In the vibrant world of *Monster Hunter Wilds*, the Hunting Horn stands out as a truly unique weapon. While initially unconventional, its power is undeniable for those who master its melodies. This guide will help you unlock the Hunting Horn's full potential.
Recommended Videos Hunting Horn in Monster Hunter Wilds
This blunt weapon isn't just about hitting hard; it's about strategic buffs for you and your allies. Mastering its melodies and timing is key to victory.
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 note varies depending on the button pressed (Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B). |
| R2/RT | Perform | Activates Melody Effect. Stocked melodies play in order; use R2/RT + Triangle/Y or Circle/B to select a specific melody. Press R2/RT during multiple melodies for a powerful Performance Beat, followed by 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). Up to three notes can be added 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. Up to five notes can be added with Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B. Proper timing increases damage. |
Combos
Beyond its musical prowess, the Hunting Horn packs a powerful blunt force punch. Here are some key combos:
Overhead Smash Combo
A staple combo: move forward and press Triangle/Y + Circle/B twice for the Overhead Smash and follow-up. Consistent use can stun monsters.
Performance Combo
After stacking melodies, use this combo for increased damage: move forward, press R2/RT to Perform, then Triangle/Y + Circle/B for an Encore to boost effects.
Echo Bubble Combo
Best against incapacitated enemies: start with Echo Bubble (Cross/A + R2/RT), follow with Triangle/Y, Circle/B, Circle/B for Echo Wave (Blunt), then R2/RT to Perform, and finish with an Encore (Triangle/Y + Circle/B).
Related: How to Capture Monsters in Monster Hunter Wild
Hunting Horn Tips
Mastering the Hunting Horn requires skillful buff management and damage timing, especially in multiplayer.
All About the Notes
Learn to build melodies using different notes. 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 City
Chain songs together for multiple buffs, choosing buffs to suit the situation. Remember that performances take time.
Echo Chamber
Use Echo Bubbles frequently. They provide three extra note inputs and amplify damage. The increased evasion and movement speed boost survivability, especially in High Rank hunts.
Self-Improvement is Key
Maximize the Self-Improvement skill (at least level 2) for a 20% attack boost.
Always be Prepared With Special Performances
Keep a Special Performance ready (e.g., Offset Melody) to avoid overwriting it until needed. Use it just as a monster attacks to knock it down.
This covers the essentials of mastering the Hunting Horn in Monster Hunter Wilds. Check The Escapist for more game guides.
Monster Hunter Wilds is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.
