How to use Hunting Horn in Monster Hunter Wilds: All Moves and Combos
In the vast world of *Monster Hunter Wilds*, the Hunting Horn stands out as a unique and powerful weapon, blending combat prowess with musical mastery. For those dedicated to the art of the Hunting Horn, it's not just about the fight; it's about creating a symphony of buffs that can turn the tide of battle. Here's how to harness the full potential of the Hunting Horn in *Monster Hunter Wilds*.
All Moves
Command | Move | Description |
---|---|---|
Triangle/Y | Left Swing | A basic attack that produces Note 1 on the musical staff. Use it with a direction to perform a Forward Smash. |
Circle/B | Right Swing | A basic attack that produces Note 2 on the musical staff. |
Analog Direction + Circle/B | Flourish | An attack that produces Note 2 on the musical staff. Pressing Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B during the attack will allow you to produce another note. |
Triangle/Y + Circle/B | Backwards Strike | A basic attack that produces Note 3 on the musical staff. It allows hunters to easily hit a target behind them, moving hunters backwards as they attack. |
Analog Direction + Triangle/Y + Circle/B | Overhead Smash | An attack that produces Note 3 on the musical staff. Pressing Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B during the attack will allow you to produce another note. |
Backwards Analog Direction + Triangle/Y or Circle/B or Triangle/Y + Circle/B during combo | Hilt Stab | A quick attack that produces a note on the musical staff. The attack can be used after a number of different attacks, with Triangle/Y, Circle/B, and Triangle/Y + Circle/B producing their own note. |
R2/RT | Perform | An attack that activates Melody Effect. Stocked melodies will be performed in order, but a specific melody can be selected using R2/RT + Triangle/Y or Circle/B. While performing multiple melodies, press R2/RT for a powerful Performance Beat. Then play an Encore (Triangle/Y + Circle/B) to boost and extend Melody Effects. The power of a Performance Beat and Encore will increase if you time them with the activation of Melody Effects. |
R2/RT + Cross/A | Echo Bubble | A special attack that produces an Echo Bubble. The type of Echo Bubble created is determined by the Hunting Horn equipped. When creating an Echo Bubble, players can produce up to three notes with either Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B. |
R2/RT + Triangle/Y + Circle/B with Melody Stocked | Special Performance | Unlike normal performances, Special Performances will play the unique Melody Effect associated with the Hunting Horn equipped. Once stocked, this melody will not be overwritten by new melodies. |
L2/LT + R1/RB | Focus Strike: Reverb | A Performance attack effective against wounds. Players can produce up to five notes with either Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B while performing. Playing the notes at the right time will deal additional damage. |
Combos
Image Source: Capcom via The Escapist
The Hunting Horn is not just about melodies; it packs a punch as a blunt weapon too. Here are some essential combos to master:
Overhead Smash Combo
This reliable combo should be part of your regular arsenal. Move forward with the analog stick and press Triangle/Y + Circle/B twice to execute the Overhead Smash and its follow-up attack. Consistent use of this combo can stun monsters, so aim precisely and strike hard.
Performance Combo
Once you've stacked your desired songs, unleash them with this combo that also boosts your damage. Move forward with the analog stick, press R2/RT to initiate Perform, and follow up with Triangle/Y + Circle/B for an Encore to enhance and prolong your Melody Effects.
Echo Bubble Combo
Leverage the Hunting Horn's unique Echo Bubble mechanic in this combo, especially effective against incapacitated foes. Start with the Echo Bubble (Cross/A + R2/RT), then follow with Triangle/Y, Circle/B, Circle/B for Echo Wave (Blunt), then R2/RT for Perform, and conclude with an Encore using Triangle/Y + Circle/B.
Related: How to Capture Monsters in Monster Hunter Wild
Hunting Horn Tips
Image Source: Capcom via The Escapist
Mastering the Hunting Horn involves controlling buffs and optimizing damage output, especially in team settings.
All About the Notes
Mastering songs requires understanding the notes. Each Hunting Horn has unique songs that need specific note combinations. Keep an eye on the top right corner of your screen to see which command corresponds to the needed note. Moves like Flourish and Overhead Smash allow you to add notes during the second attack, facilitating song creation. Even while riding your Seikret, you can play the required notes to form melodies.
Buff City
Once familiar with notes, stack them to create songs. Playing multiple songs in succession provides diverse buffs. Tailor these buffs to your current situation, and remember that performing them takes time.
Echo Chamber
Use Echo Bubbles frequently to create a favorable battlefield. They not only provide three additional note inputs but also amplify your damage. The increased Evasion and Movement Speed within the Echo Bubble also enhance survivability, making it crucial in High Rank hunts.
Self-Improvement is Key
The Self-Improvement skill, available on all Hunting Horns, should be boosted to at least level 2. This 20% attack increase significantly boosts your damage potential, ensuring quicker monster takedowns.
Always be Prepared With Special Performances
Keep a Special Performance ready at all times. For instance, the Offset Melody can be prepared and held until the perfect moment. When a monster attacks, input the Special Performance command (R2/RT + Triangle/Y + Circle/B) and release it as the monster strikes to knock it down.
That's all you need to know about mastering the Hunting Horn in Monster Hunter Wilds. For more tips and guides, check out The Escapist.
Monster Hunter Wilds is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.





