Mastering the balance in *Monster Hunter Wilds* can be tricky, as every piece of equipment involves strategic trade-offs. But the Sword and Shield offers exceptional versatility in combat. Its blend of offensive and defensive capabilities makes it a reliable choice for both novice and veteran hunters alike. Let's explore how to maximize its potential.
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The Sword and Shield is a dependable weapon, equally adept at escaping danger and launching attacks. Its mobility, damage output, and guarding capabilities make it effective in diverse combat situations.
All Moves
| Command | Move | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Triangle/Y | Standard Attack | A basic sword attack forming a four-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 (stun damage). Press Circle/B for a powerful Lateral Slash. |
| Triangle/Y + Circle/B | Advancing Slash | An upward slash while moving forward. Terrain-specific attacks are possible when used while sliding downhill or approaching a ledge. |
| Triangle/Y + Circle/B (During Combo) | Roundslash | A wide-area slash allowing quick directional changes. Chaining it from specific attacks unlocks the powerful Spinning Reaper. |
| Holding down Triangle/Y + Circle/B (During Combo) | Charged Chop | A powerful leaping attack. Hitting a monster's weak point inflicts multiple instances of damage. Power increases after certain attacks. |
| Forward on analog stick + Circle/B | Shield Attack | Bash enemies with your shield, dealing stun damage when hitting the head. |
| Push back analog stick + Circle/B (During Combo) | Backstep | Avoid monster attacks during combos. Press Triangle/Y during a Backstep for Perfect Rush (a multi-hit attack inflicting elemental damage and ailments). Press Triangle/Y when the sword flashes to boost damage. |
| Circle/B During Backstep | Charged Slash | A Charged Slash after a Backstep allows a high jump, followed by aerial attacks like Jumping Slash (Triangle/Y) or Falling Bash (Circle/B). |
| Hold down R2/RT | Guard | Guard against attacks. Perfect Guarding triggers a powerful Counter Slash (press Triangle/Y afterward). |
| R2/RT + Triangle/Y | Sliding Swipe | A quick attack for closing distance. |
| R2/RT + Square/X | Use Item | Use items while your weapon is drawn. |
| L2/LT + R1/RB | Focus Strike: Vital Stab | A stabbing attack effective against wounds. After hitting a wound or weak point, press Triangle/Y for Falling Slash or Circle/B for Upswing Bash. |
Combos
For evasive yet damaging gameplay, master these key combos:
Lateral Slash Combo
Begin with Lateral Slash (Circle/B), followed by Return Stroke (Circle/B), Spinning Rising Slash (Circle/B), Spinning Reaper (Triangle/Y + Circle/B), and Charged Chop (Hold Triangle/Y + Circle/B). This combo delivers significant damage without prolonged vulnerability.
Shield Bash Combo
To knock down targets, use Shield Attack (forward analog stick + Circle/B), followed by two more Circle/B presses, and finish with Guard Slash (R2/RT + Circle/B). Aim for the monster's head for maximum effectiveness.
Perfect Rush Combo
This powerful combo starts with any attack, then Backstep (push back analog stick + Circle/B), Leaping Slash (Triangle/Y), Perfect Rush (Triangle/Y), Scaling Slash (Triangle/Y), and Falling Bash (Circle/B). Precise timing during Backstep, Leaping Slash, and Perfect Rush (watch for the hunter's red flash) maximizes damage.
Related: How to Capture Monsters in Monster Hunter Wild
Sword and Shield Tips
Combine blade and shield with swift movements for optimal performance:
Vary Your Attacks
Use fast sword attacks to build elemental damage and shield attacks to stun enemies.
Dodging and Guarding
Master Perfect Guards to negate damage and Power Clashes to knock back monsters. Use Backstep for evasion and immediate counterattacks.
Focus Strikes
Exploit wounds using Focus Strike, followed by Falling Slash or Upswing Bash (chain Upswing Bash into Falling Bash for increased stun).
Item Usage
Utilize the ability to use items while your weapon is drawn for quick healing or support.
This comprehensive guide covers essential Sword and Shield techniques in Monster Hunter Wilds. Visit The Escapist for more game assistance.
Monster Hunter Wilds is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.
