How to Play Sword and Shield in Monster Hunter Wilds

Monster Hunter Wilds: Mastering the Sword and Shield

Monster Hunter Wilds brings back fan-favorite weapons, each with a unique feel. While every hunter finds their perfect match, the Sword and Shield stands out for its accessibility and balanced gameplay. It offers a blend of offensive and defensive capabilities, making it an ideal starting point for newcomers.

Sword and Shield Moveset

The Sword and Shield's strength lies in its defensive capabilities; you can block attacks more effectively than with many other weapons.

Basic Attacks	PlayStation 5	Xbox	PC
Chop	Triangle	Y	Left Click
Lateral Slash	Circle	B	Right Click
Guard (Hold)	R2	RT	R
Guard Slash	R2 Circle	RT B	R Right Click
Sliding Swipe	R2 Triangle	RT Y	R Left Click
Shield Attack (Hold direction button)	Circle	B	Right Click

Special Attacks	PlayStation 5	Xbox	PC
Charged Chop (Hold)	Triangle Circle	Y B	Left Click Right Click
Backstep (Thumbstick/WASD Directions Button)	Circle	B	Right Click
Advancing Slash (Hold and release after Backstep)	Circle	B	Right Click
Plunging Thrust (After Advancing Slash)	Triangle Circle	Y B	Left Right Click
Jumping Slash (After Advancing Slash)	Triangle	Y	Left Click
Falling Bash (After Advancing Slash)	Circle	B	Right Click

Mastering Basic Combos

The Sword and Shield is a perfect entry-level weapon. Its relatively low damage output is compensated by versatile moves and strong defensive options. The early-game training area is ideal for practicing basic combos, such as chaining Chop and Lateral Slash attacks, followed by guarding incoming attacks.

Utilizing the Focus feature enhances accuracy and damage output. While attacks like Backstep work without Focus, aiming improves their reliability. Although not its primary strength, Backstep delivers extra damage against stunned or trapped monsters.

Balancing Offense and Defense

Effective Sword and Shield gameplay requires a balance between offense and defense. Perfect blocks create openings for counter-attacks, encouraging players to learn monster attack patterns. However, some attacks necessitate dodging to avoid lingering effects. Strategic shield bashes, particularly to the head, can briefly stun monsters, setting up attack opportunities.

The Plunging Thrust, accessible after a Backstep, delivers significant damage, especially against stunned or slower monsters. After the Backstep (easily performed with Focus), hold Circle/B until the weapon glows red to initiate the Plunging Thrust. This jump attack offers further offensive options.

The Sword and Shield's ease of use and balanced design make it a fantastic starting weapon in Monster Hunter Wilds. Mastering its moveset, understanding when to block versus dodge, and finding the right balance between offense and defense will transform you into a formidable hunter.

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