Mastering Hunting Horn in Monster Hunter Wilds: Moves and Combos Guide
In the vibrant world of *Monster Hunter Wilds*, one of the most distinctive elements is the Hunting Horn, a weapon that combines brute force with melodic buffs. For those who master its unique rhythm, the Hunting Horn can be a game-changer, offering both offensive prowess and supportive melodies. Here’s how to maximize the potential of the Hunting Horn in *Monster Hunter Wilds*.
All Moves
Command | Move | Description |
---|---|---|
Triangle/Y | Left Swing | A basic attack that produces 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 produces Note 2 on the musical staff. |
Analog Direction + Circle/B | Flourish | An attack that produces Note 2 on the musical staff. During the attack, pressing Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B allows for an additional note. |
Triangle/Y + Circle/B | Backwards Strike | A basic attack that produces Note 3 on the musical staff. It enables hunters to strike targets behind them while moving backward. |
Analog Direction + Triangle/Y + Circle/B | Overhead Smash | An attack that produces Note 3 on the musical staff. During the attack, pressing Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B allows for an additional 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. It can be used after various attacks, with different buttons producing different notes. |
R2/RT | Perform | An attack that activates Melody Effects. Stocked melodies are performed in order, but a specific melody can be selected 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 boost and extend Melody Effects. Timing Performance Beats and Encores with Melody Effect activations increases their power. |
R2/RT + Cross/A | Echo Bubble | A special attack that produces an Echo Bubble. The type depends on the equipped Hunting Horn. Up to three notes can be produced with Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B during creation. |
R2/RT + Triangle/Y + Circle/B with Melody Stocked | Special Performance | Unlike normal performances, Special Performances play the unique Melody Effect of the equipped Hunting Horn. Once stocked, this melody cannot be overwritten. |
L2/LT + R1/RB | Focus Strike: Reverb | A Performance attack effective against wounds. Up to five notes can be produced with Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B while performing. Playing notes at the right time deals additional damage. |
Combos
Image Source: Capcom via The Escapist
The Hunting Horn isn't just about melodies; it's a formidable blunt weapon too. Here are essential combos to weave into your gameplay:
Overhead Smash Combo
This essential combo involves moving forward with the analog stick and pressing Triangle/Y + Circle/B twice to execute the Overhead Smash and its follow-up. Consistent use can stun monsters, so aim carefully and strike with precision.
Performance Combo
After stacking your desired songs, initiate a performance by moving forward and pressing R2/RT. Follow up with Triangle/Y + Circle/B for an Encore, enhancing and prolonging your Melody Effects while adding extra damage.
Echo Bubble Combo
Leverage the unique Echo Bubble mechanic in this combo, ideal against incapacitated foes. Begin with the Echo Bubble (Cross/A + R2/RT), then follow with Triangle/Y, Circle/B, Circle/B for the Echo Wave (Blunt), R2/RT to Perform, and 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
Mastering the Hunting Horn requires skillful management of buffs and timing your damage for maximum impact, especially in cooperative play.
All About the Notes
Understanding and building songs with different notes is crucial. Each Hunting Horn has unique songs requiring specific note combinations. Monitor the top right corner of the screen to see which command produces the needed note. Utilize attacks like Flourish and Overhead Smash to add extra notes during the attack, facilitating song creation. While riding your Seikret, you can also play the necessary notes to form melodies.
Buff City
Once you're familiar with the notes, stack them to create songs. Playing multiple songs in succession allows you to benefit from various buffs. Ensure the buffs match your current scenario, considering the time required to perform them.
Echo Chamber
Always use Echo Bubbles to your advantage. They not only add three more note inputs but also amplify your damage output. Echo Bubbles also boost Evasion and Movement Speed, enhancing your survivability, especially during High Rank hunts.
Self-Improvement is Key
Leverage the Self-Improvement skill available on all Hunting Horns. Aim for at least level 2 to boost your attacks by 20%, ensuring quicker monster takedowns.
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, input the Special Performance command (R2/RT + Triangle/Y + Circle/B), hold the stance, and release it as the monster strikes to knock it down.
That’s all you need to know about mastering the Hunting Horn in Monster Hunter Wilds. For more tips and strategies, visit The Escapist.
Monster Hunter Wilds is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.






