In the vibrant world of *Monster Hunter Wilds*, the Hunting Horn stands out as a unique and powerful weapon. While initially unconventional, its ability to provide potent buffs for both yourself and your allies makes it a favorite among skilled hunters. Mastering the Hunting Horn requires understanding its mechanics and utilizing its full potential. Let's explore how to become a Hunting Horn virtuoso.
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This blunt weapon's strength lies in its melodies. Learning the right tunes and deploying them strategically is key to success. The Hunting Horn isn't just about brute force; it's about strategic musical combat.
All Moves
| Command | Move | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Triangle/Y | Left Swing | Basic attack producing Note 1. Use with a direction for a Forward Smash. |
| Circle/B | Right Swing | Basic attack producing Note 2. |
| Analog Direction + Circle/B | Flourish | Produces Note 2. Additional notes can be added by pressing Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B during the attack. |
| Triangle/Y + Circle/B | Backwards Strike | Produces Note 3. Hits targets behind you and moves you backward. |
| Analog Direction + Triangle/Y + Circle/B | Overhead Smash | Produces Note 3. Additional notes can be added by pressing Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B during the attack. |
| Backwards Analog Direction + Triangle/Y or Circle/B or Triangle/Y + Circle/B during combo | Hilt Stab | Quick attack producing a note. The specific note depends on the button combination used (Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B). |
| R2/RT | Perform | Activates Melody Effect. Stocked melodies play in order; select a specific melody using R2/RT + Triangle/Y or Circle/B. A powerful Performance Beat (R2/RT) followed by an Encore (Triangle/Y + Circle/B) boosts and extends effects. Timing these with Melody Effect activation increases their power. |
| R2/RT + Cross/A | Echo Bubble | Creates an Echo Bubble (type depends on the Hunting Horn). Up to three notes can be added using Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B. |
| R2/RT + Triangle/Y + Circle/B with Melody Stocked | Special Performance | Plays the unique Melody Effect of your equipped Hunting Horn. Once stocked, this melody isn't overwritten. |
| L2/LT + R1/RB | Focus Strike: Reverb | Performance attack effective against wounds. Up to five notes can be added using Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B. Precise timing increases damage. |
Combos
Beyond its musical abilities, the Hunting Horn delivers powerful blunt attacks. Master these combos to maximize your damage output between performances.
Overhead Smash Combo
A fundamental combo: move forward and press Triangle/Y + Circle/B twice for the Overhead Smash and its follow-up. Consistent use can stun monsters.
Performance Combo
After stacking songs, initiate Perform (R2/RT), then follow with Triangle/Y + Circle/B for an Encore to enhance and extend Melody Effects.
Echo Bubble Combo
Effective against incapacitated enemies: start with Echo Bubble (Cross/A + R2/RT), then use Triangle/Y, Circle/B, Circle/B for Echo Wave (Blunt), followed by R2/RT for Perform and an Encore (Triangle/Y + Circle/B).
Related: How to Capture Monsters in Monster Hunter Wild
Hunting Horn Tips
Mastering the Hunting Horn requires precise buff management and damage timing, especially in cooperative hunts.
Note Mastery
Each Hunting Horn has unique songs requiring specific note combinations. Watch the top-right corner to see which command corresponds to each note. Flourish and Overhead Smash allow adding extra notes. You can even play notes while riding your Seikret.
Buff Optimization
Stack songs for multiple buffs, choosing those best suited to the situation. Remember that performances take time.
Echo Bubble Utilization
Use Echo Bubbles frequently. They provide three additional note inputs, amplify damage, and boost evasion/movement speed. Prioritize using them before attacking, especially in High Rank hunts.
Self-Improvement Skill
Maximize the Self-Improvement skill (at least level 2) for a 20% attack boost.
Special Performance Readiness
Always have a Special Performance ready (e.g., Offset Melody). Use it defensively against monster attacks to knock them down.
This comprehensive guide will help you dominate Monster Hunter Wilds with the Hunting Horn. Check The Escapist for more game tips.
Monster Hunter Wilds is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.
