How to use Sword and Shield in Monster Hunter Wilds: All Moves and Combos

In the dynamic world of *Monster Hunter Wilds*, achieving a perfect balance can be challenging due to the trade-offs involved with every piece of armor and Talisman. However, when it comes to combat, the Sword and Shield emerges as a versatile tool, adept at both offense and defense. Here's how you can maximize its potential in *Monster Hunter Wilds*.
Sword and Shield in Monster Hunter Wilds
The Sword and Shield is a go-to weapon for both novice hunters and seasoned veterans, thanks to its excellent mobility, damage output, and defensive capabilities. It's the perfect weapon for any situation, allowing you to dive into the fray or swiftly retreat to safety.
All Moves
Command | Move | Description |
---|---|---|
Triangle/Y | Standard Attack | A basic sword attack that can be chained into a 4-hit combo. Adjust your position during the combo with the analog stick. |
Circle/B | Special Attack | Combine the analog stick with Circle/B for a Shield Attack that inflicts stun damage. Press Circle/B alone for a powerful Lateral Slash. |
Triangle/Y + Circle/B | Advancing Slash | An upward slash while moving forward. Use it while sliding or near a ledge for terrain-specific attacks. |
Triangle/Y + Circle/B (During Combo) | Roundslash | A wide-area slash that allows for quick directional changes. Chain it with certain attacks to unleash the powerful Spinning Reaper. |
Holding down Triangle/Y + Circle/B (During Combo) | Charged Chop | A powerful leap attack. Hitting a monster's soft spot can deal multiple hits, and the attack's power increases after certain moves. |
Forward on analog stick + Circle/B | Shield Attack | Use your shield to bash enemies, dealing stun damage especially when targeting the head. |
Push back analog stick + Circle/B (During Combo) | Backstep | Backstep during combos to evade monster attacks. Follow with Triangle/Y for a Perfect Rush, a multi-hit attack that inflicts elemental damage and ailments. Press Triangle/Y when the sword flashes to boost damage. |
Circle/B During Backstep | Charged Slash | Jump high after a Backstep with a Charged Slash. In the air, perform a Jumping Slash (Triangle/Y) or Falling Bash (Circle/B). |
Hold down R2/RT | Guard | Block attacks with your shield. Time it right for a Perfect Guard, then press Triangle/Y for a quick and powerful Counter Slash. |
R2/RT + Triangle/Y | Sliding Swipe | Quickly close the distance to your target with this attack. |
R2/RT + Square/X | Use Item | Use certain items without sheathing your weapon. |
L2/LT + R1/RB | Focus Strike: Vital Stab | An effective stab against wounds. After hitting, press Triangle/Y for a Falling Slash or Circle/B for an Upswing Bash. |
Combos

Master these combos to become a formidable opponent while maintaining agility:
Lateral Slash Combo
Initiate with Lateral Slash (Circle/B), follow with Return Stroke (Circle/B), then Spinning Rising Slash (Circle/B), and conclude with Spinning Reaper (Triangle/Y + Circle/B) and Charged Chop (Hold Triangle/Y + Circle/B). This combo delivers high damage without locking you in place for too long.
Shield Bash Combo
To knock down your target, start with a Shield Attack (forward on analog stick + Circle/B), then two more Circle/B inputs, and finish with a Guard Slash (R2/RT + Circle/B). Aim for the monster's head for maximum effect.
Perfect Rush Combo
This is the most potent combo for the Sword and Shield. Start with any attack, then Backstep (push back analog stick + Circle/B), Leaping Slash (Triangle/Y), Perfect Rush (Triangle/Y), Scaling Slash (Triangle/Y), and end with Falling Bash (Circle/B). Timing is crucial; wait for the hunter to flash red for enhanced damage.
Sword and Shield Tips

Leverage the Sword and Shield's versatility with these tips:
Vary Your Attacks
Mix fast sword strikes to build elemental damage with shield attacks to stun and topple your foes.
Dodging and Guarding
Master Perfect Guards to negate damage and use Backstep to evade and set up counterattacks. Learn the timing and spacing to turn monster attacks against them.
Focus Strikes
Exploit monster wounds with Focus Strikes. Follow up with Falling Slash for multiple hits or Upswing Bash to increase stun damage.
Item Usage
Take advantage of the ability to use items without sheathing your weapon to stay in the fight longer and support your team more effectively.
With these strategies and techniques, you'll be well-equipped to handle any challenge *Monster Hunter Wilds* throws at you. For more tips and guides, be sure to check out The Escapist.
*Monster Hunter Wilds is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.*
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