Mastering Hunting Horn in Monster Hunter Wilds: Moves and Combos Guide

Author : Claire Apr 26,2025

In the vast world of *Monster Hunter Wilds*, one of the most unique experiences is wielding the Hunting Horn. While it may seem unconventional at first, those dedicated to the Hunting Horn will proclaim its effectiveness. Here’s how to maximize the potential of the Hunting Horn in *Monster Hunter Wilds*.

Hunting Horn in Monster Hunter Wilds

The Hunting Horn is a powerful blunt weapon that not only deals damage but also produces a variety of buffs for yourself and your teammates. Mastering the Hunting Horn is all about understanding and executing melodies at the right moments to gain a strategic advantage.

All Moves

CommandMoveDescription
Triangle/YLeft SwingA basic attack that generates Note 1 on the musical staff. Use it with a direction for a Forward Smash.
Circle/BRight SwingA basic attack that generates Note 2 on the musical staff.
Analog Direction + Circle/BFlourishAn attack that generates Note 2 on the musical staff. Pressing Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B during the attack allows you to add another note.
Triangle/Y + Circle/BBackwards StrikeA basic attack that generates Note 3 on the musical staff. This move allows you to hit targets behind you and causes you to move backward during the attack.
Analog Direction + Triangle/Y + Circle/BOverhead SmashAn attack that generates Note 3 on the musical staff. Pressing Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B during the attack allows you to add another note.
Backwards Analog Direction + Triangle/Y or Circle/B or Triangle/Y + Circle/B during comboHilt StabA quick attack that generates a note on the musical staff. This move can be used after various attacks, with different inputs producing different notes.
R2/RTPerformAn attack that activates Melody Effects. Stocked melodies are performed in order, but a specific melody can be selected using R2/RT + Triangle/Y or Circle/B. During multiple melodies, press R2/RT for a powerful Performance Beat, followed by an Encore (Triangle/Y + Circle/B) to boost and extend Melody Effects. Timing the Performance Beat and Encore with Melody Effect activation increases their power.
R2/RT + Cross/AEcho BubbleA special attack that creates an Echo Bubble. The type of Echo Bubble depends on the equipped Hunting Horn. Up to three notes can be produced during creation with Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B.
R2/RT + Triangle/Y + Circle/B with Melody StockedSpecial PerformanceThis performance plays the unique Melody Effect of the equipped Hunting Horn. Once stocked, this melody won't be overwritten by new ones.
L2/LT + R1/RBFocus Strike: ReverbA Performance attack effective against wounds. Up to five notes can be produced during the performance with Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B. Timing the notes correctly increases damage.

Combos

Hunting Horn Combo in Monster Hunter Wilds
Image Source: Capcom via The Escapist

Beyond its melodic prowess, the Hunting Horn is a formidable blunt weapon. Here are some essential combos to integrate into your gameplay for maximum impact.

Overhead Smash Combo

A fundamental combo to master, simply move forward with the analog stick and press Triangle/Y + Circle/B twice to execute the Overhead Smash and its Follow-up Attack. This combo can stun monsters if executed consistently, so aim accurately and strike hard.

Performance Combo

After stacking your desired songs, unleash a performance with added 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

Utilize the unique Echo Bubble mechanic in this combo, which is most effective against incapacitated enemies. Begin with the Echo Bubble (Cross/A + R2/RT), followed by Triangle/Y, Circle/B, Circle/B for Echo Wave (Blunt), then R2/RT for Perform, and finally an Encore with Triangle/Y + Circle/B.

Related: How to Capture Monsters in Monster Hunter Wild

Hunting Horn Tips

Hunting Horn Tips in Monster Hunter Wilds
Image Source: Capcom via The Escapist

To truly excel with the Hunting Horn, you must master the art of timing your buffs and maximizing your damage output, especially in cooperative play.

All About the Notes

Understanding the intricacies of note combinations is crucial. Each Hunting Horn has unique songs that require specific note sequences. Monitor the top right corner of the screen to identify the command for each needed note. Moves like Flourish and Overhead Smash enable you to add additional notes during the second attack, facilitating the creation of desired songs. Even while riding your Seikret in pursuit of a monster, you can play the necessary notes to form melodies.

Buff City

Once you've mastered the notes, focus on stacking them to create songs. You can play multiple songs consecutively to benefit from various buffs. Ensure the buffs align with your current situation, and remember that performing them takes time, so plan accordingly.

Echo Chamber

Make the most of Echo Bubbles to create a battlefield that offers multiple advantages. Not only do they provide three additional note inputs, but they also amplify the damage of subsequent attacks. The increased Evasion and Movement Speed within the Echo Bubble enhance survivability, making it essential to use before attacking, especially in High Rank hunts.

Self-Improvement is Key

Leverage the Self-Improvement skill available in all Hunting Horns. Aim to reach at least level 2 of this buff, which boosts your attacks by 20%, thereby increasing your damage potential and ensuring quicker 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 without being overwritten until you need it. When a monster initiates an attack, input the Special Performance command (R2/RT + Triangle/Y + Circle/B), hold the stance, and release it just as the monster hits to knock it down.

That’s everything you need to know to master the Hunting Horn in *Monster Hunter Wilds*. For more tips and guides, be sure to explore The Escapist.

*Monster Hunter Wilds is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.*