In the thrilling world of *Monster Hunter Wilds*, victory isn't solely about brute strength. Speed and strategic positioning can be just as crucial, especially when wielding the agile Dual Blades. These weapons are perfect for players who thrive on rapid, successive strikes, making them ideal for taking down even the most formidable beasts. Here’s how to master the Dual Blades and turn your agility into a lethal advantage.
Dual Blades in Monster Hunter Wilds
The Dual Blades are renowned for their speed and versatility, allowing hunters to unleash a flurry of attacks that can overwhelm monsters. Mastering both their standard and specialized modes will prepare you for any challenge on the battlefield.
All Moves
Command | Move | Description |
---|---|---|
Triangle/Y | Double Slash/Circle Slash | Initiate combat with a basic combo. Press Triangle/Y for a Double Slash, followed by another Triangle/Y for a Circle Slash. |
Circle/B | Lunging Strike/Roundslash | Advance with a slashing attack in the direction of the analog stick. Press again for a Roundslash. |
R2/RT | Demon Mode | Activate Demon Mode to boost attack, movement speed, and evasion, while gaining immunity to knockbacks. |
Triangle/Y + Circle/B (In Demon Mode) | Blade Dance I, II, III | Chain these powerful attacks in Demon Mode, consuming the Demon Gauge. |
Triangle/Y + Circle/B (In Archdemon Mode) | Demon Flurry I, II | Unleash a series of attacks exclusive to Archdemon Mode, using the analog stick for directional control. These attacks also consume the Demon Gauge. |
Cross/A (During Demon/Archdemon Mode) | Demon Dodge | Execute a faster dodge in either mode. A Perfect Evade allows for attacks during dodging and grants a short-term buff. Demon Dodge does not consume the Demon Gauge in Demon Mode. |
L2/LT + R1/RB | Focus Strike: Turning Tide | Perform a slashing attack that targets wounds. Hitting a monster’s wound triggers a Midair Spinning Blade Dance, capable of destroying multiple wounds across the monster. |
Demon Mode/Demon Gauge and Archdemon Mode
The Dual Blades feature a unique gauge mechanic. Entering Demon Mode enhances your attack, movement speed, and evasion, while providing knockback immunity. However, this mode continuously depletes your stamina and will end if you cancel it manually or run out of stamina. Successfully attacking in Demon Mode fills the Demon Gauge, and once full, you transition to Archdemon Mode. In this mode, the gauge depletes over time and with specific attacks, allowing for powerful, gauge-consuming strikes. Both modes can be used interchangeably, and mounting a monster will halt the gauge’s decrease, offering strategic advantages.
Demon Dodge
Achieving a Perfect Evade in Demon or Archdemon Mode activates Demon Dodge, boosting your regular and elemental damage. This state allows for attacks during dodges and provides a 12-second damage buff. Subsequent dodges will deal damage as you spin forward, enhancing your offensive capabilities.
Combos
Image Source: Capcom via The Escapist
The Dual Blades' combos are designed around the transitions between Demon and Archdemon Modes, enabling hunters to chain attacks for maximum damage.
Basic Combo
Start with three consecutive Triangle/Y attacks to execute a reliable sequence: Double Slash, Double Slash Return Stroke, and Circle Slash. This is ideal for consistent damage in various combat scenarios. Alternatively, use the Circle/B Demon Flurry Rush – Spinning Slash – Double Roundslash combo to quickly fill the Demon Gauge.
Demon Mode Basic Combo
In Demon Mode, your basic combo becomes more potent and swift. Begin with Demon Fangs, followed by Twofold Demon Slash and Sixfold Demon Slash, and conclude with Triangle/Y + Circle/B for Demon Flurry I.
Archdemon Mode Blade Dance Combo
Once your Demon Gauge is full, switch to Archdemon Mode for concentrated, swift attacks. Start with Blade Dance (Triangle/Y + Circle/B) in Demon Mode, then press R2/RT four more times for Demon Flurry I into Blade Dance II, and finish with Demon Flurry II and Blade Dance III. This seamless transition between modes maximizes damage output.
Related: How to Capture Monsters in Monster Hunter Wild
Dual Blade Tips
Image Source: Capcom via The Escapist
Mastering the Dual Blades involves fluidly transitioning between modes to maximize damage potential.
Always Follow Up
Begin with the basic Demon Flurry Rush combo (Circle/B + Circle/B + Circle/B), then transition into a full Demon or Archdemon Mode combo with three sets of Triangle/Y + Circle/B. This strategy rapidly fills your Demon Gauge and converts it into swift, damaging attacks.
Keep Your Stamina Up
Since Demon Mode relies on your stamina, maintaining ample reserves is crucial. While you can exit the mode to recover, using Focus Strike on monster wounds can pause stamina drain and fill the Demon Gauge, preparing you for aggressive follow-ups.
Dodging in Between Attacks
Without reliable defensive options, dodging becomes your primary survival tool. The Dual Blades offer superior mobility, allowing you to dodge out of most attacks and combos. Avoid overcommitting and watch for openings to strike.
Ensure Sharpness
The relentless nature of Dual Blades attacks can quickly degrade sharpness. Incorporate the Speed Sharpening skill into your build to minimize downtime and stay in the fight longer.
With these strategies, you're well on your way to mastering the Dual Blades in *Monster Hunter Wilds*. For more tips and guides, be sure to visit The Escapist.
*Monster Hunter Wilds is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.*