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

Author：Kristen Update：May 22,2025

In *Monster Hunter Wilds*, finding the perfect balance can be challenging, as everything from armor to Talismans involves tradeoffs. Yet, when it comes to combat, the Sword and Shield stands out for its versatility, 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 choice for hunters, whether you're just starting out or a seasoned veteran. Its combination of mobility, damage potential, and the ability to guard makes it an excellent tool for all situations, allowing you to swiftly maneuver into and out of combat.

All Moves

Command	Move	Description
Triangle/Y	Standard Attack	A basic sword attack that can be chained into a 4-hit combo. Adjust your positioning with the analog stick during the combo.
Circle/B	Special Attack	Use the analog stick with Circle/B for a Shield Attack that deals stun damage. Press Circle/B for a powerful Lateral Slash.
Triangle/Y + Circle/B	Advancing Slash	An upward slash while advancing. Use it while sliding downhill or near a ledge for terrain-specific attacks.
Triangle/Y + Circle/B (During Combo)	Roundslash	Slashing a wide area, allowing for quick directional changes. Chain it from certain attacks for the powerful Spinning Reaper.
Holding down Triangle/Y + Circle/B (During Combo)	Charged Chop	A leaping attack that deals multiple hits if it hits a monster's soft spot. Its power increases when used after certain attacks.
Forward on analog stick + Circle/B	Shield Attack	Bash enemies with the shield to deal stun damage, especially effective when targeting the head.
Push back analog stick + Circle/B (During Combo)	Backstep	Use during combos to avoid monster attacks. Press Triangle/Y during a Backstep for Perfect Rush, a multi-hit attack that inflicts elemental damage and ailments. Press Triangle/Y when the sword flashes for increased damage.
Circle/B During Backstep	Charged Slash	Jump high in the air after a Backstep. 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 Perfect Guard at the right time allows for a quick and powerful Counter Slash (Triangle/Y).
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 while your weapon is unsheathed.
L2/LT + R1/RB	Focus Strike: Vital Stab	A stabbing attack effective against wounds. Follow up with Falling Slash (Triangle/Y) or Upswing Bash (Circle/B) after hitting wounds or weak points.

Combos

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

For players aiming to deal significant damage while staying agile, here are the essential combos to master.

Lateral Slash Combo

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 delivers quick, powerful strikes without committing you for too long.

Shield Bash Combo

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

Perfect Rush Combo

The most potent combo for the Sword and Shield, the Perfect Rush should be your go-to. Begin with any attack, then execute Backstep (Push back analog stick + Circle/B), followed by Leaping Slash (Triangle/Y), into Perfect Rush (Triangle/Y), a Scaling Slash (Triangle/Y), and finish with Falling Bash (Circle/B). Timing is crucial; watch for the red flash on your hunter to maximize damage.

Sword and Shield Tips

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

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

Vary Your Attacks

To bring down your target quickly, mix fast sword attacks for elemental damage with shield attacks for stun damage. This combination can topple the enemy more effectively.

Dodging and Guarding

When defense is key, use Guarding and Backstep. Mastering Perfect Guards with precise timing can negate damage and set up Power Clashes to push monsters back. Backstep allows you to evade and immediately counterattack, so practice your timing and spacing.

Focus Strikes

As you inflict more wounds on monsters, use Focus Strikes to maximize your advantage. Unlike other weapons, the Sword and Shield allows for two follow-up attacks: Falling Slash for additional hits or Upswing Bash, which can lead to Falling Bash for increased stun damage.

Item Usage

A unique advantage of the Sword and Shield is the ability to use items while the weapon is drawn. This feature allows for quick healing or supporting allies, maintaining pressure on the monster without interruption.

These are the key strategies for wielding the Sword and Shield effectively 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.*