In the dynamic world of *Monster Hunter Wilds*, sheer power isn't the only key to victory. Speed and strategic positioning can turn the tide against even the most formidable beasts. This is where the Dual Blades shine, offering players a thrilling blend of agility and relentless attack. Here's how to master the Dual Blades in *Monster Hunter Wilds*.
Dual Blades in Monster Hunter Wilds
The Dual Blades are renowned for their rapid, continuous strikes, making them ideal for players who favor speed and versatility. Mastering both their modes is crucial for dominating the battlefield.
All Moves
| Command | Move | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Triangle/Y | Double Slash/Circle Slash | Initiate your combo with a Double Slash by pressing Triangle/Y, and continue with another Triangle/Y for a Circle Slash. |
| Circle/B | Lunging Strike/Roundslash | Advance with a slashing attack in the direction of the analog stick. Press again for a Roundslash. |
| R2/RT | Demon Mode | Activate Demon Mode to enhance attack, movement speed, and evasion, and gain immunity to knockbacks. |
| Triangle/Y + Circle/B (In Demon Mode) | Blade Dance I, II, III | Chain these powerful attacks in Demon Mode, which will consume 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. Use the analog stick for directional control. Chain Demon Flurry and Blade Dance using R2/RT. |
| Cross/A (During Demon/Archdemon Mode) | Demon Dodge | Initiate a faster dodge with this command. A Perfect Evade allows attacking while dodging and provides a short-term buff. Demon Dodge doesn't consume the Demon Gauge in Demon Mode. |
| L2/LT + R1/RB | Focus Strike: Turning Tide | Perform a slashing attack effective against wounds. Hitting a monster's 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 feature a unique Demon Gauge that enables Demon Mode, boosting your attack, movement speed, and evasion, while granting knockback immunity. However, Demon Mode consumes stamina, ending when it's depleted or manually canceled. Filling the Demon Gauge by landing attacks in Demon Mode unlocks Archdemon Mode, where the gauge depletes over time and can be consumed for enhanced attacks.
Both modes can be used concurrently, and the Demon Gauge stops decreasing when mounted on a monster, offering strategic advantages during hunts.
Demon Dodge
After a successful Perfect Evade, enter an empowered state with Demon Dodge, which increases both regular and elemental damage and allows attacks during dodges. This grants a 12-second damage buff, with subsequent dodges causing damage as you spin forward.
Combos
Image Source: Capcom via The Escapist
The Dual Blades' combos revolve around the Demon and Archdemon Modes, crucial for chaining attacks effectively for maximum damage.
Basic Combo
Chain three Triangle/Y attacks for a reliable combo: Double Slash, Double Slash Return Stroke, and Circle Slash, perfect for 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 swift: Demon Fangs, Twofold Demon Slash, Sixfold Demon Slash, and finish with Triangle/Y + Circle/B for Demon Flurry I.
Archdemon Mode Blade Dance Combo
With a full Demon Gauge, enter Archdemon Mode for rapid, devastating attacks. Start 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. Seamlessly transitioning between these modes maximizes your damage output.
**Related: How to Capture Monsters in Monster Hunter Wilds**
Dual Blade Tips
Image Source: Capcom via The Escapist
Mastering the Dual Blades involves seamlessly shifting between Demon and Archdemon Modes, leveraging their combined potential for optimal performance.
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 strategy quickly fills and utilizes the Demon Gauge for rapid damage.
Keep Your Stamina Up
Since Demon Mode relies on stamina, maintaining reserves is crucial. Exit the mode to recover or use Focus Strike on wounds to halt stamina drain while filling the Demon Gauge, preparing for more aggressive attacks.
Dodging in Between Attacks
With no reliable defense, dodging is your best strategy. The Dual Blades' mobility allows for dodging out of most attacks and combos. Avoid overcommitting, and use quick animations to find attack opportunities.
Ensure Sharpness
Constant attacks with Dual Blades lead to quick sharpness loss. Utilize the Speed Sharpening skill to minimize downtime and swiftly return to combat.
That's all you need to know about mastering the Dual Blades in *Monster Hunter Wilds*. For more tips and guides, be sure to visit The Escapist.
*Monster Hunter Wilds is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.*
