Monster Hunter Wilds: Complete Sword And Shield Weapon Guide

Monster Hunter Wilds: Mastering the Sword and Shield

With 14 diverse and viable weapons in Monster Hunter Wilds, players have a wealth of combat styles to explore. While some might gravitate towards ranged options or visually impressive weapons like the Switch Axe, the humble Sword and Shield offers a surprisingly deep and effective gameplay experience perfect for beginners and veterans alike.

This guide delves into the nuances of the Sword and Shield, revealing its potential beyond its initial simplicity. Consult the in-game Settings > Info > Play Guide > Weapon Controls > Sword and Shield for platform-specific controls.

Sword and Shield Overview

Versatility defines the Sword and Shield. Mastering this weapon allows for agile movement around monsters, strategic positioning, and rapid, fluid attacks.

Its basic attacks are fast but short-ranged. The quick attack animations are highly responsive to player input, ensuring high mobility during combat. Precise timing even allows for attacking during some monster attacks.

However, careful attention to movement during combos is crucial to avoid accidentally moving out of range.

Blunt Attacks

The Sword and Shield uniquely inflicts both cutting and blunt damage. Using the Circle/B button while moving triggers a shield bash, delivering blunt damage. Consistent headshots with the shield can lead to monster knockdowns. Integrating shield bashes into combos, when safe and possible, significantly improves hunting efficiency.

Item Use

A significant advantage is the ability to use items like Potions, Antidotes, and even the Whetstone without sheathing your weapon. Hold R2/RT to raise your shield, then press the item-use button. Using the item button otherwise will sheath your weapon as usual.

Defending

Holding R2/RT raises the shield for defense. While offering some safer attacking positions with reduced mobility, its primary function is damage mitigation. Remember, the shield is not impenetrable; use it against weaker attacks.

Sword and Shield Combos and Tips

Beyond its ease of use, the Sword and Shield offers advanced techniques.

Charged Attacks

Two charged attacks enhance offensive capabilities.

• Charged Chop: Hold Triangle/Y and Circle/B simultaneously (only as a follow-up attack). This leaping attack delivers concentrated damage, ideal for wounding or severing tails.

• Charged Slash: Perform a shield bash while locked on, holding the directional button backward. A successful hit launches the hunter into the air for aerial attacks.

The Sliding Swipe (Triangle/Y while blocking and pressing a directional button) can also launch the hunter if it hits a wall or ledge, providing further aerial attack opportunities. Practice these moves in the Training Camp to avoid unexpected aerial launches. Charged Slash is particularly effective against downed monsters or for mounting attempts.

Elements and Status Effects

The Sword and Shield excels with elemental affinities and status ailments due to its high attack frequency. Consider using two Sword and Shields – one elemental/status, and one strong non-elemental – for maximum flexibility.

Focus Strike

The Focus Strike (L2/LT then R1/RB) anchors the hunter to the monster, allowing follow-up attacks: a slashing attack (Triangle/Y) or a blunt attack (Circle/B) that launches the hunter for another attack. The slashing attack is generally preferred.

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