Mastering Sneak Attacks and Monster Riding in Monster Hunter Wilds

In Monster Hunter Wilds, players have the exciting opportunity to utilize a Seikrat, which significantly enhances your ability to pursue monsters swiftly, minimizing downtime between engaging encounters. Beyond the conventional one-on-one combat, the game encourages various strategies, including sneak attacks and even riding monsters to gain the upper hand in battles.

Executing a Sneak Attack in Monster Hunter Wilds

To successfully execute a sneak attack, approach the monster quietly from behind without being detected. You will trigger a prompt indicating that you can perform a sneak attack, but ensure your weapon is sheathed, as this prompt will not appear with a weapon drawn. For stealthy movement, crouching by pressing the X or A button can facilitate a more discreet approach.

Monster Hunter Wilds sneaking up behind monster while crouching with sneak attack prompt

When you successfully perform a sneak attack, you will experience a unique attack animation while the monster is briefly stunned, giving you an excellent opportunity for follow-up strikes. Utilize your environment effectively; hiding in bushes can dramatically reduce your visibility to monsters. Look for Bush icons scattered across the map to find suitable hiding spots.

How to Ride a Monster in Monster Hunter Wilds

To mount and ride a monster, initiate aerial attacks while wielding your weapon. Each monster has a specific damage threshold, and you can jump off your Seikrat to perform a well-timed aerial attack for a successful mount. It’s worth noting that alternative aerial attacks also work effectively, but I’ve found jumping off your Seikrat to be the most reliable method for mounting your target. Interestingly, even flying creatures can be mounted with a strategically placed aerial assault.

Monster Hunter Wilds mounting and riding rathalos wyvern monster — Screenshot by Twinfinite

Your weapon type plays a crucial role in determining how effectively you can mount and ride monsters. For instance, using Dual Blades, which deal lower damage, would require several aerial attacks to mount a creature, whereas a Greatsword can accomplish this in just one or two aerial assists. Similarly, the Longsword offers a comparable advantage. Keep in mind that once you’ve successfully mounted a monster, it will develop resistance against subsequent mounts and aerial assaults, making future attempts more difficult.

Think of mounting a monster as applying a progressive status effect, as each mount increases the damage required for the next one. Theoretically, it’s feasible to mount a monster multiple times during a single encounter, provided you consistently execute aerial attacks. Certain weapons, like the Insect Glaive, are particularly adept at this tactic. Additionally, colliding monsters with destructible environmental elements can yield substantial damage and valuable monster materials.

Monster Hunter Wilds mounting and riding rathalos while dealing damage to open red wounds — Screenshot by Twinfinite

While mounted, be aware that your stamina will deplete steadily, and you risk falling off once the stamina bar is fully drained. As the monster attempts to dislodge you, it’s vital to maneuver wisely between its head, torso, and tail to maintain your position.

You have the choice to either dismount early or brace yourself against the monster’s efforts to shake you off. The resistance indicator located in the bottom left corner will help you gauge how much stamina is lost at each mounting position. Bracing can significantly mitigate stamina loss during your ride, enhancing your overall endurance.

Once you are securely atop the monster, you can perform weapon and dagger attacks. Weapon attacks inflict higher damage, while dagger attacks are quicker. Utilizing both types will open up and create wounds in the targeted regions of the monster.

Your mount will conclude once you successfully create a wound and follow up with a weapon attack. These weapon strikes on the inflicted wounds trigger unique finisher animations, adding flair to your offensive maneuvers. It’s advisable to maximize the usage of your mounting capabilities to generate numerous wounds on the monster’s body, which can then be exploited for focus strikes during the battle.

In summary, mastering sneak attacks and the mechanics of mounting and riding monsters in Monster Hunter Wilds is crucial for your success. For additional insights, check our guides on how to catch the elusive Sandstar and how to locate the Golden Fish.

Source & Images