Mastering the art of balance is crucial in Monster Hunter Wilds, where every piece of equipment, from armor to Talismans, presents its own set of trade-offs. However, the Sword and Shield offers remarkable versatility in combat. This guide explores how to maximize its offensive and defensive capabilities to become a truly formidable hunter.
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----------------------------------------The Sword and Shield is a reliable weapon for both novice and veteran hunters. Its blend of mobility, damage output, and defensive guarding capabilities makes it effective in diverse combat scenarios. Whether you're escaping danger or launching an aggressive assault, this weapon delivers.
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. Hitting a monster's weak point delivers multiple instances of damage. Power increases after certain attacks. |
| Forward on analog stick + Circle/B | Shield Attack | Bash enemies with your shield, dealing stun damage when hitting 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 Charged Slash after a Backstep allows for a high jump, followed by aerial attacks like Jumping Slash (Triangle/Y) or Falling Bash (Circle/B). |
| Hold down R2/RT | Guard | Guard against attacks. A perfectly timed guard results in a Perfect Guard. Press Triangle/Y after a Perfect Guard for a powerful Counter Slash. |
| R2/RT + Triangle/Y | Sliding Swipe | A quick attack for closing distance. |
| 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 a wound or weak point, 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 combines Lateral Slash (Circle/B), Return Stroke (Circle/B), Spinning Rising Slash (Circle/B), Spinning Reaper (Triangle/Y + Circle/B), and Charged Chop (Hold Triangle/Y + Circle/B) for significant damage without extended vulnerability.
Shield Bash Combo
Ideal for toppling monsters, this combo uses Shield Attack (Forward analog stick + Circle/B) (repeated twice) followed by Guard Slash (R2/RT + Circle/B), targeting the monster's head for maximum effectiveness.
Perfect Rush Combo
The most powerful combo. Begin with any attack, then use Backstep (Push back analog stick + Circle/B), Leaping Slash (Triangle/Y), Perfect Rush (Triangle/Y), Scaling Slash (Triangle/Y), and Falling Bash (Circle/B). Precise timing during Backstep, Leaping Slash, and Perfect Rush (indicated by a red flash) maximizes damage output.
Related: How to Capture Monsters in Monster Hunter Wild
Sword and Shield Tips
Master these techniques for enhanced combat efficiency:
Vary Your Attacks
Combine fast sword attacks (building elemental damage) with strategic shield attacks (for stun) to optimize damage and control.
Dodging and Guarding
Master Perfect Guards to negate damage and utilize Power Clashes to knock back monsters. Backstep provides evasion and sets up counterattacks.
Focus Strikes
Exploit Focus Strike's effectiveness against wounds, following up with either Falling Slash (for multiple hits) or Upswing Bash (for increased stun).
Item Usage
Utilize the ability to use items with your weapon drawn for faster healing and support.
This comprehensive guide covers the essentials of Sword and Shield combat in Monster Hunter Wilds. For more gaming tips and guides, explore The Escapist.
Monster Hunter Wilds is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.
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