One of the standout features of the *Monster Hunter* series is the diverse arsenal of weapons at a hunter's disposal, and the Great Sword in *Monster Hunter Wilds* is no exception. If you're eager to become proficient with this heavy-hitting weapon, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to dominate the battlefield.
Best Ways to Use the Great Sword in Monster Hunter Wilds
The Great Sword, true to its name, is a formidable weapon that trades speed for devastating power. A single well-timed swing can inflict massive damage, making it crucial for players to master the art of timing and positioning. As you progress, upgrades will enhance its power and introduce elemental bonuses, further amplifying its effectiveness.
All Moves
| Command | Move | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Triangle/Y | Overhead Slash | An immediate overhead attack that can be chained into a charge for additional combos. |
| Holding down Triangle/Y | Charge/Charged Slash | A powerful slash that increases in strength the longer it is charged. |
| Holding down Triangle/Y + Circle/B | Tackle | A rising slash that can counter monster attacks. If timed correctly, it knocks the monster down, allowing for a follow-up 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 | An upward slash ideal for reaching high monster parts. |
| Holding down Triangle/Y + Circle/B | Offset Rising Slash | A charged rising slash that, when released at the right moment, can knock down a monster. Follow up with a Cross Slash using Triangle/Y. |
| R2/RT | Guard | A defensive stance using the Great Sword's blade. Adjust the guard direction with Focus Mode. |
| R2/RT + Triangle/Y | Kick | A kick executed while guarding by pressing Triangle/Y. |
| L2/LT + R1/RB | Focus Slash/Perforate | A sweeping attack that hits multiple times on monster wounds or weak points. Press R1/RB to end the attack early. |
Combos
Mastering combos with the Great Sword in *Monster Hunter Wilds* can significantly boost your damage output and control over battles.
True Charged Slash Combo
Initiate this combo by pressing Triangle/Y three times in a row, starting with an Overhead Slash, followed by a Strong Charged Slash, and culminating in the True Charged Slash. Charging each slash by holding down the attack button enhances the damage, with the hunter's color changing from white to yellow to red, indicating charge levels. Striking a soft part of the monster with the True Charged Slash triggers the True Charged Slash (Power), further increasing damage. A useful shortcut allows you to dodge immediately after hitting the combo and press Triangle/Y for a Tackle, skipping the initial Overhead Slash and moving straight to the Strong Charged Slash for quicker engagements.
Forward Lunging Combo
This combo, activated by pressing Circle/B three times, includes a Wide Slash, a Tackle, and a Leaping Wide Slash. It's perfect for covering large areas and targeting elusive enemies. Utilizing Focus Mode during this combo ensures you hit all weak spots and wounds effectively.
Stationary Combo
When a monster is immobilized by status effects like paralysis, employ this combo, consisting of a Wide Slash and a Rising Slash repeated twice. This quick four-hit combo keeps the pressure on but isn't the most damaging option.
Related: How to Capture Monsters in Monster Hunter Wild
Guard and Counters
The Great Sword in *Monster Hunter Wilds* allows players to block incoming damage and launch potent counterattacks with precise timing.
Offset Rising Slash
While the Rising Slash is excellent for targeting taller enemies, it shines as a counterattack mechanic. Pressing Triangle/Y and Circle/B together initiates the Rising Slash, but holding the buttons charges it. Releasing the charge just as a monster attacks can knock it down, allowing for a follow-up Cross Slash with Triangle/Y. Timing is critical to avoid taking damage.
Guarding
Holding R2/RT activates the Great Sword's guard, reducing incoming damage at the cost of stamina. Perfect timing can lead to a Perfect Guard, negating all damage with visual and sound cues. While it doesn't halt the monster's attack, chaining Perfect Guards can be effective against monster combos. Occasionally, a Perfect Guard may initiate a Power Clash, where mashing Circle/B can overpower the monster, knocking it down for further attacks.
That's all you need to know to master the Great Sword in *Monster Hunter Wilds*. For more tips and tricks, keep exploring The Escapist.
Monster Hunter Wilds is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.
