In the vibrant world of *Monster Hunter Wilds*, the Hunting Horn stands out as a unique and powerful weapon. While initially unconventional, its ability to unleash a symphony of buffs for yourself and allies makes it a force to be reckoned with. Master the Hunting Horn and you'll command the battlefield with strategic melodies and devastating attacks.
Recommended Videos Hunting Horn in Monster Hunter Wilds
All Hunting Horn Moves
| Command | Move | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Triangle/Y | Left Swing | A basic attack producing Note 1. Use with a directional input for a Forward Smash. |
| Circle/B | Right Swing | A basic attack producing Note 2. |
| Analog Direction + Circle/B | Flourish | Produces Note 2. Additional notes can be added during the attack using Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B. |
| Triangle/Y + Circle/B | Backwards Strike | Produces Note 3. Attacks targets behind you and moves you backward. |
| Analog Direction + Triangle/Y + Circle/B | Overhead Smash | Produces Note 3. Additional notes can be added during the attack using Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B. |
| Backwards Analog Direction + Triangle/Y or Circle/B or Triangle/Y + Circle/B during combo | Hilt Stab | A quick attack producing a note. The specific note depends on the button combination used (Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B). |
| R2/RT | Perform | Activates Melody Effects. Stored melodies play in order, or select a specific melody with R2/RT + Triangle/Y or Circle/B. A powerful Performance Beat can be executed during multiple melodies with R2/RT, followed by an Encore (Triangle/Y + Circle/B) to boost and extend effects. Timing these with Melody Effect activation increases their power. |
| R2/RT + Cross/A | Echo Bubble | Creates an Echo Bubble, type determined by the equipped Hunting Horn. Up to three notes can be added using Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B. |
| R2/RT + Triangle/Y + Circle/B with Melody Stocked | Special Performance | Plays the unique Melody Effect of the equipped Hunting Horn. Once stocked, this melody isn't overwritten. |
| L2/LT + R1/RB | Focus Strike: Reverb | A Performance attack effective against wounds. Up to five notes can be added using Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B. Proper timing increases damage. |
Hunting Horn Combos
Beyond its musical prowess, the Hunting Horn packs a punch as a blunt weapon. Here are some effective combos:
Overhead Smash Combo
A reliable combo: Move forward and press Triangle/Y + Circle/B twice for the Overhead Smash and follow-up attack. Consistent use can stun monsters.
Performance Combo
After stacking melodies, use this combo for enhanced damage: Move forward, press R2/RT to initiate Perform, then Triangle/Y + Circle/B for an Encore to boost and extend Melody Effects.
Echo Bubble Combo
Ideal for incapacitated enemies: Start with Echo Bubble (Cross/A + R2/RT), follow with Triangle/Y, Circle/B, Circle/B for Echo Wave (Blunt), then R2/RT for Perform and an Encore (Triangle/Y + Circle/B).
Hunting Horn Tips and Strategies
Mastering the Hunting Horn requires skillful buff management and precise timing for optimal damage output, especially in cooperative hunts.
Note Mastery
Familiarize yourself with note combinations for each Hunting Horn's songs. The top-right corner of the screen shows command-note correspondence. Flourish and Overhead Smash allow adding extra notes. You can even play notes while riding your Seikret.
Buff Optimization
Stack songs for multiple buffs, tailoring them to the current situation. Remember that performances take time.
Echo Bubble Usage
Maximize Echo Bubble use for battlefield advantage. It provides three extra note inputs and amplifies damage. Increased evasion and movement speed within the bubble enhance survivability, particularly in High Rank hunts.
Self-Improvement Skill
Prioritize the Self-Improvement skill to at least level 2 for a 20% attack boost, increasing damage potential.
Special Performance Readiness
Always have a Special Performance ready, like the Offset Melody, to counter monster attacks. Use the Special Performance command (R2/RT + Triangle/Y + Circle/B) and hold it until the monster attacks to knock it down.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of mastering the Hunting Horn in Monster Hunter Wilds. Check The Escapist for more game guides.
Monster Hunter Wilds is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.
