The *Monster Hunter* series shines brightest in its diverse arsenal of weapons, and mastering the Great Sword in *Monster Hunter Wilds* delivers immensely satisfying combat payoff. This guide breaks down everything hunters need to dominate with this powerhouse weapon.
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Mastering the Great Sword in Monster Hunter Wilds
True to its name, the Great Sword trades speed for raw destructive potential. A single perfectly-timed swing can cripple even the mightiest wyverns, but understanding its nuanced mechanics separates casual wielders from true masters. As you progress, upgrading unlocks devastating elemental enhancements.
Comprehensive Move List
| Input | Action | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Triangle/Y | Overhead Slash | Quick initiating attack that flows into charged combos |
| Hold Triangle/Y | Charge Attack | Builds devastating power through charging phases |
| Hold Triangle/Y + Circle/B | Tackle | Damage-resistant move that interrupts monster attacks |
| Circle/B | Wide Slash | Sweeping attack with excellent coverage |
| Triangle/Y + Circle/B | Rising Slash | Vertical strike ideal for hitting elevated weak points |
| Hold Triangle/Y + Circle/B | Counter Rising Slash | Timed counterattack that can stagger monsters |
| R2/RT | Guard | Basic block (adjustable directionally) |
| R2/RT + Triangle/Y | Kick | Quick disrupting move from guard |
| L2/LT + R1/RB | Focus Slash | Multi-hit wounding attack (early cancel available) |
Essential Combat Combos
Master these sequences to maximize your damage output against *Monster Hunter Wilds*' fearsome beasts.
True Charged Slash Sequence
Execute consecutive Triangle/Y presses to unleash:
- Basic Overhead Slash
- Strong Charged Slash
- Devastating True Charged Slash
Charge levels (indicated by white→yellow→red flashes) exponentially increase damage. Striking wounded areas activates True Charged Slash (Power), dealing bonus damage.
Mobile Slash Chain
Three Circle/B inputs create:
- Wide Slash
- Tackle
- Leaping Wide Slash
This mobile combo excels against agile targets while maintaining pressure.
Stationary Punish Sequence
Against paralyzed/stunned monsters:
- Wide Slash
- Rising Slash (repeated)
While lower-damage, this quick 4-hit combo maintains relentless offense.
Related: Monster Capturing Guide for Wilds
Defensive Techniques
Counter Rising Slash
Perfectly timed releases:
- Charge Rising Slash
- Release at attack impact
- Follow with Cross Slash
Demands precise timing but rewards with knockdown opportunities.
Guard Mechanics
Basic guarding (R2/RT) reduces damage at stamina cost. Master Perfect Guards:
- Activate guard at moment of impact
- Negates all damage
- Chance for Power Clash mini-game
Successfully mashing Circle/B during Power Clash earns knock-down rewards.
With these techniques mastered, no monster stands a chance against your honed Great Sword skills.
For more *Monster Hunter Wilds* strategy guides, stay tuned to The Escapist.
*Monster Hunter Wilds available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.*
