In the dynamic world of *Monster Hunter Wilds*, victory isn't solely determined by brute strength. Speed and strategic positioning can be just as crucial, especially when wielding the agile Dual Blades. These weapons excel in delivering rapid, successive strikes, making them perfect for hunters who thrive on agility and precision. Here's how you can maximize the potential of the Dual Blades in *Monster Hunter Wilds*.
Dual Blades in Monster Hunter Wilds
The Dual Blades are renowned for their swift and dangerous nature, offering versatility on the battlefield through their ability to execute multiple quick hits. Mastering both of their modes is key to being prepared for any encounter.
All Moves
| Command | Move | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Triangle/Y | Double Slash/Circle Slash | Initiate your combo with a Double Slash by pressing Triangle/Y, and continue with another press for a Circle Slash. |
| Circle/B | Lunging Strike/Roundslash | Advance with a slashing attack by pressing Circle/B, and press again for a Roundslash. |
| R2/RT | Demon Mode | Activate Demon Mode to enhance your attack, movement speed, and evasion, while gaining immunity to knockbacks. |
| Triangle/Y + Circle/B (In Demon Mode) | Blade Dance I, II, III | Chain powerful attacks in Demon Mode that consume the Demon Gauge. |
| Triangle/Y + Circle/B (In Archdemon Mode) | Demon Flurry I, II | Unleash a series of attacks exclusive to Archdemon Mode, consuming the Demon Gauge, and control the direction with the analog stick. Chain with R2/RT for combined Demon Flurry and Blade Dance. |
| Cross/A (During Demon/Archdemon Mode) | Demon Dodge | Initiate a faster dodge in Demon or Archdemon Mode. A Perfect Evade allows attacking while dodging and provides a short-term buff. Demon Dodge in Demon Mode does not consume the Demon Gauge. |
| L2/LT + R1/RB | Focus Strike: Turning Tide | Execute a slashing attack effective against wounds. Hitting a monster's wound leads to a Midair Spinning Blade Dance, capable of destroying multiple wounds across the monster's length. |
Demon Mode/Demon Gauge and Archdemon Mode
The Dual Blades feature a unique Demon Gauge mechanic. In Demon Mode, hunters gain increased attack power, movement speed, and evasion, along with knockback immunity. However, this mode drains stamina continuously and ends when stamina is depleted or manually canceled. By landing hits in Demon Mode, you fill the Demon Gauge, and once full, you transition to Archdemon Mode. In this mode, the gauge depletes over time, and certain attacks consume it, allowing for enhanced, powerful strikes. Both modes can be used interchangeably, and the gauge stops decreasing when you mount a monster, giving you time to strategize your next move.
Demon Dodge
After a successful Perfect Evade, enter an empowered state with Demon Dodge, which increases regular and elemental damage and allows attacking while dodging. This state grants a 12-second damage buff, with subsequent dodges dealing damage as you spin forward.
Combos
The Dual Blades' combos revolve around Demon and Archdemon Modes, allowing hunters to chain attacks for maximum damage.
Basic Combo
Execute a basic combo by chaining three Triangle/Y attacks: Double Slash, Double Slash Return Stroke, and Circle Slash. This provides consistent damage 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, enhance your basic combo with Demon Fangs, Twofold Demon Slash, and Sixfold Demon Slash, finishing with Triangle/Y + Circle/B for Demon Flurry I, resulting in faster and more powerful attacks.
Archdemon Mode Blade Dance Combo
Once your Demon Gauge is full, switch to Archdemon Mode for swift, high-damage combos. Begin with Blade Dance (Triangle/Y + Circle/B) in Demon Mode, follow with four R2/RT presses for Demon Flurry I into Blade Dance II, and conclude with Demon Flurry II and Blade Dance III. This seamless transition between modes delivers rapid, devastating damage.
Related: How to Capture Monsters in Monster Hunter Wild
Dual Blade Tips
Mastering the Dual Blades involves fluidly transitioning between Demon and Archdemon Modes to maximize damage output.
Always Follow Up
Start 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 fills your Demon Gauge and converts it into swift, high-impact damage.
Keep Your Stamina Up
Demon Mode relies on stamina, so maintaining reserves is crucial. Exit the mode to recover, or use Focus Strike on wounds to halt stamina drain while filling the Demon Gauge, preparing you for more aggressive attacks.
Dodging in Between Attacks
Without a reliable defense, dodging is your best strategy. The Dual Blades offer superior mobility, allowing you to dodge out of most attacks and combos. Avoid overcommitting and wait for the right moment to strike.
Ensure Sharpness
The constant attacks of the Dual Blades quickly reduce sharpness. Utilize the Speed Sharpening skill in your build to minimize downtime and stay in the fight longer.
Mastering the Dual Blades in *Monster Hunter Wilds* requires understanding their unique mechanics and leveraging their speed and versatility. For more tips and guides, be sure to check out The Escapist.
*Monster Hunter Wilds is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.*
