Mastering Sword and Shield in Monster Hunter Wilds: Moves and Combos Guide

Finding the right balance in *Monster Hunter Wilds* can be challenging, given the trade-offs inherent in everything from armor to Talismans. Yet, when it comes to combat, the Sword and Shield stands out for its versatility. It offers a perfect blend of offense and defense, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and seasoned hunters. Here’s how to maximize your effectiveness with the Sword and Shield in *Monster Hunter Wilds*.

Sword and Shield in Monster Hunter Wilds

The Sword and Shield is your go-to weapon for flexibility and reliability. Its ability to swiftly transition between attacking and defending makes it ideal for all situations. Whether you're a novice getting to grips with the game or a seasoned pro looking for a dependable weapon, the Sword and Shield has you covered.

All Moves

Command	Move	Description
Triangle/Y	Standard Attack	A basic sword attack that can be chained together for a 4-hit combo. Use the analog stick mid-combo to adjust your positioning.
Circle/B	Special Attack	Use the analog stick with Circle/B to perform a Shield Attack that deals stun damage. Press Circle/B to perform a powerful Lateral Slash.
Triangle/Y + Circle/B	Advancing Slash	An upward slash performed while advancing forward. Using Advancing Slash while sliding downhill or towards a ledge will allow a terrain-specific attack.
Triangle/Y + Circle/B (During Combo)	Roundslash	An attack that slashes a wide area, during which you can quickly change your direction. Chaining it from certain attacks will result in the powerful Spinning Reaper.
Holding down Triangle/Y + Circle/B (During Combo)	Charged Chop	A powerful leaping attack. Hitting the soft spot in a monster’s hide will allow you to deal multiple instances of damage. The power of the attack increases if used after certain attacks.
Forward on analog stick + Circle/B	Shield Attack	Use the shield to bash into enemies and deal stun damage when targeting the enemy’s head.
Push back analog stick + Circle/B (During Combo)	Backstep	Backstep can be used during combos to avoid monster attacks. Press Triangle/Y during a Backstep to perform Perfect Rush, a multi-hit attack that can easily afflict elemental damage and ailments. Press Triangle/Y when the sword flashes to increase damage.
Circle/B During Backstep	Charged Slash	Landing a Charged Slash after a Backstep allows players to jump high in the air. While airborne, you can follow up with different aerial attacks such as Jumping Slash (Triangle/Y) or a Falling Bash (Circle/B).
Hold down R2/RT	Guard	Guard against attacks using your shield. Guarding at the right time will result in a Perfect Guard. Press Triangle/Y after a Perfect Guard to perform a quick and powerful Counter Slash.
R2/RT + Triangle/Y	Sliding Swipe	An attack that can be performed easily, allowing you to quickly close the distance between you and the target.
R2/RT + Square/X	Use Item	You can use certain items while your weapon is unsheathed.
L2/LT + R1/RB	Focus Strike: Vital Stab	A stabbing attack effective against wounds. After hitting the wounds or a weak point, press Triangle/Y to follow up with a Falling Slash, or Circle/B for an Upswing Bash.

Combos

Sword and Shield in Monster Hunter Wilds Combos Image Source: Capcom via The Escapist

For players aiming to deal significant damage while staying agile, mastering these key combos with the Sword and Shield is essential.

Lateral Slash Combo

The Lateral Slash combo is a versatile starting point that can be enhanced with more powerful attacks. Begin with a Lateral Slash (Circle/B), follow with a Return Stroke (Circle/B), then a Spinning Rising Slash (Circle/B), and transition into the Spinning Reaper (Triangle/Y + Circle/B) and Charged Chop (Hold Triangle/Y + Circle/B). This combo is quick and powerful, allowing you to inflict substantial damage without committing to long animations.

Shield Bash Combo

If your goal is to knock down your target, the Shield Bash combo is your best bet. Start the sequence by moving the analog stick forward and pressing Circle/B, then continue with two more sets of Circle/B, finishing with a Guard Slash (R2/RT + Circle/B). This combo is particularly effective when aimed at a monster's head, often leading to a knockdown after a few repetitions.

Perfect Rush Combo

The Perfect Rush combo is the most potent attack sequence for the Sword and Shield. Start with any attack, then initiate a Backstep (Push back analog stick + Circle/B), followed by a Leaping Slash (Triangle/Y) into Perfect Rush (Triangle/Y), a Scaling Slash (Triangle/Y), and conclude with a Falling Bash (Circle/B). Timing is crucial here; watch for the red flash on your hunter to maximize damage. This combo is far more effective than button mashing.

Related: How to Capture Monsters in Monster Hunter Wild

Sword and Shield Tips

Sword and Shield in Monster Hunter Wilds Tips Image Source: Capcom via The Escapist

To harness the full potential of the Sword and Shield, consider these strategic tips:

Vary Your Attacks

To quickly bring down your target, mix fast sword attacks to build elemental damage with shield attacks to deal stun damage. This variety can significantly speed up your combat efficiency.

Dodging and Guarding

When defense becomes paramount, utilize Guarding and Backstep effectively. Mastering Perfect Guards can negate incoming damage, while Power Clashes can push back monsters. Backstep not only removes you from danger but also sets up a perfect counterattack. Understanding the timing and spacing of these moves is key to outmaneuvering your foes.

Focus Strikes

As you inflict more wounds on monsters, use Focus Strikes to capitalize on their weakened state. With the Sword and Shield, you can follow up with either a Falling Slash for multiple hits or an Upswing Bash, which can be chained into a Falling Bash to increase stun damage.

Item Usage

A unique advantage of the Sword and Shield is the ability to use items without sheathing your weapon. This feature can be a game-changer, allowing you to heal or support your team swiftly, maintaining relentless pressure on your enemies.

These are the essential strategies for wielding the Sword and Shield in *Monster Hunter Wilds*. For more tips and guides, be sure to check out The Escapist.

*Monster Hunter Wilds is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.*