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How to use Hunting Horn in Monster Hunter Wilds: All Moves and Combos

by Benjamin Mar 26,2025

In the vibrant world of *Monster Hunter Wilds*, one of the standout experiences is wielding the Hunting Horn. While it might seem unusual at first, those who master the Hunting Horn will soon discover its powerful potential. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to maximize your effectiveness with the Hunting Horn in *Monster Hunter Wilds*.

Hunting Horn in Monster Hunter Wilds

The Hunting Horn is a unique blunt weapon that not only deals damage but also produces buffs for you and your allies. Mastering the melodies and knowing when to play them can significantly turn the tide of battle in your favor.

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 and moves hunters backward 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

Hunting Horn Combo Image — Image Source: Capcom via The Escapist

The Hunting Horn is not just about the melodies; it's a formidable blunt weapon as well. Here are some effective combos to incorporate into your strategy.

Overhead Smash Combo

A staple in your repertoire, this combo involves moving forward with the analog stick and pressing Triangle/Y + Circle/B twice. This sequence performs the Overhead Smash and its follow-up attack, which can stun monsters if executed consistently.

Performance Combo

After stacking your desired songs, unleash them with this combo. Move forward with the analog stick, press R2/RT to initiate Perform, and then follow up with Triangle/Y + Circle/B for an Encore to boost and extend your Melody Effects.

Echo Bubble Combo

Utilize the Hunting Horn's unique Echo Bubble mechanic with this combo, particularly effective against incapacitated enemies. 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 finish with an Encore using Triangle/Y + Circle/B.

Related: How to Capture Monsters in Monster Hunter Wild

Hunting Horn Tips

To truly excel with the Hunting Horn, you need to manage your buffs and time your attacks effectively, especially in cooperative play.

All About the Notes

Understanding and memorizing the notes is crucial. Each Hunting Horn has unique songs requiring specific note combinations. Keep an eye on the top right corner of the screen to see which command corresponds to the needed note. Moves like Flourish and Overhead Smash allow you to add another note during the second attack, facilitating song creation. You can also play notes while riding your Seikret during monster pursuits.

Buff City

Once you're familiar with the notes, start stacking them to create songs. You can play multiple songs in succession for various buffs. Ensure the buffs match the current scenario, and remember that performing them takes time.

Echo Chamber

Make the most of Echo Bubbles to create advantageous battlefields. Echo Bubbles not only provide three additional note inputs but also amplify your subsequent attacks. The increased Evasion and Movement Speed within the Echo Bubble enhance your survivability, making it essential, especially in High Rank hunts.

Self-Improvement is Key

The Self-Improvement skill on all Hunting Horns should be boosted to at least level 2 for a 20% attack increase. This significantly enhances your damage output, helping you defeat monsters more quickly.

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), hold the stance, and release it just as the monster hits to knock it down.

Mastering the Hunting Horn in Monster Hunter Wilds involves a blend of timing, strategy, and musical prowess. With these tips and techniques, you'll be well on your way to becoming a formidable Hunting Horn player. For more guidance, be sure to explore The Escapist's resources on the game.

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

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