Understanding Weapon Choice in Monster Hunter Wilds
When diving into the world of Monster Hunter Wilds, it’s crucial to understand that there is no singular “best” weapon type. If you’re seeking a foolproof weapon that guarantees the fastest hunt times, you will be disappointed. The essence of choosing a weapon lies in what feels right for you. If you’re consistently landing hits, avoiding carting, and having fun, then you’re on the right track!
Creating an effective build for any weapon involves various factors, including armor, decorations, and specific Artian weapons tailored to the monster you’re hunting. While these elements significantly influence your success, certain weapon types may enhance your hunting efficiency. This tier list combines insights from the Monster Hunter community, speedrun averages, and personal experience to highlight the best weapons in Monster Hunter Wilds.
Monster Hunter Wilds Weapon Tier Breakdown
The following weapons are recognized as the top tier in Monster Hunter Wilds: Sword and Shield, Great Sword, Long Sword, Gunlance, and Bow. They stand out for various reasons, which we will explore below.
S-Tier Weapons
These weapons are regarded as the crème de la crème due to their high damage output and relative ease of use. The Gunlance, while more technical, offers significant rewards for those willing to master it.
- Sword and Shield
- Great Sword
- Long Sword
- Gunlance
- Bow
A-Tier Weapons
A-tier weapons can rival S-tier options with the right skill. They may require a bit more technical finesse or fall slightly short in certain scenarios. Notably, the Hunting Horn shines in cooperative play, even if it isn’t the best choice for solo hunters.
- Insect Glaive
- Charge Blade
- Dual Blades
- Hunting Horn
- Heavy Bowgun
- Switch Axe
B-Tier Weapons
B-tier weapons may not compete with the S- and A-tier options, even in the hands of seasoned players. However, they are by no means “bad” choices; they simply require a bit more effort and specific builds to achieve optimal results.
- Lance
- Hammer
- Light Bowgun
Why Tiers Are Just a Guideline
It’s essential to remember that every weapon has its strengths and weaknesses, and your experience may differ based on the monster you’re facing. Don’t let tier lists deter you from enjoying your favorite weapon. A B-tier weapon can still deliver impressive performance!
In-Depth Look at the Best Weapons
Sword and Shield
The Sword and Shield is an incredibly versatile weapon often underestimated as just a beginner’s choice. While it is easy to pick up, it offers significant mobility and damage potential once you master your combos and movements. With the ability to guard and execute powerful counterattacks, it also features a unique capability to use items without sheathing the weapon, making it ideal for support hunters. Whether you prefer slashing or blunt damage, the Sword and Shield has something for everyone.
Great Sword
Developers often emphasize the Great Sword as a foundational weapon in new Monster Hunter titles, and it’s easy to see why. It excels at delivering high damage in single strikes and incorporates satisfying mechanics like Power Clashes and Offset attacks. Although it requires more practice due to its slower speed and potential for punishing misses, the Great Sword’s ability to deal devastating damage makes it a favored choice among players.
Long Sword
Renowned for its speed and stylish playstyle, the Long Sword remains a popular choice among players. It allows for powerful counterattacks through perfect evasion, enabling hunters to build their Spirit Gauge quickly for maximum damage output. Its impressive reach makes it effective for slicing off tails and delivering consistent hits, but maintaining a full Spirit Gauge requires skill and practice.
Gunlance
The Gunlance offers a unique blend of defense and offense, making it a popular choice for players willing to invest time in mastering its mechanics. While it may be more challenging to learn compared to other S-tier weapons, its powerful attacks and robust shield capabilities can lead to impressive results. The addition of new moves in Monster Hunter Wilds, such as Wyrmstake Full Blast and enhanced Wyvern’s Fire shots, has only increased its appeal.
Bow
Despite some performance concerns in speedruns, the Bow is often celebrated as one of the strongest weapon choices in the game. Its new move, Tracer Ammo, ensures critical hits on target shots, while the elimination of limitations on coatings enhances its damage potential. The Bow is also incredibly mobile, allowing players to maintain a continuous offensive while replenishing stamina with perfect dodges.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the best weapon is the one that you feel most comfortable with. Mastery takes time and practice, so whether you prefer the Light Bowgun or the Great Sword, stick with what you enjoy. What weapon do you believe reigns supreme in Monster Hunter Wilds? Join the community and share your thoughts as we continue to explore this exciting game!
For more in-depth content, check out our comprehensive Monster Hunter Wilds guide, and remember, every hunter’s journey is unique!
Casey DeFreitas is a deputy editor for the IGN guides team and has been hunting monsters since the PS2 era. Follow her on social media for more insights.
