In the challenging world of *Monster Hunter Wilds*, where every piece of gear from armor to Talismans involves trade-offs, finding the right balance can be tough. However, the Sword and Shield stands out as a versatile weapon, offering both offensive and defensive capabilities. 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. Its blend of mobility, damage, and defensive options makes it a versatile tool in any hunter's arsenal, perfect for navigating the diverse combat scenarios you’ll encounter.
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 positioning. |
| Circle/B | Special Attack | Combine the analog stick with Circle/B to execute a Shield Attack that inflicts stun damage. Press Circle/B for a powerful Lateral Slash. |
| Triangle/Y + Circle/B | Advancing Slash | An upward slash performed while moving forward. Use it while sliding downhill or towards a ledge for a terrain-specific attack. |
| Triangle/Y + Circle/B (During Combo) | Roundslash | A wide-area slash that allows quick directional changes. Chain it from certain attacks to unleash 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 deal multiple hits. The attack's power increases if used after specific moves. |
| Forward on analog stick + Circle/B | Shield Attack | Use the shield to bash enemies, dealing stun damage, especially effective when targeting the head. |
| Push back analog stick + Circle/B (During Combo) | Backstep | Use during combos to evade monster attacks. Follow with Triangle/Y for Perfect Rush, a multi-hit attack that can inflict elemental damage and ailments. Press Triangle/Y when the sword flashes to boost damage. |
| Circle/B During Backstep | Charged Slash | Jump high after a Backstep with Charged Slash. While airborne, follow up with a Jumping Slash (Triangle/Y) or Falling Bash (Circle/B). |
| Hold down R2/RT | Guard | Shield against attacks. A timely Guard results in a Perfect Guard. Follow with Triangle/Y for a quick and powerful Counter Slash. |
| R2/RT + Triangle/Y | Sliding Swipe | An easy-to-execute attack that closes the distance to your target swiftly. |
| R2/RT + Square/X | Use Item | Utilize certain items without sheathing your weapon. |
| L2/LT + R1/RB | Focus Strike: Vital Stab | A stabbing attack effective against wounds. After hitting wounds or weak points, press Triangle/Y for a Falling Slash or Circle/B for an Upswing Bash. |
Combos
Image Source: Capcom via The Escapist
For those aiming to deal significant damage while staying agile, here are essential Sword and Shield combos to master:
Lateral Slash Combo
The Lateral Slash combo sets the stage for increased damage when combined with the Spinning Reaper and Charged Chop. Start with Lateral Slash (Circle/B), then Return Stroke (Circle/B), Spinning Rising Slash (Circle/B), Spinning Reaper (Triangle/Y + Circle/B), and finish with Charged Chop (Hold Triangle/Y + Circle/B). This combo delivers substantial damage quickly, without leaving you vulnerable for long.
Shield Bash Combo
To knock down your target, utilize the Shield Attack combo. Begin by moving forward with the analog stick and pressing Circle/B, followed by two more Circle/B inputs, and conclude with a Guard Slash (R2/RT + Circle/B). This combo is most effective when targeting a monster's head, often resulting in a knockdown after a few repetitions.
Perfect Rush Combo
The Perfect Rush combo is the most potent in the Sword and Shield arsenal and should be your go-to offensive strategy. Begin with any attack, then execute Backstep (Push back analog stick + Circle/B), Leaping Slash (Triangle/Y), Perfect Rush (Triangle/Y), Scaling Slash (Triangle/Y), and conclude with Falling Bash (Circle/B). Timing is crucial; watch for the red flash on your hunter to maximize damage output.
Sword and Shield Tips
Image Source: Capcom via The Escapist
Here are some tips to enhance your effectiveness with the Sword and Shield:
Vary Your Attacks
To quickly defeat monsters, alternate between fast sword attacks to build elemental damage and shield attacks to inflict stun damage, especially when opportunities arise.
Dodging and Guarding
When defense is critical, utilize Guarding and Backstep. Master the timing for Perfect Guards to nullify damage and use Power Clashes to repel monsters. Backstep helps you avoid attacks while setting up for a swift counterattack. Practice spacing and timing to turn monster attacks against them.
Focus Strikes
As you inflict more wounds on monsters, use the Focus Strike to exploit these vulnerabilities. Unlike other weapons, the Sword and Shield allows follow-up with either a Falling Slash for multiple hits or an Upswing Bash that can be chained into a Falling Bash for increased stun damage.
Item Usage
A unique advantage of the Sword and Shield is the ability to use items without sheathing your weapon. This feature allows for rapid healing or support for teammates, keeping the pressure on the monster continuously.
These tips and strategies will help you master the Sword and Shield in *Monster Hunter Wilds*. For more guidance, be sure to check out The Escapist for additional resources.
*Monster Hunter Wilds is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.*
