In the dynamic world of *Monster Hunter Wilds*, finding the right balance between offense and defense is crucial, especially when it comes to choosing your weapon. The Sword and Shield stands out as a versatile choice, offering both protective capabilities and offensive prowess. 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 the go-to weapon for hunters of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned veterans. Its unique blend of mobility, damage output, and defensive capabilities makes it an excellent choice for any encounter. Whether you're dodging through the chaos of battle or standing firm to guard against a monster's attack, the Sword and Shield offers the flexibility needed to adapt to any situation.
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 mid-combo to adjust your positioning. |
| Circle/B | Special Attack | Combine the analog stick with Circle/B for 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 advancing forward. Using Advancing Slash while sliding downhill or towards a ledge triggers a terrain-specific attack. |
| Triangle/Y + Circle/B (During Combo) | Roundslash | A wide-area slashing attack 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 that can hit multiple times when targeting a monster's soft spots. Its power increases when used after certain attacks. |
| Forward on analog stick + Circle/B | Shield Attack | Use the shield to bash enemies, dealing stun damage, especially effective when targeting the enemy's head. |
| Push back analog stick + Circle/B (During Combo) | Backstep | Backstep during combos to evade monster attacks. Follow with Triangle/Y during a Backstep for Perfect Rush, a multi-hit attack that inflicts elemental damage and ailments. Press Triangle/Y when the sword flashes to boost damage. |
| Circle/B During Backstep | Charged Slash | Landing a Charged Slash after a Backstep enables a high jump. Follow up with aerial attacks like Jumping Slash (Triangle/Y) or Falling Bash (Circle/B). |
| Hold down R2/RT | Guard | Guard against attacks with your shield. A well-timed Perfect Guard leads to a quick and powerful Counter Slash with Triangle/Y. |
| R2/RT + Triangle/Y | Sliding Swipe | An easy-to-execute attack that closes the distance to your target quickly. |
| R2/RT + Square/X | Use Item | Use certain items without sheathing your weapon. |
| L2/LT + R1/RB | Focus Strike: Vital Stab | A stabbing attack effective against wounds. After hitting, press Triangle/Y for a Falling Slash or Circle/B for an Upswing Bash. |
Combos
Image Source: Capcom via The Escapist
For players aiming to deal significant damage while maintaining agility, mastering these Sword and Shield combos is essential.
Lateral Slash Combo
Begin with a Lateral Slash (Circle/B), followed by Return Stroke (Circle/B), then Spinning Rising Slash (Circle/B). Transition into Spinning Reaper (Triangle/Y + Circle/B) and finish with a Charged Chop (Hold Triangle/Y + Circle/B). This combo delivers high damage quickly without leaving you vulnerable for long.
Shield Bash Combo
To knock down your target, initiate the Shield Attack combo by pressing forward on the analog stick and Circle/B, followed by two more Circle/B presses, and conclude with a Guard Slash (R2/RT + Circle/B). Aim for the monster's head to maximize the chance of knocking it down.
Perfect Rush Combo
The Perfect Rush combo is the most potent for the Sword and Shield. Start with any attack, then Backstep (Push back analog stick + Circle/B), followed by Leaping Slash (Triangle/Y) into Perfect Rush (Triangle/Y), Scaling Slash (Triangle/Y), and finish with Falling Bash (Circle/B). Timing is key; watch for the hunter to flash red before executing each move to maximize damage.
Related: How to Capture Monsters in Monster Hunter Wilds
Sword and Shield Tips
Image Source: Capcom via The Escapist
To truly harness the Sword and Shield's potential, consider these strategic tips:
Vary Your Attacks
Mix fast sword attacks to build elemental damage with shield attacks for stun damage. This combination can quickly bring down even the toughest monsters.
Dodging and Guarding
Master the art of Perfect Guards and Backsteps to minimize damage and set up counterattacks. Timing is crucial for effective defense and immediate retaliation.
Focus Strikes
Exploit monster wounds with Focus Strikes, followed by either Falling Slash for additional hits or Upswing Bash for increased stun damage, which can be chained into Falling Bash.
Item Usage
Take advantage of the Sword and Shield's unique ability to use items without sheathing your weapon. This feature allows you to heal, support allies, and maintain pressure on the monster.
By following these strategies and mastering the Sword and Shield's versatile moveset, you'll become a formidable hunter in *Monster Hunter Wilds*. For more tips and guides, be sure to check out The Escapist.
*Monster Hunter Wilds is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.*
