One of the most exciting aspects of the *Monster Hunter* series is the diverse range of weapons at your disposal, each offering unique gameplay mechanics. If you're eager to master the Great Sword in *Monster Hunter Wilds*, this comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge to dominate the battlefield.
Best Way to Use the Sword in Monster Hunter Wilds
The Long Sword stands out as a versatile weapon, blending speed with substantial damage potential. It allows for seamless chaining of combos and includes counterattacks for defensive play, making it a favorite among hunters looking for both agility and power.
All Moves
| Command | Move | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Triangle/Y | Standard Attack | Spirit Blade attacks are slashing moves that use the Spirit Gauge. The direction of Spirit Blade I and II can be adjusted with the analog stick. |
| Circle/B | Thrust | Follow up with Circle/B after Thrust for a Rising Slash. |
| R2/RT | Spirit Blade I | Spirit Blade attacks consume the Spirit Gauge and can be directed with the analog stick. |
| R2/RT x 4 | Spirit Blade Combo | A series of Spirit Blade attacks that use the Spirit Gauge, with directional control via the analog stick. |
| Holding R2/RT | Spirit Charge | Charging fills the Spirit Gauge, enabling a Spirit Blade attack. The attack level depends on charge duration. A full charge unleashes a Spirit Roundslash, which, if the gauge is red, prevents knockback from monster attacks. |
| Triangle/Y + Circle/B | Fade Slash | A backward slashing attack with direction controlled by the analog stick. |
| R2/RT + Circle/B During Combo | Foresight Slash | A mid-combo attack with a large invulnerability window. It consumes the Spirit Gauge but refills it completely upon successfully dodging and countering a monster's attack. It can be followed by a Spirit Roundslash or, if the gauge is red, a Foresight Whirl Slash. |
| R2/RT + Triangle/Y | Spirit Thrust | Reduces the Spirit Gauge by one level but allows chaining into a Spirit Helm Breaker. Follow up with a Spirit Release Slash when the gauge is red, and use Square/X to cancel the Spirit Helm Breaker. |
| R2/RT + Cross/A | Special Sheath | Sheathes your weapon, preparing for special moves. |
| After Special Sheath, Triangle/Y | Iai Slash | Automatically fills the Spirit Gauge for a short period after landing the attack. |
| After Special Sheath, R2/RT | Iai Spirit Slash | Time this move with an enemy's attack to counter and raise the Spirit Gauge by one level. |
| L2/LT + R1/RB | Focus Strike: Unbound Thrust | Effective against wounds, hitting them increases the Spirit Gauge by one level. More wounds destroyed mean more gauge levels. Direction can be changed with the analog stick. |
Spirit Gauge
The Spirit Gauge is a crucial element unique to the Long Sword in *Monster Hunter Wilds*. It enhances the weapon's damage potential, with higher levels leading to increased damage and powerful follow-up attacks. To fill the gauge, land attacks on monsters, and to level it up, use Spirit Blade attacks, culminating in a Spirit Roundslash or a Focus Strike. A red gauge extends the duration of these powerful attacks.
Damage increases by Spirit Gauge level:
- White – 1.02x
- Yellow – 1.04x
- Red – 1.1x
Combos
Spirit Gauge Filling Combo/Spirit Gauge Leveling
Quickly fill the Spirit Gauge to its maximum by chaining four Overhead Slashes with Triangle/Y. This setup enables Spirit Blade attacks to elevate the gauge's level. The key is a four-chain of R2/RT presses, landing the final Spirit Roundslash to advance the gauge.
Crimson Slash Combo
When the Spirit Gauge is at its maximum and red, your basic attacks transform into Crimson Slashes. Chain three of these with Triangle/Y for a swift, high-damage combo.
Stationary Combo
With a maxed-out Spirit Gauge, execute a stationary combo with Triangle/Y + Circle/B + Triangle/Y. This sequence delivers a Crimson Slash after a Rising Slash, finishing with another Crimson Slash, allowing you to deal damage without the need to reposition.
Long Sword Tips
Spirit Charge
Initiate a Spirit Charge by holding R2/RT. A fully charged move allows for an immediate Spirit Roundslash, boosting the Spirit Gauge. Ensure safety while charging.
Spirit Helm Breaker/Spirit Release Slash
The Spirit Helm Breaker delivers the highest damage. Use Crimson Slashes before attempting this move. After hitting with a Spirit Thrust, follow up with the Spirit Helm Breaker and then R2/RT for a Spirit Release Slash for high-speed, high-damage output, especially effective with team support.
Free Spirit Gauge Levels
Target wounds with the Focus Strike to gain immediate Spirit Gauge levels. Hitting multiple wounds can quickly elevate the gauge to red. Even one wound can be beneficial, allowing for an immediate Spirit Blade combo and a Spirit Blade Roundhouse to further increase the gauge.
Countering with Iai Spirit Slash
Without a blocking ability, speed is your defense. Use the Iai Spirit Slash from Special Sheathe to counter monster attacks. After an attack, press R2/RT and Cross/A for Special Sheathe, then time the Iai Spirit Slash to avoid damage and retaliate effectively.
With these strategies, you're well on your way to mastering the Long Sword in *Monster Hunter Wilds*. For more tips and guides, check out The Escapist's coverage of the game.
*Monster Hunter Wilds is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.*
