In the expansive world of *Monster Hunter Wilds*, the Hunting Horn stands out not just for its unique sound but for its powerful buffs and combat capabilities. For those looking to master this instrument of war, here's a comprehensive guide on maximizing the Hunting Horn's potential.
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
In addition to its musical prowess, the Hunting Horn is a formidable blunt weapon. Here are some essential combos to enhance your gameplay:
Overhead Smash Combo
This reliable combo should be a staple in your arsenal. Simply move forward with the analog stick and press Triangle/Y + Circle/B twice to execute the Overhead Smash and its follow-up attack. Consistent use of this combo can even stun the monster, so aim precisely and strike hard.
Performance Combo
Once you've stacked the desired songs, it's time to perform. This combo not only plays your melodies but also boosts your damage output. Move forward with the analog stick, press R2/RT to initiate Perform, and follow up with Triangle/Y + Circle/B for an Encore to enhance and extend your Melody Effects.
Echo Bubble Combo
The Hunting Horn's Echo Bubble mechanic is particularly effective against incapacitated enemies. Start with the Echo Bubble (Cross/A + R2/RT), followed by Triangle/Y, Circle/B, Circle/B for Echo Wave (Blunt), then R2/RT for Perform, and conclude with an Encore using 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 involves managing buffs and timing your attacks effectively, especially in team settings.
All About the Notes
Understanding 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. Moves like Flourish and Overhead Smash can add an extra note during the second attack, making it easier to compose your songs. Even while riding your Seikret, you can play the necessary notes to form melodies.
Buff City
Once you're familiar with the notes, it's time to stack them into songs. You can perform multiple songs in a row to benefit from various buffs. Choose buffs that suit your current situation, and remember that performing them takes time.
Echo Chamber
Always use Echo Bubbles to your advantage. They not only provide three additional note inputs but also amplify your subsequent attack damage. The increased Evasion and Movement Speed within the Echo Bubble enhance your survivability, making it essential in High Rank hunts.
Self-Improvement is Key
The Self-Improvement skill, available on all Hunting Horns, should be boosted to at least level 2 for a 20% attack increase. This enhances your damage output and reduces the time needed to affect monsters.
Always be Prepared With Special Performances
Keep a Special Performance ready at all times. For instance, the Offset Melody, once prepared, won't be overwritten until you use it. When a monster attacks, input the Special Performance command (R2/RT + Triangle/Y + Circle/B), hold the stance, and release it just as the monster hits to knock it down.
By following these tips and mastering the Hunting Horn's unique mechanics, you'll be well on your way to dominating in Monster Hunter Wilds. For more insights and guides, be sure to check out The Escapist.
Monster Hunter Wilds is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.
