In the vibrant world of Monster Hunter Wilds, the Hunting Horn stands out as a unique and powerful weapon. While initially unconventional, mastering this instrument unlocks significant advantages. This guide will equip you with the knowledge to harness the Hunting Horn's full potential.
Recommended Videos Hunting Horn in Monster Hunter Wilds
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This blunt weapon isn't just about smashing; it's about strategic melody creation. By playing the right notes at the right time, you'll unleash potent buffs for yourself and your allies, turning the tide of battle.
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. Adding Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B during the attack adds another note. |
Triangle/Y + Circle/B | Backwards Strike | Produces Note 3. Hits targets behind you, moving you backward. |
Analog Direction + Triangle/Y + Circle/B | Overhead Smash | Produces Note 3. Adding 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 | Quick attack producing a note. Triangle/Y, Circle/B, and Triangle/Y + Circle/B each produce a different note. |
R2/RT | Perform | Activates Melody Effect. Stocked melodies play in order; R2/RT + Triangle/Y or Circle/B selects a specific melody. Press R2/RT during multiple melodies for a powerful Performance Beat. Follow with an Encore (Triangle/Y + Circle/B) to boost and extend effects. Timing these with Melody Effects increases their power. |
R2/RT + Cross/A | Echo Bubble | Creates an Echo Bubble (type depends on the Hunting Horn). Add 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 | 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. Add up to five notes with Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B. Proper timing increases damage. |
Combos

Overhead Smash Combo
A core combo: move forward and press Triangle/Y + Circle/B twice for the Overhead Smash and follow-up. This can stun monsters.
Performance Combo
After stacking songs, use this combo for enhanced damage: move forward, press R2/RT (Perform), then Triangle/Y + Circle/B (Encore) to boost effects.
Echo Bubble Combo
Ideal for incapacitated enemies: use Echo Bubble (Cross/A + R2/RT), then Triangle/Y, Circle/B, Circle/B (Echo Wave), R2/RT (Perform), and Triangle/Y + Circle/B (Encore).
Related: How to Capture Monsters in Monster Hunter Wild
Hunting Horn Tips

Note Mastery
Each Hunting Horn has unique songs requiring specific note combinations. The top-right corner shows the command for each note. Flourish and Overhead Smash allow adding extra notes. You can even play notes while riding your Seikret.
Buff Optimization
Chain songs for multiple buffs, tailoring them to the situation. Performing songs takes time, so plan accordingly.
Echo Bubble Strategy
Use Echo Bubbles frequently. They provide three extra note inputs and amplify damage. Increased evasion and movement speed enhance survivability, particularly 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) to counter enemy attacks. Use it just as the monster strikes to knock it down.
This guide provides the foundation for mastering the Hunting Horn in Monster Hunter Wilds. Explore The Escapist for more helpful guides.
Monster Hunter Wilds is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.