If you're diving into the world of Monster Hunter Wilds, one of the most unique tools at your disposal is the Hunting Horn. At first glance, it might seem like just another melee weapon, but skilled hunters know it’s far more than that. The Hunting Horn isn’t just for dealing damage—it’s a mobile symphony that provides buffs to you and your team. Here’s how to get the most out of this versatile instrument.
Unlocking the Potential of the Hunting Horn
The Hunting Horn isn’t your typical blunt weapon. It’s a melody-making machine designed to enhance your gameplay through buffs. By remembering melodies and playing them at the right moments, you can gain the upper hand in any battle. Let’s break down how to harness its full potential.
All Moves
| Command | Move | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Triangle/Y | Left Swing | A basic attack that produces Note 1 on the musical staff. Combine it with a direction for 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 adds another note. |
| Triangle/Y + Circle/B | Backwards Strike | A basic attack that produces Note 3 on the musical staff. Allows hunters to strike behind them and move backward while attacking. |
| 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 adds 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. Hunters can produce notes after various attacks using Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B. |
| R2/RT | Perform | An attack that activates Melody Effect. Stocked melodies are performed in order, but a specific melody can be chosen using R2/RT + Triangle/Y or Circle/B. A powerful Performance Beat can be triggered by pressing R2/RT, followed by an Encore (Triangle/Y + Circle/B) to boost and extend Melody Effects. Timing these actions with Melody Effect activation increases their power. |
| R2/RT + Cross/A | Echo Bubble | A special attack that creates an Echo Bubble. The type of bubble depends on the Hunting Horn equipped. Players can produce up to three notes with Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B. |
| R2/RT + Triangle/Y + Circle/B with Melody Stocked | Special Performance | This plays the unique Melody Effect tied to the equipped Hunting Horn. Once stocked, this melody cannot 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 Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B. Timing the notes correctly deals additional damage. |
Combos
Overhead Smash Combo
This is a reliable combo that should always be part of your repertoire. Simply move forward with the analog stick and press Triangle/Y + Circle/B twice to execute the Overhead Smash and Overhead Smash Follow-up Attack. This sequence has a chance to stun the monster—aim carefully and strike with force.
Performance Combo
Once you’ve stockpiled the desired melodies, it’s time to perform. Move forward with the analog stick and press R2/RT to activate Perform, then follow up with Triangle/Y + Circle/B for an Encore to boost and extend your Melody Effects. This combo also deals bonus damage.
Echo Bubble Combo
Use the Echo Bubble (Cross/A + R2/RT) to create favorable conditions for your team. Follow up with Triangle/Y, Circle/B, Circle/B for Echo Wave (Blunt), then R2/RT for Perform, and finally an Encore with Triangle/Y + Circle/B. This combo works best against incapacitated enemies.
Related: How to Capture Monsters in Monster Hunter Wilds
Hunting Horn Tips
Mastering the Hunting Horn requires finesse, timing, and teamwork. Here’s how to refine your skills.
All About the Notes
Each Hunting Horn has unique songs that require specific combinations of notes. Keep an eye on the top-right corner of the screen to see which commands correspond to the notes you need. Attacks like Flourish and Overhead Smash allow you to stack notes during follow-up attacks, making it easier to craft your melodies.
If you’re riding on your Seikret while chasing a monster, you can still play the necessary notes to form melodies.
Buff City
Once you’re comfortable with the notes, focus on stacking them for songs. Playing multiple songs in succession grants diverse buffs tailored to the situation. Remember, performing takes time, so plan accordingly.
Echo Chamber
Always use Echo Bubbles whenever possible. They provide three additional note inputs and amplify damage for every subsequent attack. The increased evasion and movement speed inside the bubble also boost survivability, especially during High Rank hunts.
Self-Improvement is Key
The Self-Improvement skill, present in all Hunting Horns, is essential. Aim for at least Level 2, which boosts attacks by 20%. This ensures you deal more damage and bring monsters down faster.
Always Be Prepared With Special Performances
Having a Special Performance stocked and ready to go is invaluable. For instance, the Offset Melody remains intact until you’re ready to use it. When the monster attacks, input the Special Performance command (R2/RT + Triangle/Y + Circle/B), hold the stance, and release it just as the monster strikes to knock it down.
That’s everything you need to know to master the Hunting Horn in Monster Hunter Wilds. For more tips and tricks, check out The Escapist.
Monster Hunter Wilds is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.
