In the vast and thrilling world of *Monster Hunter Wilds*, the Hunting Horn stands out as a unique and powerful weapon. While it might initially seem odd to see hunters wielding a musical instrument in battle, those who master the Hunting Horn will find it to be a versatile and impactful tool. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to maximize your effectiveness with the Hunting Horn in *Monster Hunter Wilds*.
Hunting Horn in Monster Hunter Wilds
The Hunting Horn is not just a blunt weapon; it's a symphony of buffs that can enhance your performance and that of your allies. It's all about mastering melodies and using them strategically to gain the upper hand in battle.
All Moves
| Command | Move | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Triangle/Y | Left Swing | A basic attack that produces Note 1 on the musical staff. Use it with a direction to perform a Forward Smash. |
| Circle/B | Right Swing | A basic attack that produces Note 2 on the musical staff. |
| Analog Direction + Circle/B | Flourish | An attack that produces Note 2 on the musical staff. Pressing Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B during the attack will allow you to produce another note. |
| Triangle/Y + Circle/B | Backwards Strike | A basic attack that produces Note 3 on the musical staff. It allows hunters to easily hit a target behind them, and will move hunters backwards as they attack. |
| Analog Direction + Triangle/Y + Circle/B | Overhead Smash | An attack that produces Note 3 on the musical staff. Pressing Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B during the attack will allow you to produce another note. |
| Backwards Analog Direction + Triangle/Y or Circle/B or Triangle/Y + Circle/B during combo | Hilt Stab | A quick attack that produces a note on the musical staff. The attack can be used after a number of different attacks, with Triangle/Y, Circle/B, and Triangle/Y + Circle/B producing their own note. |
| R2/RT | Perform | An attack that activates Melody Effect. Stocked melodies will be performed in order, but a specific melody can be selected using R2/RT + Triangle/Y or Circle/B. While performing multiple melodies, press R2/RT for a powerful Performance Beat. Then play an Encore (Triangle/Y + Circle/B) to boost and extend Melody Effects. The power of a Performance Beat and Encore will increase if you time them with the activation of Melody Effects. |
| R2/RT + Cross/A | Echo Bubble | A special attack that produces an Echo Bubble. The type of Echo Bubble created is determined by the Hunting Horn equipped. When creating an Echo Bubble, players can produce up to three notes with either Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B. |
| R2/RT + Triangle/Y + Circle/B with Melody Stocked | Special Performance | Unlike normal performances, Special Performances will play the unique Melody Effect associated with the Hunting Horn equipped. Once stocked, this melody will not be overwritten by new melodies. |
| L2/LT + R1/RB | Focus Strike: Reverb | A Performance attack effective against wounds. Players can produce up to five notes with either Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B while performing. Playing the notes at the right time will deal additional damage. |
Combos
Beyond the auditory assault on monsters, the Hunting Horn is also a formidable blunt weapon. Here are some essential combos to incorporate into your gameplay:
Overhead Smash Combo
This staple combo is a must-have in your arsenal. Simply move forward with the analog stick and press Triangle/Y + Circle/B twice to execute the Overhead Smash and its Follow-up Attack. Consistent use can stun monsters, so aim carefully and strike with force.
Performance Combo
Once you've stacked your desired songs, it's time to perform. This combo not only activates your melodies but also enhances your damage output. Move forward with the analog stick, press R2/RT to initiate Perform, and follow up with Triangle/Y + Circle/B for an Encore to boost and extend your Melody Effects.
Echo Bubble Combo
Leverage the unique Echo Bubble mechanic in this combo, which is particularly effective against incapacitated enemies. Start with the Echo Bubble (Cross/A + R2/RT), then follow with Triangle/Y, Circle/B, Circle/B for the Echo Wave (Blunt), then R2/RT for Perform, and finish with an Encore using Triangle/Y + Circle/B.
Related: How to Capture Monsters in Monster Hunter Wild
Hunting Horn Tips
Mastering the Hunting Horn involves not only playing melodies but also timing your damage output effectively, especially in cooperative play.
All About the Notes
Understanding how to build songs with different notes is crucial. Each Hunting Horn has unique songs that require specific note combinations. Keep an eye on the top right corner of your screen to see which command corresponds to the needed note. Moves like Flourish and Overhead Smash allow you to add an additional note during the attack, facilitating your desired song creation. You can also play notes while riding your Seikret to form melodies on the move.
Buff City
Once you're adept at note management, focus on stacking them for songs. You can play multiple songs consecutively to benefit from various buffs. Ensure the buffs are appropriate for your current situation, and remember that performing them takes time.
Echo Chamber
Utilize Echo Bubbles as much as possible to create a strategic battlefield. Not only do they provide three more note inputs, but they also amplify your damage and increase Evasion and Movement Speed within their area. Always use Echo Bubbles before attacking, especially in High Rank hunts, to enhance your survivability.
Self-Improvement is Key
The Self-Improvement skill, available on all Hunting Horns, should be prioritized to at least level 2. This skill boosts your attacks by 20%, increasing your damage potential and reducing the time needed to affect monsters.
Always be Prepared With Special Performances
Keep a Special Performance stocked and ready. For instance, the Offset Melody can be prepared and held until the perfect moment. When a monster attacks, input the Special Performance command (R2/RT + Triangle/Y + Circle/B) and hold the stance, releasing it just as the monster strikes to knock it down.
Mastering the Hunting Horn in Monster Hunter Wilds requires a blend of strategic note management, timely buff application, and effective use of its unique mechanics. With these tips and combos, you'll be well on your way to becoming a maestro on the battlefield.
Monster Hunter Wilds is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.
