How to use Hunting Horn in Monster Hunter Wilds: All Moves and Combos
- By Simon
- Mar 19,2025
In the vibrant world of Monster Hunter Wilds, the Hunting Horn stands out as a unique and powerful weapon. While initially unconventional, mastering this instrument unlocks significant advantages. This guide reveals the secrets to maximizing your Hunting Horn's potential.
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This blunt weapon isn't just about making noise; it's about strategically deploying melodies to buff yourself and allies, turning the tide of battle. Understanding its moves and combos is key.
All Hunting Horn Moves
| Command | Move | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Triangle/Y | Left Swing | Basic attack producing Note 1. Use with a direction for a Forward Smash. |
| Circle/B | Right Swing | Basic attack producing Note 2. |
| Analog Direction + Circle/B | Flourish | Produces Note 2. Adding Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B during the attack adds another note. |
| Triangle/Y + Circle/B | Backwards Strike | Produces Note 3. Hits targets behind you and moves you backward. |
| Analog Direction + Triangle/Y + Circle/B | Overhead Smash | Produces Note 3. Adding Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B during the attack adds another note. |
| Backwards Analog Direction + Triangle/Y or Circle/B or Triangle/Y + Circle/B during combo | Hilt Stab | Quick attack producing a note, varying depending on the button pressed (Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B). |
| R2/RT | Perform | Activates Melody Effects. Stocked melodies play in order; select a specific melody with R2/RT + Triangle/Y or Circle/B. Press R2/RT during multiple melodies for a powerful Performance Beat, followed by an Encore (Triangle/Y + Circle/B) to boost and extend effects. Timing these with Melody Effects increases their power. |
| R2/RT + Cross/A | Echo Bubble | Produces an Echo Bubble, type determined by the equipped Hunting Horn. Add up to three notes (Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B) during creation. |
| R2/RT + Triangle/Y + Circle/B with Melody Stocked | Special Performance | Plays the unique Melody Effect of the equipped Hunting Horn; once stocked, it isn't overwritten. |
| L2/LT + R1/RB | Focus Strike: Reverb | Performance attack effective against wounds. Add up to five notes (Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B) during performance; correct timing increases damage. |
Hunting Horn Combos
Beyond its musical abilities, the Hunting Horn packs a punch. Here are some effective combos:
Overhead Smash Combo
A fundamental combo: Move forward and press Triangle/Y + Circle/B twice for the Overhead Smash and follow-up. Consistent use can stun monsters.
Performance Combo
After stacking melodies, initiate Perform (R2/RT), then follow with Triangle/Y + Circle/B for an Encore to boost and extend Melody Effects.
Echo Bubble Combo
Best against incapacitated enemies: Start with Echo Bubble (Cross/A + R2/RT), follow with Triangle/Y, Circle/B, Circle/B for Echo Wave (Blunt), then R2/RT for Perform and an Encore (Triangle/Y + Circle/B).
Related: How to Capture Monsters in Monster Hunter Wilds
Mastering the Hunting Horn
True mastery involves controlling buffs and timing damage output, especially in cooperative hunts.
Note Mastery
Each Hunting Horn has unique songs requiring specific note combinations. The top-right corner shows command-note pairings. Flourish and Overhead Smash allow adding extra notes. You can even play notes while riding your Seikret.
Buff Optimization
Stack songs for multiple buffs, choosing those appropriate to the situation. Remember that performances take time.
Echo Bubble Usage
Maximize Echo Bubble use. It provides three extra note inputs, amplifies damage, and boosts evasion and movement speed, improving survivability, especially in High Rank hunts.
Self-Improvement Skill
Prioritize Self-Improvement to at least level 2 (20% attack boost).
Special Performance Readiness
Always have a Special Performance ready (e.g., Offset Melody) to counter attacks by activating it just as a monster connects, knocking it down.
This comprehensive guide empowers you to wield the Hunting Horn effectively in Monster Hunter Wilds. Check The Escapist for more game guides.
Monster Hunter Wilds is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.
