Mastering the art of balance is crucial in *Monster Hunter Wilds*, where every piece of equipment, from armor to Talismans, involves strategic trade-offs. However, the Sword and Shield offers exceptional versatility in combat. Combining offensive and defensive capabilities, this weapon is a reliable choice for both novice and veteran hunters alike. Let's explore how to maximize its potential.
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The Sword and Shield's blend of mobility and damage, coupled with its robust guarding capabilities, makes it effective in diverse hunting scenarios. Whether you're escaping a perilous situation or launching a decisive attack, this weapon consistently 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 unleashes 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 | Avoid 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 high jump follows a Charged Slash after a Backstep. Perform aerial attacks like Jumping Slash (Triangle/Y) or Falling Bash (Circle/B) while airborne. |
| 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 | Easily performed attack for quickly closing the distance to your target. |
| R2/RT + Square/X | Use Item | Use items while your weapon is unsheathed. |
| L2/LT + R1/RB | Focus Strike: Vital Stab | Effective stabbing attack against wounds. After hitting wounds or weak points, 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
Begin with Lateral Slash (Circle/B), followed by Return Stroke (Circle/B), Spinning Rising Slash (Circle/B), Spinning Reaper (Triangle/Y + Circle/B), and finally Charged Chop (Hold Triangle/Y + Circle/B). This rapid combo delivers significant damage without prolonged vulnerability.
Shield Bash Combo
Ideal for stunning targets, this combo starts with a Shield Attack (forward analog stick + Circle/B), followed by two more Circle/B presses, culminating in a Guard Slash (R2/RT + Circle/B). Aim for the monster's head for maximum effectiveness.
Perfect Rush Combo
The most potent Sword and Shield combo. Initiate with any attack, then 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 (watch for the red flash) maximizes damage output.
Related: How to Capture Monsters in Monster Hunter Wild
Sword and Shield Tips
Enhance your Sword and Shield proficiency with these strategies:
Vary Your Attacks
Combine fast sword attacks (building elemental damage) with strategic shield attacks (for stunning) to optimize your damage output.
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 Strikes against open wounds, following up with either Falling Slash (for multiple hits) or Upswing Bash (for increased stun).
Item Usage
Utilize the ability to use items while your weapon is drawn to maintain offensive pressure and quickly recover.
This comprehensive guide covers the essentials of Sword and Shield combat in Monster Hunter Wilds. For more gaming insights, explore The Escapist.
Monster Hunter Wilds is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.
