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

Author : Alexander

Apr 15,2025

Finding balance in *Monster Hunter Wilds* can be a challenge, with trade-offs in everything from armor to Talismans. However, when it comes to combat, the Sword and Shield stands out as a versatile weapon that excels in both offense and defense. Here's how to maximize its potential in *Monster Hunter Wilds*.

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The Sword and Shield is an excellent choice for hunters of all levels in *Monster Hunter Wilds*. Its blend of mobility, damage output, and defensive capabilities makes it a reliable weapon for any situation. Whether you're a beginner looking to get into the action quickly or a seasoned veteran seeking a dependable tool, the Sword and Shield has you covered.

All Moves

Command	Move	Description
Triangle/Y	Standard Attack	A basic sword attack that can be chained into a 4-hit combo. Use the analog stick during the combo to adjust your position.
Circle/B	Special Attack	Combine the analog stick with Circle/B for a Shield Attack that inflicts stun damage. Press Circle/B alone to execute a powerful Lateral Slash.
Triangle/Y + Circle/B	Advancing Slash	Perform an upward slash while moving forward. Utilize Advancing Slash on slopes or near ledges for terrain-specific attacks.
Triangle/Y + Circle/B (During Combo)	Roundslash	A wide-ranging slash that allows quick directional changes. Chain it from specific attacks to unleash the powerful Spinning Reaper.
Holding down Triangle/Y + Circle/B (During Combo)	Charged Chop	Launch a powerful leaping attack. Hitting a monster's soft spot can cause multiple hits. The attack's power increases when used after certain moves.
Forward on analog stick + Circle/B	Shield Attack	Use your shield to bash into enemies, dealing stun damage, especially when targeting the head.
Push back analog stick + Circle/B (During Combo)	Backstep	Use Backstep during combos to evade monster attacks. Press Triangle/Y during a Backstep to initiate Perfect Rush, a multi-hit attack ideal for inflicting elemental damage and ailments. Press Triangle/Y when the sword glows to boost damage.
Circle/B During Backstep	Charged Slash	Execute a Charged Slash after a Backstep to jump high. In the air, follow up with aerial attacks like Jumping Slash (Triangle/Y) or Falling Bash (Circle/B).
Hold down R2/RT	Guard	Guard against attacks with your shield. A well-timed guard results in a Perfect Guard. Follow up with Triangle/Y after a Perfect Guard for a quick and potent Counter Slash.
R2/RT + Triangle/Y	Sliding Swipe	A swift attack that closes the distance to your target effortlessly.
R2/RT + Square/X	Use Item	Utilize certain items without sheathing your weapon.
L2/LT + R1/RB	Focus Strike: Vital Stab	Deliver a stabbing attack effective against wounds. After hitting a weak point or wound, press Triangle/Y for 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 those aiming to deal significant damage while maintaining agility, mastering these key combos is essential.

Lateral Slash Combo

Start with a Lateral Slash (Circle/B), follow with Return Stroke (Circle/B), then Spinning Rising Slash (Circle/B), and transition into Spinning Reaper (Triangle/Y + Circle/B) and Charged Chop (Hold Triangle/Y + Circle/B). This combo delivers swift, powerful strikes without leaving you vulnerable for long.

Shield Bash Combo

To knock down your target, initiate the Shield Attack combo by moving forward on the analog stick and pressing Circle/B, followed by two more Circle/B inputs, and finish with a Guard Slash (R2/RT + Circle/B). This combo is most effective when targeting a monster's head, capable of knocking down most monsters after a few repetitions.

Perfect Rush Combo

The Perfect Rush combo is the most potent sequence for the Sword and Shield. 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 conclude with Falling Bash (Circle/B). Timing is crucial; watch for the red flash on your hunter to maximize damage output.

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

Leverage the Sword and Shield's versatility with these tips to enhance your combat effectiveness.

Vary Your Attacks

To expedite defeating a monster, alternate between fast sword attacks to build elemental damage and shield attacks to inflict stun damage, potentially toppling your foe.

Dodging and Guarding

When defense is paramount, utilize Guarding and Backstep. Mastering Perfect Guards can negate incoming damage, while Power Clashes can push monsters back. Backstep not only evades attacks but also sets up counterattacks. Practice your timing and spacing to turn the tables on your adversaries.

Focus Strikes

As you inflict more wounds on monsters, employ Focus Strikes to capitalize on their vulnerabilities. With the Sword and Shield, you can follow up with either a Falling Slash for additional hits or an Upswing Bash, which can lead into a Falling Bash to increase stun damage.

Item Usage

A unique advantage for Sword and Shield users in *Monster Hunter Wilds* is the ability to use items without sheathing your weapon. This feature allows for quick healing or supporting allies, keeping the pressure on your target.

That's all the essential information on using 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.*