In the expansive world of *Monster Hunter Wilds*, the Hunting Horn stands out as a unique weapon that combines the thrill of combat with the artistry of music. For those who master its melodies, the Hunting Horn offers powerful buffs and devastating attacks. Here’s your guide to unlocking the full potential of the Hunting Horn in *Monster Hunter Wilds*.
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The Hunting Horn is not just a weapon; it's a versatile tool that enhances your combat capabilities and those of your allies through musical buffs. By mastering different melodies, you can turn the tide of battle in your favor.
All Moves
| Command | Move | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Triangle/Y | Left Swing | A basic attack that produces Note 1 on the musical staff. Use it with a direction to perform a Forward Smash. |
| Circle/B | Right Swing | A basic attack that produces Note 2 on the musical staff. |
| Analog Direction + Circle/B | Flourish | An attack that produces Note 2 on the musical staff. Pressing Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B during the attack will allow you to produce another note. |
| Triangle/Y + Circle/B | Backwards Strike | A basic attack that produces Note 3 on the musical staff. It allows hunters to easily hit a target behind them, and will move hunters backwards as they attack. |
| Analog Direction + Triangle/Y + Circle/B | Overhead Smash | An attack that produces Note 3 on the musical staff. Pressing Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B during the attack will allow you to produce another note. |
| Backwards Analog Direction + Triangle/Y or Circle/B or Triangle/Y + Circle/B during combo | Hilt Stab | A quick attack that produces a note on the musical staff. The attack can be used after a number of different attacks, with Triangle/Y, Circle/B, and Triangle/Y + Circle/B producing their own note. |
| R2/RT | Perform | An attack that activates Melody Effect. Stocked melodies will be performed in order, but a specific melody can be selected using R2/RT + Triangle/Y or Circle/B. While performing multiple melodies, press R2/RT for a powerful Performance Beat. Then play an Encore (Triangle/Y + Circle/B) to boost and extend Melody Effects. The power of a Performance Beat and Encore will increase if you time them with the activation of Melody Effects. |
| R2/RT + Cross/A | Echo Bubble | A special attack that produces an Echo Bubble. The type of Echo Bubble created is determined by the Hunting Horn equipped. When creating an Echo Bubble, players can produce up to three notes with either Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B. |
| R2/RT + Triangle/Y + Circle/B with Melody Stocked | Special Performance | Unlike normal performances, Special Performances will play the unique Melody Effect associated with the Hunting Horn equipped. Once stocked, this melody will not be overwritten by new melodies. |
| L2/LT + R1/RB | Focus Strike: Reverb | A Performance attack effective against wounds. Players can produce up to five notes with either Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B while performing. Playing the notes at the right time will deal additional damage. |
Combos
Image Source: Capcom via The Escapist
The Hunting Horn is not only a musical instrument but also a formidable blunt weapon. Here are some essential combos to integrate into your gameplay:
Overhead Smash Combo
A staple in any Hunting Horn user's arsenal, this combo is achieved by moving forward with the analog stick and pressing Triangle/Y + Circle/B twice. This sequence executes the Overhead Smash and its follow-up attack, which can stun monsters if executed correctly.
Performance Combo
After stacking your desired songs, unleash them with this combo. Move forward with the analog stick, press R2/RT to initiate Perform, and follow up with Triangle/Y + Circle/B for an Encore to enhance and prolong your Melody Effects.
Echo Bubble Combo
Leverage the Hunting Horn's unique Echo Bubble mechanic, especially against incapacitated foes. Start with the Echo Bubble (Cross/A + R2/RT), followed by Triangle/Y, Circle/B, Circle/B for the Echo Wave (Blunt), then R2/RT for Perform, and conclude with an Encore using Triangle/Y + Circle/B.
Related: How to Capture Monsters in Monster Hunter Wild
Hunting Horn Tips
Image Source: Capcom via The Escapist
To truly excel with the Hunting Horn, you must master the timing of buffs and optimize your damage output, particularly in cooperative play.
All About the Notes
Understanding and manipulating notes is crucial. Each Hunting Horn has unique songs requiring specific note combinations. Keep an eye on the top right corner of your screen to see which command produces the needed note. Moves like Flourish and Overhead Smash allow for an additional note during the second attack, facilitating song creation. Even while riding your Seikret, you can play notes to form melodies.
Buff City
Once familiar with notes, stack them to create songs. You can perform multiple songs consecutively for various buffs. Choose buffs that suit your current situation, and remember that performing them takes time.
Echo Chamber
Maximize the use of Echo Bubbles to create an advantageous battlefield. Echo Bubbles provide three additional note inputs and amplify damage for subsequent attacks. The increased Evasion and Movement Speed within the Echo Bubble also enhance your survivability, especially crucial in High Rank hunts.
Self-Improvement is Key
The Self-Improvement skill, available in all Hunting Horns, should be maintained at least at level 2 for a 20% attack boost. This significantly increases your damage potential and reduces the time needed to defeat monsters.
Always be Prepared With Special Performances
Always keep a Special Performance ready. For example, the Offset Melody can be stocked without being overwritten until the perfect moment. When a monster attacks, use the Special Performance command (R2/RT + Triangle/Y + Circle/B), hold the stance, and release just as the monster strikes to knock it down.
That’s everything you need to know about mastering the Hunting Horn in *Monster Hunter Wilds*. For more tips and guides, be sure to explore The Escapist.
*Monster Hunter Wilds is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.*
