Finding balance in *Monster Hunter Wilds* can be challenging, with every piece of gear from armor to Talismans requiring strategic trade-offs. However, when it comes to combat versatility, the Sword and Shield stands out as a reliable choice. Offering both offensive prowess and defensive capabilities, here's how to maximize your effectiveness with the Sword and Shield in *Monster Hunter Wilds*.
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The Sword and Shield is an excellent weapon for both beginners and seasoned hunters alike, thanks to its versatility and ease of use. Its mobility and damage output, combined with the ability to block attacks, make it a perfect weapon for any scenario you might encounter in the wild.
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 to adjust your position mid-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 | An upward slash that propels you forward. Utilize this move when sliding downhill or near a ledge for a terrain-specific attack. |
| Triangle/Y + Circle/B (During Combo) | Roundslash | A wide-area slashing attack that allows quick directional changes. Chain it with certain attacks to execute the powerful Spinning Reaper. |
| Holding down Triangle/Y + Circle/B (During Combo) | Charged Chop | A leaping attack that inflicts multiple hits when striking a monster's soft spot. Its power increases when used after specific attacks. |
| Forward on analog stick + Circle/B | Shield Attack | Use your shield to bash enemies, particularly effective when targeting the head to deal stun damage. |
| Push back analog stick + Circle/B (During Combo) | Backstep | Use Backstep to dodge during combos. Follow up with Triangle/Y for the Perfect Rush, a multi-hit attack that excels in applying elemental damage and ailments. Press Triangle/Y when the sword flashes to boost damage. |
| Circle/B During Backstep | Charged Slash | A Charged Slash post-Backstep enables a high jump. While airborne, execute a Jumping Slash (Triangle/Y) or a Falling Bash (Circle/B). |
| Hold down R2/RT | Guard | Block attacks with your shield. Timing your Guard perfectly results in a Perfect Guard. Follow up with Triangle/Y for a swift Counter Slash. |
| R2/RT + Triangle/Y | Sliding Swipe | Perform this attack to swiftly close the gap between you and your target. |
| R2/RT + Square/X | Use Item | Utilize certain items while your weapon remains unsheathed. |
| L2/LT + R1/RB | Focus Strike: Vital Stab | A stabbing attack that's 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 maintaining agility, here are crucial Sword and Shield combos to master.
Lateral Slash Combo
Begin with a Lateral Slash (Circle/B), followed by a Return Stroke (Circle/B), then a Spinning Rising Slash (Circle/B), leading into a Spinning Reaper (Triangle/Y + Circle/B), and finally a Charged Chop (Hold Triangle/Y + Circle/B). This combo delivers significant damage quickly and keeps you mobile.
Shield Bash Combo
To knock down your target, initiate the Shield Attack combo by moving forward on the analog stick and pressing Circle/B. Follow up with two more Circle/B inputs, and finish with a Guard Slash (R2/RT + Circle/B). This is particularly effective when targeting a monster's head, often knocking them down after a few uses.
Perfect Rush Combo
The Perfect Rush combo is arguably the most potent for the Sword and Shield. Start with any attack, then execute a Backstep (Push back analog stick + Circle/B), followed by a Leaping Slash (Triangle/Y), then Perfect Rush (Triangle/Y), a Scaling Slash (Triangle/Y), and end with a Falling Bash (Circle/B). Timing is key; watch for the red flash on your hunter to maximize damage.
Related: How to Capture Monsters in Monster Hunter Wild
Sword and Shield Tips
Harness the power of both blade and shield, coupled with swift movements, to elevate your Sword and Shield gameplay in *Monster Hunter Wilds*.
Vary Your Attacks
To swiftly bring down your target, utilize the Sword and Shield in diverse ways. Quick sword strikes build elemental damage, while a series of shield attacks can deliver enough stun damage to topple foes.
Dodging and Guarding
When defense becomes crucial, rely on Guarding and Backstep. Mastering Perfect Guards with precise timing can negate damage, and Power Clashes provide another chance to repel monsters. Backstep not only removes you from danger but also sets you up for an immediate counterattack. Practice the spacing and timing to make monsters regret their attacks.
Focus Strikes
As you inflict more wounds on monsters, utilize Focus Strikes to capitalize on these openings. With the Sword and Shield, you have the flexibility to follow up with either a Falling Slash for additional hits or an Upswing Bash, which can be chained into a Falling Bash to enhance 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 support for allies, keeping the pressure on your targets. Leverage this mechanic to maintain relentless attacks.
That covers the essentials of wielding the Sword and Shield in *Monster Hunter Wilds*. For more tips and tricks, be sure to check out The Escapist.
*Monster Hunter Wilds is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.*
