In the vast and thrilling world of *Monster Hunter Wilds*, the Hunting Horn stands out as a unique and powerful weapon that combines brute force with musical magic. For those looking to master this instrument of destruction, here’s a comprehensive guide on how to maximize its potential.
Hunting Horn in Monster Hunter Wilds
The Hunting Horn is a versatile blunt weapon that not only deals significant damage but also provides a variety of buffs to you and your allies. Mastering the art of melody composition and performance is key to turning the tide of battle in your favor.
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
Overhead Smash Combo
A staple combo that you should master, simply move forward with the analog stick and press Triangle/Y + Circle/B twice to perform the Overhead Smash and its follow-up attack. This can stun monsters if executed correctly, so aim carefully and strike with precision.
Performance Combo
After stacking your desired songs, initiate a performance combo for enhanced damage. Move forward with the analog stick, press R2/RT to start the Perform action, and follow up with Triangle/Y + Circle/B for an Encore to amplify and prolong your Melody Effects.
Echo Bubble Combo
Utilize the unique Echo Bubble mechanic in this combo, which is particularly effective against incapacitated foes. Begin with the Echo Bubble (Cross/A + R2/RT), then follow up with Triangle/Y, Circle/B, Circle/B for an Echo Wave (Blunt), and conclude with R2/RT for Perform and an Encore using Triangle/Y + Circle/B.
Hunting Horn Tips
All About the Notes
Mastering the Hunting Horn involves understanding the notes that form your melodies. Each Hunting Horn has unique songs requiring specific note combinations. Keep an eye on the top right corner of the screen to see which command produces the needed note. Moves like Flourish and Overhead Smash allow you to add additional notes, making it easier to craft your desired melodies. Even while riding your Seikret, you can play the necessary notes to build your songs.
Buff City
Once you're comfortable with the notes, focus on stacking them to play multiple songs and benefit from various buffs. Choose your buffs wisely based on the current battle scenario, and remember that performing them takes time, so plan accordingly.
Echo Chamber
Always leverage Echo Bubbles to create an advantageous battlefield. They not only provide three additional note inputs but also boost your attack damage. The increased Evasion and Movement Speed within the Echo Bubble also enhance your survivability, making them crucial, especially in High Rank hunts.
Self-Improvement is Key
The Self-Improvement skill, available on all Hunting Horns, should be activated at least to level 2 to boost your attacks by 20%. This increase in damage potential will help you bring down monsters more efficiently.
Always be Prepared With Special Performances
Keep a Special Performance ready at all times. For instance, the Offset Melody can be prepared and held until the perfect moment. When a monster attacks, use the Special Performance command (R2/RT + Triangle/Y + Circle/B) and time your release to counter the monster's attack, potentially knocking it down.
With these strategies and tips, you'll be well on your way to mastering the Hunting Horn in *Monster Hunter Wilds*. For more guidance on the game, be sure to check out resources at The Escapist.
*Monster Hunter Wilds is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.*
