How to Block and Perfect Guard in Monster Hunter Wilds

In the perilous world of Monster Hunter Wilds, survival hinges on more than just offensive prowess. The ability to mitigate and negate incoming damage is paramount, transforming a novice hunter into a formidable defender. Among the essential skills, the Guard and, more importantly, the Perfect Guard stand out as crucial techniques for weathering the most devastating attacks. This guide delves into the intricacies of these defensive maneuvers, providing a comprehensive understanding of their mechanics and benefits.

The Foundation: Basic Guarding Mechanics

Guarding serves as the fundamental defensive action, allowing hunters to absorb a portion of the damage from monster attacks. The execution is straightforward:

• Activation:
  • PC: Press and hold the "R" key.
  • PlayStation: Press and hold the "R2" button.
  • Xbox: Press and hold the "RT" button.
• Weapon Dependency: Guarding is contingent on the weapon equipped. Only specific weapon types possess the inherent ability to block. Attempting to guard with weapons like the Insect Glaive will result in an alternative action, unique to that weapon's moveset.
• Damage Mitigation: A successful Guard reduces the incoming damage, providing a crucial buffer against powerful blows. However, it does not completely negate the impact, and prolonged or repeated attacks can deplete stamina and lead to staggering.

The Pinnacle of Defense: Perfect Guarding

Elevating the basic Guard to its zenith is the Perfect Guard, a technique that offers complete immunity to damage and opens up a wealth of tactical opportunities.

• Execution: The Perfect Guard requires precise timing. Hunters must activate the Guard command just as a monster's attack is about to land. A successful Perfect Guard is visually indicated by a distinctive white flash in front of the hunter's weapon or shield.
• Benefits:
  • Complete Damage Negation: Unlike a regular Guard, a Perfect Guard nullifies all incoming damage, protecting the hunter from even the most devastating attacks.
  • Weapon Sharpness Preservation: Normal guarding reduces sharpness of the weapon. Perfect guarding negates this effect.
  • Stagger and Knockback Immunity: Perfect Guards prevent the hunter from being staggered or knocked back, maintaining their positional advantage.
  • Counterattack Opportunities: A Perfect Guard provides a window for immediate counterattacks, allowing hunters to capitalize on the monster's vulnerability.
  • Power Clash Initiation: Perfect Guards are essential for initiating Power Clashes, a unique mechanic that allows hunters to engage in a direct struggle with certain monsters.
  • Co-op Utility: Power Clashes are invaluable in cooperative hunts, as they can immobilize monsters, preventing them from attacking other team members.

Risk-Free Precision: The Advantage of Attempting Perfect Guards

One of the most appealing aspects of Perfect Guarding is its low-risknature. Even if the timing is slightly off, the action will stillregister as a regular Guard, providing some level of damage mitigation.Therefore, hunters are encouraged to practice and attempt Perfect Guards without fear of negative consequences.

Weaponry of Defense: Guard-Capable Weapons

The following weapons in Monster Hunter Wilds are capable of performing Guard actions:

• Great Sword
• Sword & Shield
• Lance
• Gunlance
• Charge Blade (Sword Mode)
• Heavy Bowgun (with specific stances and controls)

Heavy Bowgun Guarding: A Unique Case

The Heavy Bowgun employs a distinct control scheme for Guarding and Perfect Guarding.

• Activation:
  • PC: Press and hold "R + F."
  • PlayStation: Press and hold "Triangle + Circle."
  • Xbox: Press and hold "Y + B."
• Stance Dependency:The Heavy Bowgun's Guarding ability may be tied to specific stances,adding a layer of tactical depth to its defensive capabilities.

Identifying Guarding Capabilities:

Hunters can easily identify weapons with Guarding capabilities by examiningtheir descriptions within the Change Equipment menu. This informationprovides clarity on the defensive potential of each weapon.

The Importance of Practice:

Mastering the timing of Perfect Guards requires dedicated practice. Hunters areencouraged to spend time in training areas, honing their reflexes anddeveloping a keen sense of anticipation. By mastering these defensivetechniques, hunters can transform themselves from vulnerable prey intoresilient defenders, capable of facing the most formidable monsters inMonster Hunter Wilds.

---

Other Articles Related

How To Obtain Glowing Stone in Monster Hunter Wilds
 Discover Glowing Stone in Monster Hunter Wilds! Unleash your hunting skills and explore vibrant landscapes. Join the adventure 
How To Defeat Tempered Seregios in Monster Hunter Wilds
Master the hunt: Learn weaknesses, strategies, and essential gear to defeat Tempered Seregios in Monster Hunter Wilds with our comprehensive guide.
How To Defeat Tempered Lagiacrus in Monster Hunter Wilds
Master the hunt against Tempered Lagiacrus in Monster Hunter Wilds! Discover essential strategies, weaknesses, 
How to get the Clerk armor set in Monster Hunter Wilds
Get the Clerk armor set in Monster Hunter Wilds! Discover its stats, how to unlock it, and if it's the right gear for your hunts.
How to get Bell Accessory in Monster Hunter Wilds
Discover the ultimate guide on how to obtain the Bell Accessory in Monster Hunter Wilds. 
How to Get the Hawkheart Jacket Armor Set in Monster Hunter Wilds
Discover how to obtain the Hawkheart Jacket Armor Set in Monster Hunter Wilds with our step-by-step guide. 
How to Get Seregios Dissenter in Monster Hunter Wilds
Discover the ultimate guide on how to obtain the Seregios Dissenter in Monster Hunter Wilds. 
How to unlock Lagiacrus in Monster Hunter Wilds
Unlock Lagiacrus in Monster Hunter Wilds with our expert tips andstrategies. Dive into the adventure and elevate your gameplay 
How to get normal and Tempered Lagiacrus Investigations in Monster Hunter Wilds
Learn how to obtain Normal and Tempered Lagiacrus Investigations in Monster Hunter Wilds.
How to Unlock Seregios in Monster Hunter Wilds
Unlock Seregios in Monster Hunter Wilds with our step-by-step guide. 
How To Upgrade Weapons in Monster Hunter Wilds
 Discover the ultimate guide on how to upgrade weapons in Monster Hunter Wilds.
How to Get a Kraken-chan in Like a Dragon Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii
Discover how to obtain a Kraken-chan in Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza while exploring the vibrant landscapes of Hawaii.
How to Get Majima's Classic Jacket in Like a Dragon Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii
Discover how to obtain Majima's classic jacket in Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza while exploring Hawaii!
How to Do a Sneak Attack in Monster Hunter Wilds
Monster Hunter Wilds! Discover expert tips for executing the perfect sneak attack
Where To Find Machalite Ore in Monster Hunter Wilds
Discover Machalite Ore in Monster Hunter Wilds! Unleash your hunting skills