The *Monster Hunter* franchise is renowned for its diverse arsenal of weapons, each offering unique gameplay and strategies. For those aiming to become proficient with the Great Sword in *Monster Hunter Wilds*, this comprehensive guide will provide you with essential tips and techniques to excel in your hunts.
Best Ways to Use the Great Sword in Monster Hunter Wilds
The Great Sword stands out as a heavy weapon, characterized by its slow but devastating strikes. Mastering the timing and execution of its powerful swings can significantly enhance your hunting prowess. As you progress, upgrades to the Great Sword will not only increase its raw power but also introduce elemental bonuses, amplifying its effectiveness against various monsters.
All Moves
| Command | Move | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Triangle/Y | Overhead Slash | An immediate overhead attack that can be chained into a charge for further combos. |
| Holding down Triangle/Y | Charge/Charged Slash | A slashing attack that gains strength with longer charge time. |
| Holding down Triangle/Y + Circle/B | Tackle | A rising slash that can counter monster attacks. Timing a release with a monster's attack can knock it down, followed by a Cross Slash. |
| Circle/B | Wide Slash | A broad area attack that can be linked into a Leaping Wide Slash or a Strong Wide Slash from a Strong Charged Slash. |
| Triangle/Y + Circle/B | Rising Slash | A vertical slash perfect for reaching high monster parts. |
| Holding down Triangle/Y + Circle/B | Offset Rising Slash | Similar to Tackle, this can counter monster attacks and knock them down if timed correctly, followed by a Cross Slash. |
| R2/RT | Guard | Defensive stance using the Great Sword's blade. Direction can be adjusted in Focus Mode. |
| R2/RT + Triangle/Y | Kick | A quick kick executed while guarding. |
| L2/LT + R1/RB | Focus Slash/Perforate | A sweeping attack effective on monster wounds, dealing multiple hits. Can be ended early with R1/RB. |
Combos
Mastering combos with the Great Sword in *Monster Hunter Wilds* is crucial for maximizing damage output and efficiency in combat.
True Charged Slash Combo
Initiate this combo by pressing Triangle/Y three times in succession, starting with an Overhead Slash, followed by a Strong Charged Slash, and culminating in the True Charged Slash. Charging each slash increases its power, indicated by the hunter flashing white, yellow, and then red. Hitting a monster's soft spot with a True Charged Slash can trigger the True Charged Slash (Power), boosting damage. A shortcut exists: after hitting the True Charged Slash Combo, dodge immediately and press Triangle/Y to execute a Tackle, skipping the initial Overhead Slash and moving straight to the Strong Charged Slash for quicker engagements.
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. Ideal for targeting elusive enemies, it covers a broad area and can be enhanced with Focus Mode to hit weak spots and wounds effectively.
Stationary Combo
Use this combo when a monster is immobilized by status effects like paralysis. It involves a Wide Slash followed by a Rising Slash, repeating twice for a quick four-hit sequence. While not the most damaging, it maintains pressure on the monster.
Related: How to Capture Monsters in Monster Hunter Wild
Guard and Counters
The Great Sword's ability to block and counterattack in *Monster Hunter Wilds* is a vital skill for any hunter.
Offset Rising Slash
While effective for reaching high targets, the Rising Slash shines as a counter. Pressing Triangle/Y and Circle/B together initiates the slash, but holding them charges it. Release just as a monster attacks to knock it down and follow up with a Cross Slash. Timing is crucial to avoid taking damage.
Guarding
Holding R2/RT activates the Great Sword's guard, reducing damage at the cost of stamina. Perfect timing can lead to a Perfect Guard, negating all damage with visual and sound cues. However, it doesn't stop the monster, so chaining Perfect Guards is necessary against persistent attacks. Occasionally, a Perfect Guard can initiate a Power Clash, where mashing Circle/B can knock the monster down for further attacks.
This guide equips you with the knowledge to master the Great Sword in *Monster Hunter Wilds*. For more tips and strategies, be sure to explore additional resources on The Escapist.
Monster Hunter Wilds is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.
