One of the most exciting aspects of the *Monster Hunter* franchise is the variety of weapons available, each offering unique gameplay and strategies. For those aiming to master the Great Sword in *Monster Hunter Wilds*, this guide will provide you with the essential tips and techniques to dominate the battlefield.

Best Ways To Use the Great Sword in Monster Hunter Wilds

The Great Sword is renowned for its heavy impact and slow but devastating swings. A single well-timed attack can deliver massive damage, making it crucial for players to understand when and how to maximize its potential. As you progress, upgrades will enhance its power and add elemental bonuses, making it an even more formidable weapon.

All Moves

Combos

Mastering combos with the Great Sword in *Monster Hunter Wilds* can significantly impact your effectiveness in battle. Here are some key combos to practice:

True Charged Slash Combo

Initiate this combo by pressing Triangle/Y three times in a row. Start with an Overhead Slash, followed by a Strong Charged Slash, and finish with the True Charged Slash. Each slash can be charged by holding down the attack button, indicated by the hunter flashing white, yellow, and then red, which increases the damage dealt. Hitting a soft part of the monster with a True Charged Slash triggers the True Charged Slash (Power), boosting damage further. After hitting the True Charged Slash Combo, you can dodge immediately and press Triangle/Y to tackle, skipping the first Overhead Slash and transitioning directly to the Strong Charged Slash, allowing for quicker damage delivery.

Forward Lunging Combo

This combo starts with three presses of the Circle/B button, executing a Wide Slash, a Tackle, and a Leaping Wide Slash. It's ideal for covering a large area while maintaining high damage output, especially useful against elusive targets. Using Focus Mode simultaneously ensures you hit all weak spots and wounds effectively.

Stationary Combo

When a monster is under status effects like paralysis, utilize this combo by alternating between a Wide Slash and a Rising Slash, repeating the set twice. This results in a quick four-hit combo that keeps the pressure on the monster, though it's not the most damaging option.

Related: How to Capture Monsters in Monster Hunter Wild

Guard and Counters

The Great Sword in *Monster Hunter Wilds* allows players to block damage and execute powerful counterattacks with precise timing. Here's how to leverage these mechanics:

Offset Rising Slash

While the Rising Slash is effective against taller enemies, it shines as a countering tool. Press Triangle/Y and Circle/B simultaneously to unleash the Rising Slash, but hold the buttons to charge. Releasing the charge just as a monster attacks can knock it down, allowing for a follow-up Cross Slash with Triangle/Y. Timing is critical; too early or too late, and you risk taking more damage.

Guarding

Holding R2/RT activates the guard, reducing incoming damage at the cost of stamina. While not ideal for prolonged battles due to chip damage, perfect timing can result in a Perfect Guard, negating all damage. Executing a Perfect Guard at the moment an attack hits provides visual and auditory cues. Occasionally, a Perfect Guard leads to a Power Clash, where mashing Circle/B can win a struggle against the monster, knocking it down for further attacks.

Mastering the Great Sword in *Monster Hunter Wilds* requires practice and understanding of these techniques. For more tips and strategies, be sure to explore the rest of The Escapist's resources.

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