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 produce a variety of buffs for both the wielder and allies makes it a potent tool in the right hands. Mastering the Hunting Horn requires understanding its mechanics and utilizing its full potential.
Recommended Videos Hunting Horn in Monster Hunter Wilds
All Hunting Horn Moves
| Command | Move | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Triangle/Y | Left Swing | A basic attack generating Note 1. Use with a directional input for a Forward Smash. |
| Circle/B | Right Swing | A basic attack generating Note 2. |
| Analog Direction + Circle/B | Flourish | Generates 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 | Generates Note 3. Allows for attacks from behind the target, moving the hunter backward during the attack. |
| Analog Direction + Triangle/Y + Circle/B | Overhead Smash | Generates 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. Stocked melodies play sequentially, or a specific melody can be selected using R2/RT + Triangle/Y or Circle/B. A powerful Performance Beat can be executed during multiple melodies by pressing 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, the 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 during the performance. Proper timing increases damage. |
Hunting Horn Combos
Beyond its musical capabilities, the Hunting Horn delivers substantial blunt force trauma. Here are some effective combos:
Overhead Smash Combo
A fundamental combo: Move forward (analog stick) and press Triangle/Y + Circle/B twice for the Overhead Smash and follow-up attack. Consistent use can stun monsters.
Performance Combo
After stacking desired songs, initiate Perform (R2/RT), followed by Triangle/Y + Circle/B for an Encore to enhance and extend Melody Effects.
Echo Bubble Combo
Effective against incapacitated foes: Begin with Echo Bubble (Cross/A + R2/RT), followed by 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 involves skillful buff management and damage optimization, particularly in cooperative hunts.
Note Mastery
Familiarize yourself with note combinations for each Hunting Horn's songs. The top-right corner displays the required commands. Flourish and Overhead Smash allow adding extra notes during the second attack. Notes can also be played while riding a Seikret.
Buff Optimization
Stack songs for multiple buffs, tailoring them to the current situation. Remember that performances take time.
Echo Bubble Utilization
Maximize Echo Bubble usage for battlefield advantage. It provides three additional note inputs and amplifies damage. The increased evasion and movement speed within the bubble enhance survivability, especially 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 (e.g., Offset Melody). Use it defensively to counter monster attacks, triggering it just as the monster connects to knock it down.
This comprehensive guide equips you to master the Hunting Horn in Monster Hunter Wilds. For further assistance, explore The Escapist.
Monster Hunter Wilds is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.
