter monster attacks. When timed correctly, it knocks the monster down, allowing for a follow-up Cross Slash with Triangle/Y. |
| Circle/B | Wide Slash | A wide-ranging slashing attack. Can be chained into a Leaping Wide Slash from a Tackle, or into a Strong Wide Slash from a Strong Charged 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. Follow up with a Cross Slash using Triangle/Y. |
| R2/RT | Guard | Uses the Great Sword to block attacks. The guard direction can be adjusted with Focus Mode. |
| R2/RT + Triangle/Y | Kick | Perform a kick while guarding by pressing Triangle/Y. |
| L2/LT + R1/RB | Focus Slash/Perforate | A sweeping attack that targets wounds and weak points, dealing multiple hits. Press R1/RB to end the attack early. |
Combos
Mastering combos is crucial for maximizing damage output with the Great Sword in *Monster Hunter Wilds*. Here are some key combos to remember:
True Charged Slash Combo
Initiate this combo by pressing Triangle/Y three times in succession. It begins with an Overhead Slash, followed by a Strong Charged Slash, and culminates in the True Charged Slash. You can charge each slash by holding down the attack button, indicated by the hunter flashing white, yellow, and red, increasing damage with each level. Hitting a soft spot with the True Charged Slash triggers the True Charged Slash (Power), boosting damage further. A shortcut allows you to dodge immediately after hitting the combo, then press Triangle/Y to tackle, skipping the Overhead Slash and moving directly to the Strong Charged Slash, helping you close the distance and deal damage faster.
Forward Lunging Combo
This combo involves a Wide Slash, a Tackle, and a Leaping Wide Slash, initiated with three presses of the Circle/B button. Ideal for targeting elusive monsters, it covers a large area while maintaining high damage potential. Using Focus Mode simultaneously can ensure you hit all weak spots and wounds effectively.
Stationary Combo
For monsters affected by status effects like paralysis, use this combo consisting of a Wide Slash and a Rising Slash, repeated twice for a four-hit sequence. While quick and pressure-inducing, it's not the most damaging combo.
Related: How to Capture Monsters in Monster Hunter Wild
Guard and Counters
The Great Sword in *Monster Hunter Wilds* allows for blocking and powerful counterattacks with precise timing. Here's how to leverage these mechanics:
Offset Rising Slash
The Rising Slash is excellent for attacking taller enemies, but it shines as a countering tool. Press Triangle/Y and Circle/B simultaneously to unleash it, or hold down the buttons to charge. 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 essential to avoid taking more damage.
Guarding
Guarding with the Great Sword by holding R2/RT reduces incoming damage at the cost of stamina. It's not ideal for extended battles due to chip damage, but with perfect timing, you can achieve a Perfect Guard, negating all damage. This requires guarding the moment an attack hits, accompanied by visual and sound cues. A Perfect Guard may 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 visit The Escapist.
*Monster Hunter Wilds is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.*
