How to Master the Great Sword in Monster Hunter: World
Hey, hunters! If you're reading this, chances are you're itching to dive into the world of Monster Hunter: World with a big, meaty weapon that screams raw power. Well, buddy, you've come to the right place. Today, we're going to dissect the beastly Great Sword, a weapon that’s as iconic as it is formidable. Grab your whetstone and let’s get sharpening!
Great Sword Combos and Moves: The Basics and Beyond
So, what's the deal with the Great Sword? This isn't your average oversized butter knife; it's a weapon that combines sheer power with steadfast precision. Mastering its use is like learning to waltz with a boulder, but once you get the rhythm, there's no going back.
The first thing to note about the Great Sword is its weight. It’s heavy, and that means your moveset isn’t going to be as agile as, say, Dual Blades or an Insect Glaive. But hey, who needs fancy footwork when one hit can send a monster reeling? Here’s a primer on the fundamental combos and moves:
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Charge Slash: This move is the bread and butter of the Great Sword. Holding down the attack button charges your slash, building up power for a devastating blow. Mastering the timing here is crucial; continuously practice so you can land those perfect charges.
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Tackle: Right out of left field, this move is your best buddy when it comes to deflecting attacks. It allows you to tank through smaller hits while still winding up your next big move. Sure, it may cost some stamina, but better that than getting tossed around like a ragdoll, right?
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True Charge Slash: A real crowd-pleaser. This is a two-stage Charge Slash that, when connected fully, unleashes titanic damage. Practice makes perfect with this one, as missing your mark can spell disaster.
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Slide and Horizontal Slash: A nifty maneuver letting you reposition while getting some strikes in. Ideal for those moments when you need to stay mobile.
Sounds simple enough, but it can be a real dance to pull this off consistently in the heat of battle. Trust me, though: nail these, and you’ll feel invincible.
Effective Combat Strategies: The Art of Patience and Precision
So, you’ve got the moves down, but how do you employ them against those titanic terrors roaming the world? First, you need to know this: playing with the Great Sword requires a blend of patience and aggression. It's a lot like fishing (if what you’re reeling in could eviscerate you).
Pick Your Moments: Charging your attacks means committing to a stance, which can leave you vulnerable. Watch your quarry’s patterns; those brief moments when a monster roars or staggers are prime time.
Don't Be Greedy: It’s tempting to try for that full-charge hit every time, but overreaching can lead to a dead hunter. Sometimes a well-placed regular charge gets the job done and keeps you safer.
Utilize Tackle Smartly: The Tackle move gives you tank-like resilience but can drain stamina if overused. Use it judiciously to absorb hits then follow up with a counter.
Mounting Matters: Find chances to mount and weaken your prey. A mounted hunter has opportunities galore to land critical hits, and it gives your pals a chance to breathe.
Recommended Gear and Builds: The Armor of a True Warrior
Your Great Sword prowess isn’t just about the weapon; your armor and other accessories play huge roles. Here are some gear recommendations to turn you into a monster-slaying juggernaut:
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High raw damage Great Swords: Look for high-attack power weapons. Examples include the Jagras Hacker III or the Wyvern Ignition “Impact.” These big hitters will make sure your strikes truly count.
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Focus on skills like Focus and Critical Draw: These significantly enhance your charge times and critical hit rates respectively. Skills like these are game-changers, turning a solid build into a exceptional one.
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Affinity Boosters: Look for gear that increases your affinity rate, as this translates into more frequent critical hits. Consider pieces from the Rathalos set for that—and don’t skimp on decorations if you have them!
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Health Maintenance: Running a weapon as deliberate as the Great Sword means it pays to keep your health maxed out. Skills like Health Boost can provide that cushion you need to stay in the thick of the fight.
My Personal Journey with the Great Sword
I’ll tell you a secret: when I first picked up the Great Sword, I hated it. Too slow, I thought. Too cumbersome. I was used to dancing around with nimble weapons, and this felt like strapping a fridge to my back. But one fateful hunt changed everything.
I was tackling the Anjanath. If you’ve met this fire-breathing, T-Rex-like monstrosity, you know it’s no joke. I floundered with lighter weapons, and in a fit of desperation, switched to the Great Sword. What I discovered was a new style of play – one where patience and timing reigned supreme. A perfectly timed True Charge Slash to the head, just as it reared back to roar, knocked it out cold. That moment – the sweet sound of a monster crumbling under the sheer weight of my attack – was a game changer.
Final Thoughts: Becoming the Sword Master
Mastering the Great Sword is about more than memorizing combos or having the right gear—it’s about embracing a mindset. Patience, timing, and knowing when to strike turn potential frustrations into epic triumphs. Channel your inner tactician, and revel in the feeling of toppling giants with well-placed and powerful blows.
So, ready to become a Great Sword aficionado? Head out into the wilds, hunt those monsters, and let your colossal blade carve your path to glory. Share your hunting stories, or ask questions in the comments. Let’s swap tips and become the ultimate hunting crew together.
Now gear up, hunter—the New World awaits!
