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Master Sword and Shield Techniques in Monster Hunter Wilds: Full Move List and Combos

by Christian Apr 20,2025

Finding the perfect balance in *Monster Hunter Wilds* can be challenging, with every piece of gear from armor to Talismans requiring careful consideration. However, when it comes to combat, the Sword and Shield stands out as a versatile choice, offering both offensive and defensive capabilities. Here’s how to maximize the potential of your Sword and Shield in *Monster Hunter Wilds*.

Sword and Shield in Monster Hunter Wilds

The Sword and Shield is a reliable weapon that excels in both getting you out of tight spots and diving right into the fray. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned hunter, its blend of mobility, damage, and the ability to guard makes it an excellent choice for any situation.

All Moves

CommandMoveDescription
Triangle/YStandard AttackA basic sword attack that can be chained into a 4-hit combo. Use the analog stick mid-combo to adjust your positioning.
Circle/BSpecial AttackUse the analog stick with Circle/B to perform a Shield Attack that deals stun damage. Press Circle/B to execute a powerful Lateral Slash.
Triangle/Y + Circle/BAdvancing SlashAn 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)RoundslashAn attack that slashes a wide area, allowing quick directional changes. Chaining it from certain attacks results in the powerful Spinning Reaper.
Holding down Triangle/Y + Circle/B (During Combo)Charged ChopA powerful leaping attack. Hitting a monster's soft spot allows multiple damage instances. The attack's power increases if used after certain moves.
Forward on analog stick + Circle/BShield AttackUse the shield to bash into enemies and deal stun damage, particularly effective when targeting the enemy's head.
Push back analog stick + Circle/B (During Combo)BackstepBackstep can be used during combos to evade monster attacks. Press Triangle/Y during a Backstep to perform Perfect Rush, a multi-hit attack that inflicts elemental damage and ailments. Press Triangle/Y when the sword flashes to increase damage.
Circle/B During BackstepCharged SlashLanding a Charged Slash after a Backstep allows high jumps. While airborne, follow up with aerial attacks like Jumping Slash (Triangle/Y) or Falling Bash (Circle/B).
Hold down R2/RTGuardGuard against attacks using your shield. A Perfect Guard at the right time enables a quick and powerful Counter Slash (Triangle/Y).
R2/RT + Triangle/YSliding SwipeAn easily performed attack that helps quickly close the distance to your target.
R2/RT + Square/XUse ItemYou can use certain items while your weapon is unsheathed.
L2/LT + R1/RBFocus Strike: Vital StabA stabbing attack effective against wounds. After hitting wounds or weak points, 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 players aiming to maximize damage while staying agile, mastering key combos is crucial.

Lateral Slash Combo

The Lateral Slash combo can lead to significant damage when you incorporate the Spinning Reaper and Charged Chop. Start with Lateral Slash (Circle/B), followed by Return Stroke (Circle/B), Spinning Rising Slash (Circle/B), then transition into Spinning Reaper (Triangle/Y + Circle/B) and finish with Charged Chop (Hold Triangle/Y + Circle/B). This combo is quick and powerful, allowing you to deal substantial damage without being locked into long animations.

Shield Bash Combo

To knock down your target, use the Shield Attack combo. Begin by moving forward on the analog stick and pressing Circle/B, then continue with two more Circle/B inputs, and conclude with a Guard Slash (R2/RT + Circle/B). This combo is most effective when targeting a monster's head, often knocking them down after a few repetitions.

Perfect Rush Combo

The Perfect Rush combo is arguably the most potent for the Sword and Shield. Start with any attack, then initiate 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 finally a Falling Bash (Circle/B). Timing is key; watch for the hunter to flash red before moving to the next command to enhance damage output.

Sword and Shield Tips

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

Leveraging both the blade and shield, along with quick movements, can significantly enhance your Sword and Shield gameplay.

Vary Your Attacks

To expedite the process of defeating monsters, mix up your attacks. Fast sword strikes build elemental damage, while a series of shield bashes can stun and topple your foe when the opportunity arises.

Dodging and Guarding

In defensive situations, utilize Guarding and Backstep effectively. Mastering Perfect Guards can negate damage and set up Power Clashes to knock monsters back. Backstep not only helps you evade attacks but also positions you for immediate counterattacks. Practice your spacing and timing to make the most of these maneuvers.

Focus Strikes

As you inflict more wounds on monsters, use the Focus Strike to capitalize on these openings. 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 monsters without interruption.

That’s all the essential information on using the Sword and Shield in *Monster Hunter Wilds*. For more tips and guides, be sure to visit The Escapist.

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

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