Monster Hunter Wilds: Slash Axe Guide - Combos, Focus Strike Explained

The ever-changing blade tears through the wilderness. The "Slash Axe," combining the romance of a transforming weapon with overwhelming destructive power, will surely captivate many hunters in "Monster Hunter Wilds (MHWs)." This article thoroughly predicts and explains the Slash Axe, from its basic operations and tactics based on past game specifications and newly released information, to its synergy with the new "Focus Mode."

[IMPORTANT] This article is based on pre-release information for "Monster Hunter Wilds," scheduled for release in 2025, and its content may change with future official announcements. Additionally, as no patch notes exist, numerical values such as motion values are predictions based on previous titles.

Monster Hunter Wilds Slash Axe Basics and Predicted Changes

The Slash Axe is a weapon that fights by switching between two forms: "Axe Mode," which boasts excellent reach and mobility, and "Sword Mode," which is characterized by high-damage continuous attacks. It is safe to assume that this basic concept will be carried over into "Monster Hunter Wilds."

Roles of Axe Mode and Sword Mode

Axe Mode features fast movement speed when drawn and a long attack reach, making it suitable for managing distance with the large monster while maneuvering. Its primary role is to consistently deal damage through wide-ranging vertical and horizontal attacks, especially with "Dash Slash" for position adjustment, and to recover the Slash Gauge, which will be discussed later.

On the other hand, Sword Mode is the core of your offensive rush, delivering overwhelming damage with many hits, and providing the Mind's Eye effect (attacks will not be deflected). Hitting attacks activates the "Phial" effect built into the weapon, leading to an Amped State. However, attacks in Sword Mode consume the "Slash Gauge," so unplanned consecutive attacks can lead to running out of gauge, creating a significant opening.

Amped State and Phial Types

By continuously landing attacks in Sword Mode, the weapon awakens and transitions into an "Amped State." In this state, all sword attacks gain additional hits from the Phial effect, significantly boosting damage output. The ultimate attack that can only be unleashed in Amped State is the finish to "Elemental Discharge," commonly known as "Zero-Distance Elemental Discharge."
Similar to past titles, multiple Phial types are expected to exist, such as "Impact Phials" for boosting physical damage and "Power Element Phials" for enhancing elemental damage. The strategy of choosing weapons based on the large monster's weaknesses will likely remain important in this title.

Predicted Changes in Wilds

According to some early information (predictions), Slash Gauge management in "Wilds" seems to be somewhat eased. For instance, increased gauge recovery from Axe Mode attacks or the addition of actions that reduce gauge consumption by incorporating transformations into combos are anticipated, suggesting improvements in usability. This might allow for even smoother and more continuous chain attacks than in previous titles.

Key Actions and Combo Routes

The true joy of the Slash Axe lies in its fluid combos, which involve switching between Axe and Sword modes. Here, we introduce predicted combo routes, from beginner-friendly to advanced techniques.

Beginner-Friendly Basic Combos

First, here's a basic combo that starts with approaching in Axe Mode and then dealing damage in Sword Mode. Commands are referenced from previous titles.

1. Axe: Dash Slash
   Approach the large monster by pressing forward on the stick + △(Y).
2. Axe: Overhead Slash
   Follow up with △(Y) to deal damage and prepare to transition to Sword Mode.
3. Morph Slash (Axe → Sword)
   Smoothly transition to Sword Mode with R2(RT). This is where the real action begins.
4. Sword: Double Slash → Heavenly Blade Dance
   Deliver a focused attack with the ○(B)→△(Y) combo. Use this during large openings, such as when the large monster is knocked down.

Advanced Techniques for Experienced Hunters

These techniques are for hunters seeking higher damage efficiency and sustained combat capabilities.

• Morph Loop Combo: After attacking in Sword Mode, transform to Axe Mode with R2(RT) while attacking, then immediately return to Sword Mode with R2(RT). This is a crucial technique for continuously attacking while recovering the Slash Gauge.
• Morph Slash from Evade: Pressing R2(RT) after an evade allows you to attack and transform simultaneously while moving. This is highly effective when parrying a large monster's attack and counter-attacking.
• Early Activation of Zero-Distance Elemental Discharge: Once in Amped State, it's important to actively look for small openings in the large monster's movements and aim for "Zero-Distance Elemental Discharge" rather than forcing long combos. It is predicted that Super Armor will be granted while clinging, so be prepared to take some hits to land massive damage.

Action Explanation Table

Here's a summary of the key actions predicted to appear in "Wilds."

New "Focus Mode" and Slash Axe Synergy

The most anticipated new element in "Monster Hunter Wilds" is "Focus Mode." This system makes it easier to concentrate attacks on a large monster's weak points or wounded areas, potentially significantly altering Slash Axe tactics.

Zero-Distance Elemental Discharge Becomes Even Stronger

When using Focus Mode, it is predicted that the areas to attack, such as a large monster's weak spots, will be clearly highlighted. This makes it easier to decide where to unleash "Zero-Distance Elemental Discharge." You'll be able to deliver maximum damage more precisely to parts like the head or wings, which, when broken, can turn the tide of battle. This will be extremely effective, especially against fast-moving large monsters.

The Potential for New Action "Focus Strike"

During Focus Mode, it is expected that a dedicated action called "Focus Strike (Provisional)" will be added. For the Slash Axe, there are rumors of an action called "Focus Assault: Morph Combination." This is predicted to be a powerful follow-up attack delivered when transforming from Amped State Sword Mode to Axe Mode. If implemented, it would greatly expand tactical options, serving as a combo finisher or a new choice for dealing significant damage while recovering the gauge.

Recommended Skills and Tactical Predictions

Although this is not confirmed information as the game has not been released, we will introduce skill builds predicted to be effective in "Wilds" based on trends from previous titles.

• Essential Skills:
  Rapid Morph: The most crucial skill, increasing transformation speed and power. It's no exaggeration to say you can't start without it.
  Power Prolonger: Extends the duration of Amped State. Very important for maintaining damage output.
  Evade Extender: Compensates for the heavy Slash Axe's mobility, drastically improving survivability.
• Damage Skills:
  Series staple damage skills like Attack Boost, Critical Eye, Weakness Exploit, and Critical Boost will likely be effective in this title. They are especially important for increasing the offensive rush in Sword Mode.
• Others:
  If you frequently use "Zero-Distance Elemental Discharge," "Divine Blessing" to mitigate damage while in Super Armor, and "Earplugs" to nullify roars, are also strong candidates.

Summary

The Slash Axe in "Monster Hunter Wilds" has the potential to evolve into a weapon that allows for more strategic and precise tactics through the new "Focus Mode," while inheriting the exhilarating axe and sword transformation actions cultivated throughout previous series.

Feint with the long-reaching axe, build up the gauge, relentlessly attack with the high-damage sword, penetrate weak points with the new "Focus Strike," and finally finish with the signature move, "Zero-Distance Elemental Discharge." This flow will be an irresistible charm not only for veteran hunters but also for beginner hunters picking up the Slash Axe for the first time. Let's look forward to future official announcements and prepare to traverse the wilderness!