How to use Sword and Shield in Monster Hunter Wilds: All Moves and Combos
- By Emery
- Mar 16,2025
Mastering the art of balance in Monster Hunter Wilds can be challenging, as every piece of equipment, from armor to Talismans, involves strategic trade-offs. However, the Sword and Shield offers exceptional versatility in combat. This guide explores how to maximize its offensive and defensive capabilities to become a truly formidable hunter.
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The Sword and Shield is a reliable weapon for both novice and experienced hunters. Its blend of mobility, damage output, and defensive guarding makes it suitable for all combat situations. It's equally adept at escaping perilous situations and launching aggressive attacks.
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 near ledges. |
| 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. Multiple instances of damage are possible by hitting a monster's weak points. The attack's 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 high jump follows a Charged Slash after a Backstep. Perform aerial attacks like Jumping Slash (Triangle/Y) or Falling Bash (Circle/B) while airborne. |
| Hold down R2/RT | Guard | Guard against attacks. A Perfect Guard results from well-timed guarding. Press Triangle/Y after a Perfect Guard for a Counter Slash. |
| 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 wounds or weak points, press Triangle/Y for a Falling Slash or Circle/B for an Upswing Bash. |
Combos
These combos enhance both elusiveness and damage output.
Lateral Slash Combo
Maximize damage with this combo: Lateral Slash (Circle/B), Return Stroke (Circle/B), Spinning Rising Slash (Circle/B), Spinning Reaper (Triangle/Y + Circle/B), and Charged Chop (Hold Triangle/Y + Circle/B). This quick combo delivers significant damage without prolonged vulnerability.
Shield Bash Combo
This combo is ideal for stunning monsters: Shield Attack (Forward analog stick + Circle/B), followed by two more Circle/B presses, concluding with a Guard Slash (R2/RT + Circle/B). Target the monster's head for maximum effectiveness.
Perfect Rush Combo
The Perfect Rush combo is arguably the most powerful: Begin 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 (indicated by a red flash) significantly increases damage.
Related: How to Capture Monsters in Monster Hunter Wild
Sword and Shield Tips
Master these techniques to further enhance your combat prowess.
Vary Your Attacks
Combine fast sword attacks (building elemental damage) with shield attacks (inflicting stun damage) for optimal efficiency.
Dodging and Guarding
Utilize Guarding and Backstep for defense. Perfect Guards negate damage, and Power Clashes knock back monsters. Backstep allows for immediate counterattacks.
Focus Strikes
Exploit Focus Strikes against open wounds, following up with either Falling Slash (for multiple hits) or Upswing Bash (for increased stun damage).
Item Usage
Use items while your weapon is drawn for quick healing or support of allies.
This comprehensive guide provides the essential knowledge for mastering the Sword and Shield in Monster Hunter Wilds. Check The Escapist for more helpful guides.
Monster Hunter Wilds is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.
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