Choosing the best weapons in Monster Hunter Wilds can be daunting for beginners. While the game offers a starter weapon based on a quiz, it might not be the ideal choice for everyone. Despite Wilds’ enhanced onboarding, the game takes its time to delve into weapon mechanics. Our guide simplifies this by recommending five beginner-friendly weapons and providing insights into their use.
Monster Hunter Wilds Weapons for Beginners
- Hammer
- Dual Blades
- Sword and Shield
- Light Bowgun
- Long Sword
Hammer
The hammer is an ideal starting weapon for newcomers or those needing a refresher. It delivers high damage with simple moves, requiring minimal complex combos. Key moves include an overhead smash, a whirling hit, a powerful charged attack, and the Big Bang, which can knock down large monsters with a strong charged hit. Even weaker hammers that inflict status ailments still pack a punch, thanks to their high attack power, making them effective without needing to master intricate button sequences.
Dual Blades
The dual blades offer a gentle learning curve with straightforward combos, yet provide more engagement than the hammer. They enhance mobility, making it easier to dodge and aim. Basic combos lead into Demon Mode, where you can chain blade dance skills for high damage. However, Demon Mode consumes stamina, so timing is crucial. Ensure you eat stamina-boosting meals before hunts to maximize your effectiveness with the dual blades.
Sword and Shield
The sword and shield are versatile, offering a high skill ceiling for those looking to progress beyond the basics. The shield allows blocking attacks without the bulkiness of a lance, enabling seamless integration into your combat routine. Combos range from simple slashes to more complex maneuvers, but even basic attacks suffice for completing hunts. The real advantage is the ability to use items without sheathing your weapon, a feature that can turn the tide of battle.
Light Bowgun
The Light Bowgun is perfect for those who prefer to analyze monster behavior from a distance while still dealing damage. It offers unlimited basic ammo and the option to switch to special types, including elemental-infused ammo. While hunts may take longer and require more preparation compared to melee weapons like the hammer, the Light Bowgun provides safety and a learning opportunity. It's also beneficial to keep it upgraded as a secondary weapon for applying status ailments or exploiting weaknesses without dedicating your entire arsenal to that purpose.
Long Sword
The Long Sword is the most complex weapon in our beginner's list, requiring precise timing and positioning for its best combos. Basic attacks include a strike-and-retreat move and a sheathe skill for quick movement. The weapon's power lies in its spirit slash attacks, which become more potent as you build the spirit meter. These range from basic slashes to complex sequences, with the most challenging being a three-part ability involving a slash, an aerial launch, and a powerful downward thrust. This move demands practice, but mastering it can significantly enhance your hunting prowess.