In the diverse world of *Monster Hunter Wilds*, the Hunting Horn stands out with its unique blend of combat and support capabilities. For those dedicated to mastering this instrument of war, understanding its nuances can transform you from a mere player into a maestro of the battlefield. Here’s your guide to unleashing the full potential of the Hunting Horn in *Monster Hunter Wilds*.
All Moves
Command | Move | Description |
---|---|---|
Triangle/Y | Left Swing | A basic attack that generates Note 1 on the musical staff. When combined with a directional input, it becomes a Forward Smash. |
Circle/B | Right Swing | A basic attack that generates Note 2 on the musical staff. |
Analog Direction + Circle/B | Flourish | An attack that generates Note 2. During this move, pressing Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B will allow you to add another note. |
Triangle/Y + Circle/B | Backwards Strike | A basic attack that generates Note 3. It's effective for hitting targets behind you while simultaneously moving you backward. |
Analog Direction + Triangle/Y + Circle/B | Overhead Smash | An attack that generates Note 3. During this move, pressing Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B will allow you to add another note. |
Backwards Analog Direction + Triangle/Y or Circle/B or Triangle/Y + Circle/B during combo | Hilt Stab | A quick attack that generates a note. This can be executed after various attacks, with each input (Triangle/Y, Circle/B, Triangle/Y + Circle/B) producing a unique note. |
R2/RT | Perform | An attack that activates Melody Effects. Melodies are performed in sequence, but you can select a specific melody with R2/RT + Triangle/Y or Circle/B. During multiple melodies, press R2/RT for a powerful Performance Beat, followed by an Encore (Triangle/Y + Circle/B) to enhance and extend Melody Effects. The potency of Performance Beat and Encore increases when timed with Melody Effects activation. |
R2/RT + Cross/A | Echo Bubble | A special attack that creates an Echo Bubble, determined by the equipped Hunting Horn. During its creation, you can generate up to three notes with Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B. |
R2/RT + Triangle/Y + Circle/B with Melody Stocked | Special Performance | Distinct from normal performances, this activates the unique Melody Effect of the equipped Hunting Horn. Once stocked, this melody won't be overwritten by new melodies. |
L2/LT + R1/RB | Focus Strike: Reverb | A performance attack that's effective against wounds. During the move, you can generate up to five notes with Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B. Timing these notes correctly will increase damage output. |
Combos
Beyond its musical prowess, the Hunting Horn delivers formidable blunt force. Here are some essential combos to master:
Overhead Smash Combo
A staple in any Hunting Horn player's arsenal, this combo is executed by moving forward with the analog stick and pressing Triangle/Y + Circle/B twice. This sequence unleashes the Overhead Smash and its follow-up, potentially stunning your target with consistent application.
Performance Combo
Once you've prepared your desired songs, initiate a performance combo to maximize both buffs and damage. Move forward and press R2/RT to start performing, then follow up with Triangle/Y + Circle/B for an Encore, boosting and extending your Melody Effects.
Echo Bubble Combo
Leveraging the Hunting Horn's unique Echo Bubble mechanic, this combo shines against incapacitated foes. Begin with the Echo Bubble (Cross/A + R2/RT), then follow with Triangle/Y, Circle/B, Circle/B for an Echo Wave (Blunt), and finish with R2/RT to Perform, and 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 just playing notes but orchestrating your team's success through strategic buff management and timing your attacks for maximum impact.
All About the Notes
To harness the power of the Hunting Horn, familiarize yourself with the notes required to build your songs. Each Hunting Horn offers unique melodies, and constructing them requires specific note combinations. Keep an eye on the top right corner of your screen to identify the notes you need.
Moves like Flourish and Overhead Smash can add an extra note during their execution, facilitating your melody creation. Even while mounted on your Seikret in pursuit of a monster, you can still play the necessary notes to form your songs.
Buff City
Once you're adept with notes, stack them to create songs. Playing multiple songs back-to-back can yield a variety of buffs, so tailor your performances to the current situation. Remember, performing takes time, so plan your sequences wisely.
Echo Chamber
Utilize Echo Bubbles as often as possible to gain an advantage. Not only do they allow three additional note inputs, but they also amplify subsequent attack damage. The increased Evasion and Movement Speed within the Echo Bubble enhance your survivability, making it crucial for High Rank hunts.
Self-Improvement is Key
The Self-Improvement skill, inherent in all Hunting Horns, should be prioritized to at least level 2 for a 20% attack boost. This enhancement significantly increases your damage output and reduces the time needed to subdue monsters.
Always be Prepared With Special Performances
Keep a Special Performance ready at all times. For instance, having the Offset Melody prepared means it won't be overwritten, allowing you to deploy it strategically. When a monster initiates an attack, execute the Special Performance (R2/RT + Triangle/Y + Circle/B), and release it at the moment of impact to potentially knock the monster down.
That’s all you need to know about mastering the Hunting Horn in Monster Hunter Wilds. Be sure to visit The Escapist for more tips and guides to enhance your gameplay experience.
Monster Hunter Wilds is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.