In *Monster Hunter Wilds*, finding the right balance between offense and defense can be challenging, given the trade-offs associated with armor and Talismans. However, the Sword and Shield stands out as a versatile weapon that offers both. Here’s how you can maximize its potential in the game.
Sword and Shield in Monster Hunter Wilds
The Sword and Shield is an excellent choice for both beginners and seasoned hunters in *Monster Hunter Wilds*. Its combination of mobility, damage output, and defensive capabilities makes it adaptable to various combat situations. Whether you're dodging through a monster's attack or guarding against a heavy hit, this weapon has you covered.
All Moves
| Command | Move | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Triangle/Y | Standard Attack | A basic sword attack that can be chained into a 4-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 that deals stun damage. Press Circle/B alone for a powerful Lateral Slash. |
| Triangle/Y + Circle/B | Advancing Slash | An upward slash performed while moving forward. Utilize it while sliding or near a ledge for terrain-specific attacks. |
| Triangle/Y + Circle/B (During Combo) | Roundslash | A wide-area slash allowing quick directional changes. Chain it from specific attacks to unleash the powerful Spinning Reaper. |
| Holding down Triangle/Y + Circle/B (During Combo) | Charged Chop | A leaping attack that deals multiple hits if it strikes a monster's soft spot. 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 when targeting the head. |
| Push back analog stick + Circle/B (During Combo) | Backstep | Avoid monster attacks during combos. Press Triangle/Y during Backstep for Perfect Rush, a multi-hit attack that increases damage when the sword flashes. |
| Circle/B During Backstep | Charged Slash | Jump high after a Backstep with a Charged Slash. Follow up with aerial attacks like Jumping Slash (Triangle/Y) or Falling Bash (Circle/B). |
| Hold down R2/RT | Guard | Protect yourself with the shield. A well-timed guard results in a Perfect Guard, which can be followed by a quick Counter Slash (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, follow up with Falling Slash (Triangle/Y) or Upswing Bash (Circle/B). |
Combos
Image Source: Capcom via The Escapist
For players looking to maximize damage while staying elusive, here are key Sword and Shield combos to master:
Lateral Slash Combo
Start with Lateral Slash (Circle/B), followed by Return Stroke (Circle/B), Spinning Rising Slash (Circle/B), then transition into Spinning Reaper (Triangle/Y + Circle/B), and finish with Charged Chop (Hold Triangle/Y + Circle/B). This combo is quick and powerful, allowing you to deal significant damage without committing for too long.
Shield Bash Combo
To knock down your target, initiate with a Shield Attack (Forward on analog stick + Circle/B), followed by two more sets of Circle/B, and conclude with a Guard Slash (R2/RT + Circle/B). This combo is most effective when targeting the head of a monster, often resulting in a knockdown after a few repetitions.
Perfect Rush Combo
The most potent combo for the Sword and Shield, the Perfect Rush, should be your primary attack sequence. Begin with any attack, then execute Backstep (Push back analog stick + Circle/B), follow with Leaping Slash (Triangle/Y), and transition into Perfect Rush (Triangle/Y), then Scaling Slash (Triangle/Y), and finish with Falling Bash (Circle/B). Timing is crucial; watch for the red flash on your hunter to maximize damage.
Related: How to Capture Monsters in Monster Hunter Wild
Sword and Shield Tips
Image Source: Capcom via The Escapist
Utilize the Sword and Shield's versatility with these tips:
Vary Your Attacks
To expedite the hunt, alternate between fast sword attacks to build elemental damage and shield attacks to inflict stun damage. This strategy can quickly topple your target.
Dodging and Guarding
In defensive situations, mastering Perfect Guards and Backsteps is crucial. Perfect Guards negate incoming damage, and Power Clashes can push monsters back. Backsteps help you evade attacks while setting up for immediate counterattacks. Master the timing and spacing to outmaneuver monsters effectively.
Focus Strikes
Exploit wounds on monsters with Focus Strikes. The Sword and Shield allows for two follow-up options: Falling Slash for additional hits or Upswing Bash, which can lead into 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 is invaluable for quick healing or supporting allies, allowing you to maintain relentless pressure on your target.
These are the essential details for mastering the Sword and Shield in *Monster Hunter Wilds*. For more tips and strategies, visit The Escapist.
*Monster Hunter Wilds is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.*
