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, seamlessly blending offensive and defensive capabilities. This guide explores how to maximize the Sword and Shield's potential in Monster Hunter Wilds.
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The Sword and Shield is a reliable choice for both novice and veteran hunters. Its agility, damage output, and defensive guarding capabilities make it effective in diverse hunting scenarios. It's equally adept at escaping perilous situations and launching aggressive attacks.
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 unleashes 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. 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 | Evade monster attacks during combos. Press Triangle/Y during a Backstep for Perfect Rush (a multi-hit attack 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 Counter Slash. |
| R2/RT + Triangle/Y | Sliding Swipe | Easily performed attack for quickly closing the distance to your target. |
| R2/RT + Square/X | Use Item | Use items while your weapon is drawn. |
| 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 hunters prioritizing both damage and evasion, mastering these combos is key.
Lateral Slash Combo
This combo maximizes damage output. 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).
Shield Bash Combo
Ideal for stunning targets, this combo starts with Shield Attack (forward analog stick + Circle/B), followed by two more Circle/B presses, culminating in a Guard Slash (R2/RT + Circle/B). Target the monster's head for optimal effectiveness.
Perfect Rush Combo
The most powerful Sword and Shield combo. Begin with any attack, then use Backstep (push back analog stick + Circle/B), followed by Leaping Slash (Triangle/Y), Perfect Rush (Triangle/Y), Scaling Slash (Triangle/Y), and Falling Bash (Circle/B). Precise timing is crucial for maximizing damage; watch for the hunter to flash red before executing the next command.
Related: How to Capture Monsters in Monster Hunter Wild
Sword and Shield Tips
Combining blade and shield with swift movements enhances your combat prowess.
Vary Your Attacks
Utilize both fast sword attacks (building elemental damage) and shield attacks (inflicting stun damage) to expedite monster takedowns.
Dodging and Guarding
Master Perfect Guards to negate damage and Power Clashes to knock back monsters. Employ Backstep for evasion and immediate counterattacks.
Focus Strikes
Exploit Focus Strikes on wounded monsters, following up with either Falling Slash (for multiple hits) or Upswing Bash (for increased stun damage).
Item Usage
Leverage the ability to use items while your weapon is drawn to maintain combat pressure and quickly heal or support allies.
This comprehensive guide covers essential Sword and Shield techniques in Monster Hunter Wilds. For further game assistance, explore The Escapist.
Monster Hunter Wilds is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.
