In the dynamic world of *Monster Hunter Wilds*, speed and strategic positioning can be just as crucial as sheer power. This is where the Dual Blades shine, offering players a fast and versatile way to tackle even the toughest monsters. Here's how to make the most out of these swift weapons.
Dual Blades in Monster Hunter Wilds
The Dual Blades are renowned for their rapid, multi-hit capabilities, making them a formidable choice for hunters who thrive on agility and relentless attacks. Mastering both of their modes is essential for dominating the battlefield.
All Moves
Command | Move | Description |
---|---|---|
Triangle/Y | Double Slash/Circle Slash | Initiate combat with a Double Slash, followed by a Circle Slash for a seamless combo start. |
Circle/B | Lunging Strike/Roundslash | Advance with a Lunging Strike and follow up with a Roundslash for continued aggression. |
R2/RT | Demon Mode | Activate Demon Mode to enhance your attack, movement speed, and evasion, granting knockback immunity. |
Triangle/Y + Circle/B (In Demon Mode) | Blade Dance I, II, III | Unleash a series of powerful Blade Dances in Demon Mode, consuming the Demon Gauge. |
Triangle/Y + Circle/B (In Archdemon Mode) | Demon Flurry I, II | Execute a rapid series of Demon Flurry attacks in Archdemon Mode, using the analog stick for directional control. Chain these with Blade Dance attacks using R2/RT. |
Cross/A (During Demon/Archdemon Mode) | Demon Dodge | Perform a swift Demon Dodge that's faster than normal. A Perfect Evade allows for attacking while dodging and grants a short-term buff. Demon Dodge doesn't consume the Demon Gauge in Demon Mode. |
L2/LT + R1/RB | Focus Strike: Turning Tide | Deliver a powerful Focus Strike that targets wounds, triggering a Midair Spinning Blade Dance upon hitting a wound, capable of damaging multiple wounds across the monster. |
Demon Mode/Demon Gauge and Archdemon Mode
The Dual Blades feature a unique Demon Gauge mechanic. Activating Demon Mode boosts your attack, movement speed, and evasion while granting knockback immunity. However, it consumes stamina continuously until you manually exit or run out of stamina. Successfully landing attacks in Demon Mode fills the Demon Gauge, which, once full, shifts you into Archdemon Mode. Here, the gauge depletes over time and is used by specific attacks, enabling you to unleash powerful, boosted attacks. Both modes can be utilized interchangeably, and the Demon Gauge stops decreasing when you mount a monster, giving you strategic advantages during combat.
Demon Dodge
Achieving a Perfect Evade in Demon or Archdemon Mode triggers Demon Dodge, enhancing your regular and elemental damage. This state allows you to attack while dodging and provides a 12-second damage buff, with subsequent dodges causing damage as you spin forward.
Combos
Image Source: Capcom via The Escapist
The Dual Blades' effectiveness hinges on mastering combos in Demon and Archdemon Modes. Understanding how to chain attacks together is key to maximizing damage output.
Basic Combo
Chain three Triangle/Y attacks for a basic combo: Double Slash, Double Slash Return Stroke, and Circle Slash. This sequence delivers reliable damage in various hunting scenarios. Alternatively, use the Circle/B Demon Flurry Rush – Spinning Slash – Double Roundslash combo to quickly fill the Demon Gauge.
Demon Mode Basic Combo
In Demon Mode, your basic combo becomes more potent and faster: Demon Fangs, Twofold Demon Slash, Sixfold Demon Slash, finishing with Triangle/Y + Circle/B for Demon Flurry I.
Archdemon Mode Blade Dance Combo
Once the Demon Gauge is full, switch to Archdemon Mode for swift, powerful attacks. Begin with Blade Dance (Triangle/Y + Circle/B) in Demon Mode, then press R2/RT four times for Demon Flurry I into Blade Dance II, and conclude with Demon Flurry II and Blade Dance III. This combo alternates between modes for maximum damage output.
Related: How to Capture Monsters in Monster Hunter Wild
Dual Blade Tips
Image Source: Capcom via The Escapist
Mastering the Dual Blades involves fluid transitions between Demon and Archdemon Modes, maximizing damage potential at every turn.
Always Follow Up
Start with the basic Demon Flurry Rush combo (Circle/B + Circle/B + Circle/B), then seamlessly transition into full Demon or Archdemon Mode combos with three sets of Triangle/Y + Circle/B. This approach fills the Demon Gauge and converts it into swift damage, a feat unmatched by slower weapons like the Great Sword.
Keep Your Stamina Up
Stamina is crucial in Demon Mode. To maintain stamina, consider exiting the mode to recover or use Focus Strike on wounds. This not only halts stamina drain during the attack but also fills the Demon Gauge, preparing you for more aggressive assaults upon landing.
Dodging in Between Attacks
Without a reliable defense, dodging is your best friend. The Dual Blades provide superior mobility, allowing you to dodge out of most attacks and combos. Avoid overcommitting; use the quick animations to wait for the perfect window to strike.
Ensure Sharpness
The relentless nature of Dual Blades combat means sharpness can deplete quickly. Utilize the Speed Sharpening skill in your build to minimize downtime and maximize your time in the fray.
Mastering the Dual Blades in *Monster Hunter Wilds* requires understanding these techniques and strategies. For more tips and guides, be sure to explore resources at The Escapist.
*Monster Hunter Wilds is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.*