Home > News > Master Sword and Shield Techniques in Monster Hunter Wilds: Complete Moves and Combos Guide
Master Sword and Shield Techniques in Monster Hunter Wilds: Complete Moves and Combos Guide
- By Henry
- Apr 12,2025
Finding balance in *Monster Hunter Wilds* can be a daunting task, given the trade-offs associated with every piece of armor and Talisman. However, when it comes to combat, the Sword and Shield stands out as a versatile tool that balances both offense and defense. Here's how to maximize your effectiveness with the 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 combination of mobility, damage output, and the ability to guard makes it an excellent weapon for all situations. Whether you're evading danger or pressing the attack, the Sword and Shield has you covered.
All Moves
| Command | Move | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Triangle/Y | Standard Attack | A basic sword attack that can be chained for a 4-hit combo. Use the analog stick mid-combo to adjust your positioning. |
| Circle/B | Special Attack | Use the analog stick with Circle/B to perform 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 advancing forward. Using Advancing Slash while sliding downhill or towards a ledge allows a terrain-specific attack. |
| Triangle/Y + Circle/B (During Combo) | Roundslash | An attack that slashes a wide area, during which you can quickly change your direction. Chaining it from certain attacks results in the powerful Spinning Reaper. |
| Holding down Triangle/Y + Circle/B (During Combo) | Charged Chop | A powerful leaping attack. Hitting the soft spot in a monster’s hide allows multiple instances of damage. The power of the attack increases if used after certain attacks. |
| Forward on analog stick + Circle/B | Shield Attack | Use the shield to bash into enemies and deal stun damage when targeting the enemy’s head. |
| Push back analog stick + Circle/B (During Combo) | Backstep | Backstep can be used during combos to avoid monster attacks. Press Triangle/Y during a Backstep to perform Perfect Rush, a multi-hit attack that can easily afflict elemental damage and ailments. Press Triangle/Y when the sword flashes to increase damage. |
| Circle/B During Backstep | Charged Slash | Landing a Charged Slash after a Backstep allows players to jump high in the air. While airborne, you can follow up with different aerial attacks such as Jumping Slash (Triangle/Y) or a Falling Bash (Circle/B). |
| Hold down R2/RT | Guard | Guard against attacks using your shield. Guarding at the right time results in a Perfect Guard. Press Triangle/Y after a Perfect Guard to perform a quick and powerful Counter Slash. |
| R2/RT + Triangle/Y | Sliding Swipe | An attack that can be performed easily, allowing you to quickly close the distance between you and the target. |
| R2/RT + Square/X | Use Item | You can use certain items while your weapon is unsheathed. |
| L2/LT + R1/RB | Focus Strike: Vital Stab | A stabbing attack effective against wounds. After hitting the wounds or a weak point, press Triangle/Y to follow up with a Falling Slash, or Circle/B for an Upswing Bash. |
Combos
For players looking to deal significant damage while staying elusive, here are the key combos to master:
Lateral Slash Combo
Start with a Lateral Slash (Circle/B), followed by a Return Stroke (Circle/B), a Spinning Rising Slash (Circle/B), then transition into a Spinning Reaper (Triangle/Y + Circle/B), and finish with a Charged Chop (Hold Triangle/Y + Circle/B). This combo is quick and powerful, allowing you to hit enemies effectively without being locked into a long animation.
Shield Bash Combo
To knock down your target, use the Shield Attack combo. Begin by moving forward with the analog stick and pressing Circle/B, followed by two more sets of Circle/B, and finish with a Guard Slash (R2/RT + Circle/B). This combo is particularly effective when targeting a monster's head, often leading to a knockdown after a few repetitions.
Perfect Rush Combo
The Perfect Rush combo is the most powerful option available for the Sword and Shield. Begin with any attack, then initiate a Backstep (Push back analog stick + Circle/B), followed by a Leaping Slash (Triangle/Y) into Perfect Rush (Triangle/Y), a Scaling Slash (Triangle/Y), and conclude with a Falling Bash (Circle/B). Timing is crucial here; watch for the hunter to flash red before moving to the next command to maximize damage.
Sword and Shield Tips
Using both the blade and shield effectively, here are some tips to enhance your Sword and Shield gameplay:
Vary Your Attacks
To bring down the target monster quickly, mix up your attacks. Fast sword strikes build up elemental damage, while a series of shield bashes can deal significant stun damage, potentially toppling the enemy.
Dodging and Guarding
When defense is paramount, utilize Guarding and Backstep. Mastering Perfect Guards can negate incoming damage, and Power Clashes can knock monsters back. Backstep helps you evade attacks and positions you for a swift counterattack. Practice the timing and spacing to turn the tables on your foes.
Focus Strikes
As you inflict wounds on monsters, employ the Focus Strike to capitalize on these vulnerabilities. Unlike other weapons, the Sword and Shield allows for two follow-up options: a Falling Slash for additional hits or an Upswing Bash, which can be chained into a Falling Bash to increase stun damage.
Item Usage
A unique advantage for Sword and Shield users in *Monster Hunter Wilds* 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 targets.
These tips and techniques should help you master the Sword and Shield in *Monster Hunter Wilds*. For more guidance on the game, be sure to visit The Escapist.
*Monster Hunter Wilds is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.*
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