In the dynamic world of *Monster Hunter Wilds*, raw power isn't the only path to victory. Speed and strategic positioning can be just as crucial, especially when wielding the versatile Dual Blades. These weapons are perfect for those who thrive on quick, successive strikes, making them ideal for tackling even the most formidable monsters. Here's how to maximize your effectiveness with Dual Blades in *Monster Hunter Wilds*.
Dual Blades in Monster Hunter Wilds
The Dual Blades are renowned for their rapid and dangerous nature, allowing hunters to deliver multiple hits in quick succession. Mastering both their modes is essential for adapting to various combat scenarios on the battlefield.
All Moves
| Command | Move | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Triangle/Y | Double Slash/Circle Slash | A basic combo starter. Press Triangle/Y to perform a Double Slash, and follow up with Triangle/Y again to perform Circle Slash. |
| Circle/B | Lunging Strike/Roundslash | A slashing attack that advances in the direction of the analog stick. Press the command again for a Roundslash. |
| R2/RT | Demon Mode | Entering Demon Mode will boost the attack, movement speed, and evasion of hunters. It also grants immunity to knockbacks. |
| Triangle/Y + Circle/B (In Demon Mode) | Blade Dance I, II, III | In Demon Mode, these powerful attacks can be chained together and will consume the Demon Gauge. |
| Triangle/Y + Circle/B (In Archdemon Mode) | Demon Flurry I, II | A series of attacks that can only be unleashed in Archdemon Mode and consumes the Demon Gauge. Use the analog stick to control the direction. Players can chain both Demon Flurry and Blade Dance attacks together using R2/RT. |
| Cross/A (During Demon/Archdemon Mode) | Demon Dodge | In the respective modes, pressing the button will initiate a dodge that is faster than normal. A Perfect Evade will let players attack while dodging, and provide a short-term buff. Demon Dodge will not consume the Demon Gauge while in Demon Mode. |
| L2/LT + R1/RB | Focus Strike: Turning Tide | A slashing attack effective against wounds, hitting a monster’s wound will perform a Midair Spinning Blade Dance. This attack spans the length of the monster and can destroy multiple wounds. |
Demon Mode/Demon Gauge and Archdemon Mode
The Dual Blades feature a unique gauge mechanic that allows players to enter Demon Mode, enhancing attack, movement speed, and evasion while providing knockback immunity. However, this mode consumes stamina continuously and ends when stamina is depleted or manually canceled. By landing attacks in Demon Mode, the Demon Gauge fills up, and once full, players transition into Archdemon Mode. In this mode, the Demon Gauge depletes over time and is consumed by certain attacks, enabling hunters to execute powerful, gauge-consuming attacks. Both modes can be used interchangeably, and when mounted on a monster, the Demon Gauge stops decreasing, offering strategic advantages.
Demon Dodge
After a successful Perfect Evade, players can enter an empowered state known as Demon Dodge. This state increases regular and elemental damage and allows attacks during dodging. Demon Dodge provides a 12-second damage buff, and subsequent dodges cause damage as you spin forward.
Combos
The Dual Blades' combos revolve around Demon and Archdemon Modes, and understanding how to chain attacks is key to maximizing damage.
Basic Combo
Start with three consecutive Triangle/Y attacks to execute a Double Slash, Double Slash Return Stroke, and Circle Slash. This reliable combo is effective in various hunting scenarios. Alternatively, use the Circle/B Demon Flurry Rush – Spinning Slash – Double Roundslash combo to quickly fill your Demon Gauge.
Demon Mode Basic Combo
In Demon Mode, your basic combo becomes more potent and faster. Begin with Demon Fangs, followed by Twofold Demon Slash, and Sixfold Demon Slash, then finish with Triangle/Y + Circle/B for Demon Flurry I.
Archdemon Mode Blade Dance Combo
Once the Demon Gauge is full, enter Archdemon Mode for swift, concentrated attacks. Start with Blade Dance (Triangle/Y + Circle/B) in Demon Mode, then press R2/RT four times for Demon Flurry I into Blade Dance II, and conclude with Demon Flurry II and Blade Dance III. This seamless transition between modes delivers significant damage quickly.
Related: How to Capture Monsters in Monster Hunter Wild
Dual Blade Tips
Mastering the Dual Blades involves fluidly switching between modes to maximize damage potential.
Always Follow Up
Initiate with the basic Demon Flurry Rush combo (Circle/B + Circle/B + Circle/B), then transition into a full Demon or Archdemon Mode combo with three sets of Triangle/Y + Circle/B. This approach efficiently fills the Demon Gauge and converts it into rapid damage, a feat unmatched by weapons like the Great Sword.
Keep Your Stamina Up
Since Demon Mode relies on stamina, maintaining a healthy reserve is crucial. While you can exit the mode to recover, using Focus Strike on wounds can temporarily halt stamina drain while still filling the Demon Gauge, preparing you for more aggressive attacks upon landing.
Dodging in Between Attacks
Without a reliable defense, dodging is your primary survival tool. The Dual Blades offer exceptional mobility, allowing you to dodge out of most attacks and combos. Avoid overcommitting and wait for the right moment to strike, leveraging the quick animations to your advantage.
Ensure Sharpness
The relentless attacks of the Dual Blades can quickly dull their sharpness. Incorporating the Speed Sharpening skill into your build can save time, allowing you to swiftly return to combat.
That’s all you need to know about mastering the Dual Blades in *Monster Hunter Wilds*. For more tips and strategies, be sure to check out The Escapist.
*Monster Hunter Wilds is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.*
