In *Monster Hunter Wilds*, finding the perfect balance between offense and defense can be challenging, with every piece of gear from armor to Talismans presenting tradeoffs. However, the Sword and Shield offers a versatile solution that caters to both aspects of combat. Here’s how you can master the Sword and Shield to enhance your gameplay experience in *Monster Hunter Wilds*.
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The Sword and Shield is a reliable weapon choice in *Monster Hunter Wilds*, suitable for both beginners and experienced hunters. Its combination of mobility, damage potential, and defensive capabilities makes it an excellent tool for any combat situation.
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 advancing. Using this on a downhill slide or near a ledge triggers a terrain-specific attack. |
| Triangle/Y + Circle/B (During Combo) | Roundslash | A wide-area slash allowing quick directional changes. Chain from certain attacks to execute the powerful Spinning Reaper. |
| Holding down Triangle/Y + Circle/B (During Combo) | Charged Chop | A powerful leaping attack. Hitting a monster’s soft spot can cause multiple damage instances. Its power increases when used after specific attacks. |
| Forward on analog stick + Circle/B | Shield Attack | Bash enemies with your shield to deal stun damage, especially effective when targeting the head. |
| Push back analog stick + Circle/B (During Combo) | Backstep | Use during combos to dodge monster attacks. Press Triangle/Y during a Backstep for Perfect Rush, a multi-hit attack that easily applies elemental damage and ailments. Press Triangle/Y when the sword flashes to boost damage. |
| Circle/B During Backstep | Charged Slash | Performing a Charged Slash after a Backstep lets you leap high. Follow up in the air with a Jumping Slash (Triangle/Y) or a Falling Bash (Circle/B). |
| Hold down R2/RT | Guard | Block attacks with your shield. A well-timed Guard leads to a Perfect Guard. Follow up with Triangle/Y for a quick, powerful Counter Slash. |
| R2/RT + Triangle/Y | Sliding Swipe | An easy-to-execute attack that helps close the distance to your target quickly. |
| R2/RT + Square/X | Use Item | Allows the use of certain items while your weapon is drawn. |
| L2/LT + R1/RB | Focus Strike: Vital Stab | A stabbing attack effective against wounds. After hitting, press Triangle/Y for a Falling Slash or Circle/B for an Upswing Bash. |
Combos
For those aiming to maximize damage while staying agile, mastering these Sword and Shield combos is crucial.
Lateral Slash Combo
Start 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 quick and potent combo maximizes damage without leaving you vulnerable for long.
Shield Bash Combo
To knock down your target, initiate the Shield Attack combo. Move the analog stick forward and press Circle/B, then continue with two more sets of Circle/B, and conclude with a Guard Slash (R2/RT + Circle/B). This combo is particularly effective when targeting a monster’s head and can topple most monsters with repeated use.
Perfect Rush Combo
The most powerful Sword and Shield combo, the Perfect Rush, should be your primary offensive strategy. 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 key; watch for your hunter to flash red for enhanced damage during Backstep, Leaping Slash, and Perfect Rush.
Related: How to Capture Monsters in Monster Hunter Wild
Sword and Shield Tips
Leverage the Sword and Shield’s versatility with these strategic tips:
Vary Your Attacks
To efficiently bring down monsters, alternate between fast sword attacks to build elemental damage and shield attacks to inflict stun damage when opportunities arise. This mix can quickly topple your target.
Dodging and Guarding
When defense is crucial, master the timing of your Guards and Backsteps. Perfect Guards can negate incoming damage, while Power Clashes offer a chance to knock back the monster. Use Backsteps to evade and set up immediate counterattacks. Understanding spacing and timing is essential for effective combat.
Focus Strikes
As you inflict more wounds, utilize Focus Strikes to exploit these vulnerabilities. With the Sword and Shield, you can follow up with either a Falling Slash for additional hits or an Upswing Bash, which can be chained into a Falling Bash to increase stun damage.
Item Usage
A unique advantage for Sword and Shield users is the ability to use items without sheathing your weapon. This feature allows for quick recovery and support, keeping the pressure on your target and aiding your team more effectively.
These insights will help you wield the Sword and Shield effectively in *Monster Hunter Wilds*. For more tips and strategies, be sure to check out The Escapist.
*Monster Hunter Wilds is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.*
