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

by Ellie Mar 18,2025

In the vibrant world of *Monster Hunter Wilds*, the Hunting Horn stands out as a unique and powerful weapon. While initially unconventional, its ability to provide potent buffs for both yourself and allies makes it a favorite among skilled hunters. Mastering the Hunting Horn requires understanding its melodies and utilizing them strategically. This guide will help you unlock its full potential.

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All Hunting Horn Moves

CommandMoveDescription
Triangle/YLeft SwingA basic attack generating Note 1. Use with directional input for a Forward Smash.
Circle/BRight SwingBasic attack producing Note 2.
Analog Direction + Circle/BFlourishProduces Note 2. Additional notes can be added during the attack using Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B.
Triangle/Y + Circle/BBackwards StrikeProduces Note 3, hitting targets behind you and moving you backward.
Analog Direction + Triangle/Y + Circle/BOverhead SmashProduces Note 3. Additional notes can be added during the attack using Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B.
Backwards Analog Direction + Triangle/Y or Circle/B or Triangle/Y + Circle/B (during combo)Hilt StabA quick attack producing a note, varying depending on the button pressed (Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B).
R2/RTPerformActivates Melody Effects. Stored melodies play sequentially, or select a specific melody with R2/RT + Triangle/Y or Circle/B. A powerful Performance Beat is triggered by pressing R2/RT during multiple melodies. Follow with an Encore (Triangle/Y + Circle/B) to boost and extend effects. Timing these with Melody Effect activation increases their power.
R2/RT + Cross/AEcho BubbleCreates an Echo Bubble, its type determined by your Hunting Horn. Up to three notes (Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B) can be added.
R2/RT + Triangle/Y + Circle/B (with Melody Stocked)Special PerformancePlays the unique Melody Effect of your equipped Hunting Horn. Once stocked, this melody isn't overwritten.
L2/LT + R1/RBFocus Strike: ReverbA Performance attack effective against wounds. Up to five notes (Triangle/Y, Circle/B, or Triangle/Y + Circle/B) can be added during performance. Precise timing increases damage.

Hunting Horn Combos

Hunting Horn Combos
Image Source: Capcom via The Escapist

Beyond its musical abilities, the Hunting Horn delivers powerful blunt force trauma. Here are some effective combos:

Overhead Smash Combo

A core combo: Move forward (analog stick) and press Triangle/Y + Circle/B twice for the Overhead Smash and follow-up. This can stun monsters.

Performance Combo

After stacking desired songs, move forward (analog stick), press R2/RT (Perform), then Triangle/Y + Circle/B (Encore) to boost and extend Melody Effects.

Echo Bubble Combo

Effective against incapacitated enemies: Start with Echo Bubble (Cross/A + R2/RT), follow with Triangle/Y, Circle/B, Circle/B (Echo Wave – Blunt), then R2/RT (Perform), and finish with Triangle/Y + Circle/B (Encore).

Hunting Horn Tips and Strategies

Hunting Horn Tips
Image Source: Capcom via The Escapist

Mastering the Hunting Horn involves controlling buffs and timing damage, especially in multiplayer.

Note Mastery

Each Hunting Horn has unique songs requiring specific note combinations. The top-right corner shows command-note pairings. Flourish and Overhead Smash allow adding extra notes during the second attack. Notes can even be played while riding your Seikret.

Buff Management

Stack songs for multiple buffs, choosing those suited to the situation. Performing takes time, so plan accordingly.

Echo Bubble Utilization

Maximize Echo Bubble use. It provides three extra note inputs and amplifies damage. Increased evasion and movement speed enhance survivability, especially in High Rank hunts. Use it before attacking.

Self-Improvement Skill

Prioritize Self-Improvement to at least level 2 (20% attack boost) for increased damage.

Special Performance Readiness

Always have a Special Performance ready (e.g., Offset Melody). Use it defensively against monster attacks to knock them down (R2/RT + Triangle/Y + Circle/B).

This comprehensive guide will help you become a Hunting Horn virtuoso in Monster Hunter Wilds. Check The Escapist for more game guides.

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