How to Guard and Block Attacks

Players can guard against attacks in Monster Hunter Wilds, but only with certain weapons. Find out how to guard and block, an explanation of what guarding does, and more in this guide!

How to Guard and Block

Press R2 With the Weapon Drawn

To guard and block attacks, press and hold R2 while the weapon is drawn. Weapons that can guard will maintain a defensive stance for as long as the button is held.

For the Heavy Bowgun specifically, the hunter will Auto-Guard if the player is not firing and is attacked. However, players can also choose to manually guard with the weapon.

Only Certain Weapons can Guard

Not all weapons in Monster Hunter Wilds can guard. Outside of weapons that visibly carry a shield, only a handful of other weapons have the ability to block monster attacks. Above is a list of all weapons that can guard.

Charge Blade has Guard Points in its Moves

The Charge Blade has an exclusive mechanic called Guard Points that are embedded in its attacks. Certain attack animations will bring the weapon's shield in front of the hunter, which counts as a guarding motion, blocking attacks.

Charge Blade Weapon Guide and New Moves

Guarding and Blocking Explained

Defends the Hunter Against Attacks

Guarding against a monster's attacks will usually prevent the hunter from being knocked down, as well as partially reduce damage taken depending on the strength of both the shield and the monster's attack.

Players can choose to guard against an attack as an alternative to dodging, especially on slower weapons that are not as agile. Note that both actions consume stamina, but guarding only does so after blocking a monster's attack.

Used as a Part of Weapon Combos

Certain weapons, such as the Lance or Charge Blade, incorporate Guarding as a part of their combos. These weapons can usually block an attack, then follow-up into an powerful counter against their foes.

All Weapons and Guides

Triggers the Power Clash Mechanic

Guarding against certain monster attacks with a Perfect Block will trigger the new Power Clash mechanic. To execute a Perfect Block, perform a guard right before an attack hits the hunter.

The Power Clash puts the hunter and monster in a brief struggle. Winning the struggle will damage and stagger the monster, opening it to further attacks.

Monster Hunter Wilds Related Guides

Tips and Tricks

All Tips and Tricks Guides