In the dynamic world of *Monster Hunter Wilds*, victory isn't solely determined by brute strength. Speed and strategic positioning can be just as crucial, especially when wielding the Dual Blades. These rapid and versatile weapons are perfect for hunters who thrive on quick, successive strikes. Mastering both their modes can equip you to handle any situation on the battlefield. Here's how to effectively use Dual Blades in *Monster Hunter Wilds*.
All Moves
| Command | Move | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Triangle/Y | Double Slash/Circle Slash | Initiate your combo with a Double Slash by pressing Triangle/Y, then follow up with another Triangle/Y for a Circle Slash. |
| Circle/B | Lunging Strike/Roundslash | Advance with a slashing attack using Circle/B. Press again to execute a Roundslash. |
| R2/RT | Demon Mode | Activate Demon Mode to enhance your attack, movement speed, and evasion, gaining immunity to knockbacks. |
| Triangle/Y + Circle/B (In Demon Mode) | Blade Dance I, II, III | In Demon Mode, chain these powerful attacks together, consuming the Demon Gauge. |
| Triangle/Y + Circle/B (In Archdemon Mode) | Demon Flurry I, II | Unleash a series of attacks in Archdemon Mode that consume the Demon Gauge. Control the direction with the analog stick. |
| Cross/A (During Demon/Archdemon Mode) | Demon Dodge | Perform a faster dodge in Demon or Archdemon Mode. A Perfect Evade allows attacking during the dodge and grants a short-term buff. Demon Dodge doesn't consume the Demon Gauge in Demon Mode. |
| L2/LT + R1/RB | Focus Strike: Turning Tide | Execute a slashing attack that targets wounds. Hitting a 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' unique Demon Gauge mechanic allows you to enter Demon Mode, which boosts your attack, movement speed, and evasion while granting knockback immunity. Be mindful that Demon Mode continuously depletes your stamina, and it ends either manually or when stamina runs out.
Attacks in Demon Mode fill the Demon Gauge, and once it's full, you transition to Archdemon Mode. Here, the Demon Gauge decreases over time and is consumed by certain attacks, enabling you to execute enhanced attacks.
You can use both modes simultaneously, and when mounted on a monster, the Demon Gauge stops decreasing, allowing you to strategize your next move.
Demon Dodge
After a successful Perfect Evade, enter Demon Dodge for increased regular and elemental damage. This state lets you attack while dodging and grants a 12-second damage buff. Subsequent dodges will cause damage as you spin forward.
Combos
Image Source: Capcom via The Escapist
The Dual Blades' combos revolve around Demon and Archdemon Modes, chaining attacks for maximum damage.
Basic Combo
Chain the standard Triangle/Y attack three times to execute Double Slash, Double Slash Return Stroke, and Circle Slash for consistent damage in various hunting scenarios.
Alternatively, use the Circle/B Demon Flurry Rush – Spinning Slash – Double Roundslash combo to quickly fill your Demon Gauge.
Demon Mode Basic Combo
In Demon Mode, your basic combo becomes more potent and faster. Start with Demon Fangs, followed by Twofold Demon Slash, and Sixfold Demon Slash, then finish with Triangle/Y + Circle/B for Demon Flurry I.
Archdemon Mode Blade Dance Combo
After filling the Demon Gauge, enter Archdemon Mode for swift, concentrated damage. Begin with Blade Dance (Triangle/Y + Circle/B) in Demon Mode, then press R2/RT four times for Demon Flurry I into Blade Dance II, and conclude with Demon Flurry II and Blade Dance III. This seamless transition between modes maximizes your 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 fluid transitions between modes to maximize damage.
Always Follow Up
Initiate with the basic Demon Flurry Rush combo (Circle/B + Circle/B + Circle/B), then seamlessly transition into a full Demon or Archdemon Mode combo with three sets of Triangle/Y + Circle/B. This approach quickly fills and utilizes the Demon Gauge for swift damage.
Keep Your Stamina Up
Demon Mode relies on your Stamina, so maintaining a reserve is crucial. Exit the mode to recover or use Focus Strike on wounds to pause stamina drain while filling the Demon Gauge, preparing for more aggressive attacks.
Dodging in Between Attacks
Without reliable defense, dodging is your key to survival. The Dual Blades offer exceptional mobility, allowing you to dodge out of most attacks and combos. Avoid overcommitting and watch for openings to strike.
Ensure Sharpness
The relentless attacks of the Dual Blades quickly dull their sharpness. Utilize the Speed Sharpening skill in your build to minimize downtime and keep up your assault.
For more tips and guides on Monster Hunter Wilds, be sure to check out The Escapist. Monster Hunter Wilds is now available on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.
