Finding the perfect balance in *Monster Hunter Wilds* can be a challenge, as every piece of armor or Talisman comes with its own trade-offs. However, when it comes to combat, the Sword and Shield offers unparalleled versatility. With its blend of offense and defense, here’s 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 is a versatile weapon that can swiftly get you out of sticky situations and back into the fray. It's an excellent choice for both beginners and seasoned hunters due to its high mobility, solid damage output, and the ability to guard against attacks. Whether you're facing a new threat or a familiar foe, the Sword and Shield stands as a reliable companion in any battle.
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 during the combo to adjust your position. |
| Circle/B | Special Attack | Combine the analog stick with Circle/B for a Shield Attack that inflicts stun damage. Press Circle/B alone for a powerful Lateral Slash. |
| Triangle/Y + Circle/B | Advancing Slash | An upward slash performed while moving forward. Use it while sliding or near a ledge for terrain-specific attacks. |
| Triangle/Y + Circle/B (During Combo) | Roundslash | A wide area slash that allows quick directional changes. Chain it from certain attacks to unleash the powerful Spinning Reaper. |
| Holding down Triangle/Y + Circle/B (During Combo) | Charged Chop | A leaping attack that can deal multiple hits on a monster's soft spots. Its power increases when used after specific attacks. |
| Forward on analog stick + Circle/B | Shield Attack | Use your shield to bash enemies, dealing stun damage, especially when targeting the head. |
| Push back analog stick + Circle/B (During Combo) | Backstep | Backstep during combos to evade monster attacks. Press Triangle/Y during Backstep for Perfect Rush, a multi-hit attack that can apply elemental damage and ailments. Press Triangle/Y when the sword flashes to boost damage. |
| Circle/B During Backstep | Charged Slash | Perform a Charged Slash after Backstep to jump high. Follow up with aerial attacks like Jumping Slash (Triangle/Y) or Falling Bash (Circle/B). |
| Hold down R2/RT | Guard | Use your shield to guard against attacks. A well-timed guard results in a Perfect Guard. Follow up with Triangle/Y for a quick, powerful Counter Slash. |
| R2/RT + Triangle/Y | Sliding Swipe | A swift attack to close the distance between you and your target. |
| R2/RT + Square/X | Use Item | Use certain items while your weapon is unsheathed. |
| L2/LT + R1/RB | Focus Strike: Vital Stab | A stabbing attack effective against wounds. After hitting wounds or weak points, press Triangle/Y for a Falling Slash or Circle/B for an Upswing Bash. |
Combos
For players aiming to deal significant damage while staying agile, mastering these key combos is essential.
Lateral Slash Combo
Start with the Lateral Slash (Circle/B), followed by Return Stroke (Circle/B), Spinning Rising Slash (Circle/B), then into Spinning Reaper (Triangle/Y + Circle/B), and finish with Charged Chop (Hold Triangle/Y + Circle/B). This quick and potent combo inflicts substantial damage without locking you into lengthy animations.
Shield Bash Combo
To knock down your target, initiate the Shield Attack combo by pointing the analog stick forward and pressing Circle/B, followed by two more Circle/B inputs, and conclude with a Guard Slash (R2/RT + Circle/B). This combo is most effective when targeting a monster's head, capable of knocking down most monsters with a few repetitions.
Perfect Rush Combo
The most powerful combo for the Sword and Shield, the Perfect Rush, should be your go-to move. Begin with any attack, then perform a Backstep (Push back analog stick + Circle/B), followed by a Leaping Slash (Triangle/Y) into Perfect Rush (Triangle/Y), a Scaling Slash (Triangle/Y), and end with a Falling Bash (Circle/B). Timing is crucial; watch for the hunter to flash red before executing the next command to maximize damage.
Related: How to Capture Monsters in Monster Hunter Wild
Sword and Shield Tips
Leveraging both the blade and shield, along with swift movement, here are tips to enhance your Sword and Shield gameplay.
Vary Your Attacks
To efficiently take down your target, mix up your Sword and Shield attacks. Fast sword strikes build elemental damage, while a series of shield bashes can deliver enough stun damage to topple the monster.
Dodging and Guarding
When defense becomes crucial, utilize Guarding and Backstep. Mastering Perfect Guards with precise timing can negate incoming damage, and Power Clashes can push back the monster. Backstep not only evades attacks but also sets you up for a swift counterattack. Practice your spacing and timing to keep the monster at bay.
Focus Strikes
As you inflict more wounds on the monsters, use Focus Strikes to capitalize on their vulnerabilities. Unlike other weapons, the Sword and Shield allows you to follow up with either a Falling Slash for multiple hits or an Upswing Bash that can lead into a Falling Bash, increasing your stun damage potential.
Item Usage
A unique advantage for Sword and Shield users in *Monster Hunter Wilds* is the ability to use items without sheathing your weapon. This feature is invaluable for quick healing or supporting allies, ensuring you can maintain pressure on the monster without interruption.
That’s all the essential information on using the Sword and Shield in *Monster Hunter Wilds*. For more tips and tricks, be sure to check out The Escapist.
Monster Hunter Wilds is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.
