In the dynamic world of *Monster Hunter Wilds*, victory isn't solely determined by brute strength. Speed and strategic positioning can be just as crucial, especially when wielding the versatile Dual Blades. These weapons are perfect for those who thrive on agility and rapid strikes. Here's how to maximize their potential in *Monster Hunter Wilds*.
Dual Blades in Monster Hunter Wilds
The Dual Blades are renowned for their speed and ability to deliver multiple hits quickly, making them a formidable choice on the battlefield. Mastering both their standard and specialized modes will ensure you're prepared for any encounter.
All Moves
| Command | Move | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Triangle/Y | Double Slash/Circle Slash | Initiate your combo with a Double Slash by pressing Triangle/Y, followed by another press 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 your attack power, movement speed, and evasion, while gaining knockback immunity. |
| Triangle/Y + Circle/B (In Demon Mode) | Blade Dance I, II, III | Chain these powerful attacks in Demon Mode, consuming the Demon Gauge as you do so. |
| Triangle/Y + Circle/B (In Archdemon Mode) | Demon Flurry I, II | Unleash a series of attacks exclusive to Archdemon Mode, consuming the Demon Gauge. Control the direction with the analog stick. |
| Cross/A (During Demon/Archdemon Mode) | Demon Dodge | Initiate a faster dodge in Demon or Archdemon Mode. A Perfect Evade allows attacks 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 | Execute a slashing attack effective against wounds. Hitting a monster's wound triggers a Midair Spinning Blade Dance, capable of damaging multiple wounds across the monster's length. |
Demon Mode/Demon Gauge and Archdemon Mode
The Dual Blades feature a unique Demon Gauge mechanic. Activating Demon Mode boosts your attack, movement speed, and evasion, and grants knockback immunity. However, it constantly depletes your stamina, ending when you manually cancel it or run out of stamina.
Attacks in Demon Mode fill the Demon Gauge. Once full, you transition to Archdemon Mode, where the gauge decreases over time and can be consumed by certain attacks, allowing you to deliver enhanced attacks.
Both modes can be used interchangeably, and mounting a monster will halt the Demon Gauge's depletion, giving you time to strategize your next move.
Demon Dodge
A successful Perfect Evade in Demon or Archdemon Mode activates Demon Dodge, increasing both regular and elemental damage. It enables attacks during dodges and grants a 12-second damage buff. Subsequent dodges cause damage as you spin forward.
Combos
Image Source: Capcom via The Escapist
The Dual Blades' combos revolve around Demon and Archdemon Modes, enabling you to chain attacks for maximum damage.
Basic Combo
Start with three consecutive Triangle/Y attacks to execute a Double Slash, Double Slash Return Stroke, and Circle Slash. This sequence offers reliable damage in various situations.
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 faster. Begin with Demon Fangs, followed by Twofold Demon Slash and Sixfold Demon Slash, concluding with Triangle/Y + Circle/B for Demon Flurry I.
Archdemon Mode Blade Dance Combo
Once your Demon Gauge is full, enter Archdemon Mode for swift, concentrated damage. Start with Blade Dance (Triangle/Y + Circle/B) in Demon Mode, then press R2/RT four more times for Demon Flurry I into Blade Dance II, and finish with Demon Flurry II and Blade Dance III. This seamless transition between modes maximizes your damage output.
Related: How to Capture Monsters in Monster Hunter Wild
Dual Blade Tips
Image Source: Capcom via The Escapist
Mastering the Dual Blades requires seamless transitions between modes to maximize damage output.
Always Follow Up
Start with the basic Demon Flurry Rush combo (Circle/B + Circle/B + Circle/B), then transition into a full Demon or Archdemon Mode combo (three sets of Triangle/Y + Circle/B). This fills your Demon Gauge and converts it into rapid damage, a unique advantage over weapons like the Great Sword.
Keep Your Stamina Up
Since Demon Mode relies on stamina, maintaining high levels is crucial. While you can exit the mode to recover, using Focus Strike on wounded areas stops stamina drain during the attack and fills the Demon Gauge, allowing for more aggressive attacks upon landing.
Dodging in Between Attacks
Without reliable defense, dodging is your lifeline. The Dual Blades offer exceptional mobility, allowing you to dodge out of most attacks and combos. Avoid being overly aggressive and wait for the right moment to strike, leveraging the weapons' quick animations.
Ensure Sharpness
The relentless attacks of the Dual Blades can quickly dull your blades. Incorporating the Speed Sharpening skill into your build can minimize downtime and keep you in the fight.
For more tips and strategies on Monster Hunter Wilds, be sure to explore The Escapist.
Monster Hunter Wilds is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.
