In the vast and immersive world of *Monster Hunter Wilds*, one of the most distinctive sights is the sight of hunters skillfully wielding the Hunting Horn. At first glance, it might seem unusual, but for Hunting Horn enthusiasts, its power is undeniable. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to maximize the potential of the Hunting Horn in *Monster Hunter Wilds*.
Hunting Horn in Monster Hunter Wilds
The Hunting Horn stands out as a unique blunt weapon capable of producing a variety of buffs that can significantly benefit both you and your allies. Mastering the Hunting Horn involves understanding and effectively utilizing its melodies to gain the upper hand in battles.
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
Image Source: Capcom via The Escapist
The Hunting Horn not only delivers melodic support but also packs a punch with its blunt force. Here are some essential combos to integrate into your gameplay strategy:
Overhead Smash Combo
A staple in your arsenal, the Overhead Smash Combo is achieved by moving forward with the analog stick and pressing Triangle/Y + Circle/B twice. This sequence unleashes the Overhead Smash followed by a Follow-up Attack, which can stun monsters if executed consistently.
Performance Combo
Once your desired melodies are stacked, initiate a Performance Combo to maximize your buffs. Move forward with the analog stick and press R2/RT to start Performing, then follow up with Triangle/Y + Circle/B for an Encore to enhance and prolong your Melody Effects.
Echo Bubble Combo
Leverage the unique Echo Bubble mechanic with this combo, ideal against incapacitated foes. Begin with the Echo Bubble (Cross/A + R2/RT), then proceed with Triangle/Y, Circle/B, Circle/B for Echo Wave (Blunt), followed by R2/RT for Perform, and finally, an Encore with Triangle/Y + Circle/B.
Related: How to Capture Monsters in Monster Hunter Wild
Hunting Horn Tips
Image Source: Capcom via The Escapist
To truly excel with the Hunting Horn, you must master the art of managing buffs and optimizing your damage output, especially when teaming up with other hunters.
All About the Notes
Understanding and mastering the notes is crucial, as each Hunting Horn has unique songs requiring specific note combinations. Keep an eye on the top right corner of your screen to see which command produces the needed note. Utilize moves like Flourish and Overhead Smash to add additional notes during your attacks, and take advantage of your Seikret to play notes while pursuing monsters.
Buff City
With a variety of songs at your disposal, stacking multiple buffs can be game-changing. Tailor your buffs to suit the current scenario, and remember that performing them will take time, so plan accordingly.
Echo Chamber
Maximize your use of Echo Bubbles to create a favorable battlefield. Not only do they provide three additional note inputs, but they also amplify your subsequent attacks. The increased Evasion and Movement Speed within the Echo Bubble enhance your survivability, making it essential for High Rank hunts.
Self-Improvement is Key
Ensure you always have the Self-Improvement skill at least at 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 example, the Offset Melody can be prepared and held until the perfect moment to use it. When a monster attacks, input the Special Performance command (R2/RT + Triangle/Y + Circle/B) and release it just as the monster strikes to knock it down.
That's all you need to know to master the Hunting Horn in Monster Hunter Wilds. For more tips and guides, be sure to check out The Escapist.
Monster Hunter Wilds is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.
