Mastering Great Sword Moves and Combos in Monster Hunter Wilds
One of the most thrilling aspects of the *Monster Hunter* franchise is the diverse array of weapons at hunters' disposal, each with its own unique mechanics and strategies. For those looking to master the Great Sword in *Monster Hunter Wilds*, this comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge and techniques needed to dominate the battlefield.
Best Ways To Use the Great Sword in Monster Hunter Wilds
The Great Sword stands out as a heavy weapon that, while slow to wield, delivers devastating blows. Mastering the timing and placement of your attacks can turn a single swing into a game-changer. With future upgrades enhancing its power and introducing elemental bonuses, the Great Sword's potential only grows, making it an essential tool for any serious hunter.
All Moves
| Command | Move | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Triangle/Y | Overhead Slash | An uncharged overhead attack that can be seamlessly transitioned into a charge for further combos. |
| Holding down Triangle/Y | Charge/Charged Slash | A powerful slashing attack that increases in strength the longer it is charged. |
| Holding down Triangle/Y + Circle/B | Tackle | A rising slash that can counter monster attacks. Timing a release during a monster's attack can knock it down, followed by a Cross Slash with Triangle/Y. |
| Circle/B | Wide Slash | A broad slashing attack that can transition into a Leaping Wide Slash or a Strong Wide Slash from a Strong Charged Slash. |
| Triangle/Y + Circle/B | Rising Slash | A high-reaching slash perfect for targeting elevated monster parts. |
| Holding down Triangle/Y + Circle/B | Offset Rising Slash | Similar to Tackle, this rising slash counters monster attacks and can knock them down when timed correctly, followed by a Cross Slash. |
| R2/RT | Guard | A defensive move using the Great Sword's blade. Adjust the guard direction with Focus Mode. |
| R2/RT + Triangle/Y | Kick | A kick executed while guarding by pressing Triangle/Y. |
| L2/LT + R1/RB | Focus Slash/Perforate | A sweeping attack effective against monster wounds, dealing massive damage to weak points. Press R1/RB to end the attack prematurely. |
Combos
Image Source: Capcom via The Escapist
Mastering the Great Sword involves learning a variety of combos, each designed to maximize your damage output and control the flow of battle.
True Charged Slash Combo
Initiate this combo with three consecutive presses of Triangle/Y, starting with an Overhead Slash, followed by a Strong Charged Slash, and culminating in the True Charged Slash. Holding down the attack button during each slash charges the attack, indicated by the hunter flashing white, yellow, and red, increasing damage with each level. Hitting a soft part of the monster with a True Charged Slash triggers the True Charged Slash (Power), further boosting damage. A useful shortcut involves dodging immediately after hitting the True Charged Slash Combo, allowing a quick transition to a Tackle, bypassing the Overhead Slash and speeding up your attack sequence.
Forward Lunging Combo
This combo, initiated with three Circle/B presses, includes a Wide Slash, a Tackle, and a Leaping Wide Slash. Ideal for covering large areas and targeting elusive monsters, this combo's effectiveness can be enhanced with Focus Mode to hit all weak spots and wounds.
Stationary Combo
When a monster is immobilized by status effects like paralysis, utilize this combo, consisting of a Wide Slash and a Rising Slash repeated twice. This four-hit sequence applies consistent pressure but is less optimal for raw damage output.
Related: How to Capture Monsters in Monster Hunter Wild
Guard and Counters
Image Source: Capcom via The Escapist
The Great Sword also offers robust defensive capabilities, allowing players to block and counterattack with precision.
Offset Rising Slash
While effective against taller enemies, the Rising Slash shines as a counterattack in *Monster Hunter Wilds*. Pressing Triangle/Y and Circle/B simultaneously unleashes the Rising Slash, but holding them charges the attack. Releasing just as a monster strikes can knock it down, enabling a follow-up Cross Slash with Triangle/Y. Mastering the timing is crucial to avoid leaving yourself vulnerable.
Guarding
Guarding with the Great Sword by holding R2/RT reduces incoming damage at the cost of stamina. Achieving a Perfect Guard, by timing the guard perfectly as an attack hits, negates all damage, accompanied by visual and sound cues. While it doesn't halt the monster, chaining Perfect Guards can manage prolonged assaults. Occasionally, a Perfect Guard leads to a Power Clash, where mashing Circle/B can overpower the monster, knocking it down for further attacks.
Armed with this guide, you're well on your way to mastering the Great Sword in *Monster Hunter Wilds*. For more tips and strategies, be sure to explore the rest of The Escapist.
Monster Hunter Wilds is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.
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