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In *Monster Hunter Wilds*, achieving the perfect balance between offense and defense can be challenging, but the Sword and Shield offers a versatile solution. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned veteran, this weapon excels in its ability to adapt to any combat situation. 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 reliable choice for hunters looking to navigate the complexities of *Monster Hunter Wilds*. With its high mobility, strong damage output, and defensive capabilities, it's perfect for both new players and experienced hunters seeking a balanced approach to combat.
All Moves
| Command | Move | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Triangle/Y | Standard Attack | A basic sword attack that can be chained into a 4-hit combo. Adjust your positioning using the analog stick during the combo. |
| 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 | Perform an upward slash while moving forward. Use this move while sliding downhill or towards a ledge for terrain-specific attacks. |
| Triangle/Y + Circle/B (During Combo) | Roundslash | A wide-ranging slash that allows quick directional changes. Chain it from specific attacks to unleash the powerful Spinning Reaper. |
| Holding down Triangle/Y + Circle/B (During Combo) | Charged Chop | Execute a leaping attack that can deal multiple hits if you target a monster's soft spot. The attack's power increases when used after certain moves. |
| Forward on analog stick + Circle/B | Shield Attack | Bash enemies with your shield to deal stun damage, especially effective when targeting the enemy's head. |
| Push back analog stick + Circle/B (During Combo) | Backstep | Use Backstep during combos to evade monster attacks. Press Triangle/Y during a 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 | After a Backstep, land a Charged Slash to leap high into the air. Follow up with aerial attacks like Jumping Slash (Triangle/Y) or Falling Bash (Circle/B). |
| Hold down R2/RT | Guard | Block attacks with your shield. A well-timed Guard results in a Perfect Guard. Follow up with Triangle/Y for a swift and potent Counter Slash. |
| R2/RT + Triangle/Y | Sliding Swipe | Quickly close the distance to your target with this easy-to-execute attack. |
| R2/RT + Square/X | Use Item | Utilize certain items without sheathing your weapon. |
| L2/LT + R1/RB | Focus Strike: Vital Stab | Target wounds with a stabbing attack. After hitting, 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
Begin with a Lateral Slash (Circle/B), follow with a Return Stroke (Circle/B), then a Spinning Rising Slash (Circle/B). Transition into a Spinning Reaper (Triangle/Y + Circle/B) and finish with a Charged Chop (Hold Triangle/Y + Circle/B). This combo delivers high damage without locking you in place for too long.
Shield Bash Combo
To knock down your target, initiate the Shield Attack combo by moving the analog stick forward and pressing Circle/B. Follow with two more Circle/B presses, and conclude with a Guard Slash (R2/RT + Circle/B). This is particularly effective when targeting a monster's head and can knock down most monsters after a few uses.
Perfect Rush Combo
The most potent combo for the Sword and Shield, the Perfect Rush, should be your go-to strategy. Start 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 finish with a Falling Bash (Circle/B). Timing is crucial; watch for the hunter to flash red before each move to maximize damage.
Sword and Shield Tips
Leverage the Sword and Shield's versatility with these tips to enhance your combat effectiveness.
Vary Your Attacks
To expedite defeating your target, alternate between fast sword attacks to build elemental damage and shield attacks to inflict stun damage, potentially toppling the enemy.
Dodging and Guarding
When defense is paramount, utilize Guarding and Backstep. Master the timing for Perfect Guards to negate damage and use Power Clashes to push back monsters. Backstep not only evades attacks but also sets up counterattacks. Practice spacing and timing to turn monster attacks against them.
Focus Strikes
As you inflict more wounds, employ Focus Strikes to capitalize on them. Unlike other weapons, the Sword and Shield allows follow-up attacks like Falling Slash for additional hits or Upswing Bash, which can be chained into Falling Bash for increased stun damage.
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 allows for quick healing or supporting allies, maintaining pressure on the monster throughout the fight.
These are the essential strategies for mastering the Sword and Shield in *Monster Hunter Wilds*. For more tips and guides, be sure to check out The Escapist.
*Monster Hunter Wilds is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.*
