Mastering Sword and Shield in Monster Hunter Wilds: Moves and Combos Guide
Finding the perfect balance in *Monster Hunter Wilds* can be challenging, given the trade-offs involved with armor, Talismans, and other gear. However, when it comes to combat, the Sword and Shield stands out as a versatile weapon that excels in both offense and defense. Here’s how you can 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 both beginners and seasoned hunters alike. It offers a blend of mobility, damage output, and defensive capabilities, making it suitable for any combat situation. Whether you're dodging attacks or launching a swift counter, the Sword and Shield can get you out of trouble and right back into the action.
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 during the combo using the analog stick. |
| Circle/B | Special Attack | Use the analog stick with Circle/B for a Shield Attack that causes stun damage. Press Circle/B alone for a powerful Lateral Slash. |
| Triangle/Y + Circle/B | Advancing Slash | An upward slash while moving forward. Using it while sliding downhill or towards a ledge triggers a terrain-specific attack. |
| Triangle/Y + Circle/B (During Combo) | Roundslash | A wide-area slash allowing quick directional changes. Chain it from certain attacks to execute the potent Spinning Reaper. |
| Holding down Triangle/Y + Circle/B (During Combo) | Charged Chop | A powerful leap attack that inflicts multiple hits if it strikes a monster's soft spot. Its power increases when used after specific attacks. |
| Forward on analog stick + Circle/B | Shield Attack | Use the shield to bash into 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. Follow with Triangle/Y for a Perfect Rush, a multi-hit attack that boosts elemental damage and ailments. Press Triangle/Y when the sword flashes to amplify damage. |
| Circle/B During Backstep | Charged Slash | After a Backstep, a Charged Slash lets you jump high. In the air, follow up with a Jumping Slash (Triangle/Y) or a Falling Bash (Circle/B). |
| Hold down R2/RT | Guard | Shield against attacks. A well-timed guard results in a Perfect Guard. After a Perfect Guard, press Triangle/Y for a swift and strong Counter Slash. |
| R2/RT + Triangle/Y | Sliding Swipe | A quick attack to close the distance to 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 a wound or weak point, 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 key Sword and Shield 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 quick, powerful hits without committing you for long periods.
Shield Bash Combo
To knock down your target, initiate with a Shield Attack by pressing forward on the analog stick and Circle/B, followed by two more Circle/B inputs, and conclude with a Guard Slash (R2/RT + Circle/B). This is most effective when targeting the monster's head, capable of knocking down most monsters after a few repetitions.
Perfect Rush Combo
The most potent combo for the Sword and Shield, the Perfect Rush should be your go-to. 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 executing each move to maximize damage.
Related: How to Capture Monsters in Monster Hunter Wild
Sword and Shield Tips
To enhance your combat effectiveness with the Sword and Shield, consider these tips:
Vary Your Attacks
Utilize both fast sword attacks to build elemental damage and shield attacks to inflict stun damage. This versatility allows you to adapt quickly and bring down monsters more efficiently.
Dodging and Guarding
Mastering the timing for Perfect Guards and Backsteps can significantly reduce damage taken. Perfect Guards can negate incoming attacks, while Backsteps position you for immediate counterattacks. Practice spacing and timing to stay safe and strike back effectively.
Focus Strikes
Exploit monster wounds with Focus Strikes. Unlike other weapons, the Sword and Shield allows follow-up attacks with either a Falling Slash for additional hits or an Upswing Bash to increase stun damage, which can then be chained into a Falling Bash.
Item Usage
A unique advantage of the Sword and Shield is the ability to use items without sheathing your weapon. This allows for quicker recovery and support, keeping you in the fight longer and maintaining pressure on your foes.
With these strategies and tips, you're well-equipped to master the Sword and Shield in *Monster Hunter Wilds*. For more tips and guides, be sure to visit The Escapist.
*Monster Hunter Wilds is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.*
