Mastering the art of balance is crucial in Monster Hunter Wilds, where every piece of equipment, from armor to Talismans, involves strategic trade-offs. However, the Sword and Shield offers exceptional versatility in combat. This weapon provides a potent blend of offensive and defensive capabilities, making it an ideal choice for both novice and veteran hunters. Let's explore how to maximize its potential.
Recommended Videos Sword and Shield in Monster Hunter Wilds
The Sword and Shield is a reliable weapon, equally adept at escaping perilous situations and launching aggressive attacks. Its agility, damage output, and defensive guarding capabilities make it a consistently strong choice across various scenarios.
All Moves
| Command | Move | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Triangle/Y | Standard Attack | A basic sword attack forming a four-hit combo. Adjust your position 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 approaching a ledge. |
| Triangle/Y + Circle/B (During Combo) | Roundslash | A wide-area slash allowing quick directional changes. Chaining it from specific attacks unlocks the powerful Spinning Reaper. |
| Holding down Triangle/Y + Circle/B (During Combo) | Charged Chop | A powerful leaping attack. Multiple damage instances occur when hitting a monster's weak point. The attack's power increases after certain attacks. |
| Forward on analog stick + Circle/B | Shield Attack | Bash enemies with your shield, dealing stun damage when targeting the head. |
| Push back analog stick + Circle/B (During Combo) | Backstep | Avoid monster attacks during combos. Press Triangle/Y during a Backstep for Perfect Rush (a multi-hit attack easily inflicting 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 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. A Perfect Guard results from well-timed guarding. Press Triangle/Y after a Perfect Guard for a powerful Counter Slash. |
| R2/RT + Triangle/Y | Sliding Swipe | Easily performed attack for quickly closing distance with the target. |
| R2/RT + Square/X | Use Item | Use items while your weapon is unsheathed. |
| L2/LT + R1/RB | Focus Strike: Vital Stab | Effective stabbing attack against wounds. After hitting wounds or weak points, press Triangle/Y for a Falling Slash, or Circle/B for an Upswing Bash. |
Combos
For hunters prioritizing both damage and evasion, these combos are essential:
Lateral Slash Combo
Maximize damage with this combo: begin with Lateral Slash (Circle/B), followed by Return Stroke (Circle/B), Spinning Rising Slash (Circle/B), then Spinning Reaper (Triangle/Y + Circle/B), and finally Charged Chop (Hold Triangle/Y + Circle/B). This swift, powerful combo delivers significant damage without prolonged vulnerability.
Shield Bash Combo
This combo focuses on staggering opponents. Start with a Shield Attack (forward analog stick + Circle/B), followed by two more Circle/B presses, culminating in a Guard Slash (R2/RT + Circle/B). Targeting the monster's head is crucial for maximum effectiveness.
Perfect Rush Combo
This is arguably the most potent Sword and Shield combo. Initiate with any attack, then perform a Backstep (push back analog stick + Circle/B), followed by a Leaping Slash (Triangle/Y), Perfect Rush (Triangle/Y), a Scaling Slash (Triangle/Y), and conclude with a Falling Bash (Circle/B). Precise timing is key; watch for the hunter's red flash before each subsequent move to optimize damage.
Sword and Shield Tips
Mastering the Sword and Shield involves skillful integration of both blade and shield, coupled with swift movement:
Vary Your Attacks
Utilize the Sword and Shield's versatility. Rapid sword attacks build elemental damage, while strategic shield attacks can inflict stunning blows, potentially toppling enemies.
Dodging and Guarding
Perfect Guards negate damage, while Power Clashes repel monsters. Backstepping provides evasion and immediate counterattack opportunities. Mastering timing and spacing is essential.
Focus Strikes
Exploit wounded monsters using Focus Strikes. The Sword and Shield allows follow-up attacks: Falling Slash (multiple hits) or Upswing Bash (chainable into Falling Bash for increased stun).
Item Usage
A unique advantage is the ability to use items with your weapon drawn. Maintain offensive pressure while quickly healing or supporting allies.
This comprehensive guide covers essential Sword and Shield techniques in Monster Hunter Wilds. For more game assistance, explore The Escapist.
Monster Hunter Wilds is available on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.
