Monster Hunter Now: Sword and Shield Build for High Damage (2024)

At the time of writing, there are only six different weapon types in Monster Hunter Now, Niantic's mobile version of Capcom's uber-popular action RPG series. Players first have access to the Sword and Shield and later gain access to other weapons, like the Great Sword, Long Sword, and the Hammer. The best weapon in the game will vary based on the player's playstyle, but we've grown accustomed to using the Sword and Shield for most encounters, thanks to its ease of use, the ability to guard, and fast attacks.

This guide will review the best Sword and Shield builds for Monster Hunter Now players to sink their teeth into. However, it's worth noting that as of the time of writing, we've only managed to get to HR 36 and Chapter 11, so take our suggestions with a grain of salt. Some weapons are harder to craft than others, and some are easier to come by. The build represented in this guide should be fairly simple to recreate for those in the mid/early game of Monster Hunter Now.

Sword and Shield Build in Monster Hunter Now

The biggest issue that Monster Hunter Now players will face while working through the chapters is running out of time before getting a Large Monster's health down to zero. It's one thing to avoid attacks successfully, but if you're not doing serious damage, sometimes it's impossible to beat certain monsters. So, because of that, this build will focus specifically on dealing the most possible damage. Here are the weapons we think should be a priority:

Best Sword and Shields

Blooming Knife - Once players get this to Grade 8, the weapon will have the Sneak Attack Equipment Skill, which causes more damage to the monster if attacking it from behind. It can get up to level 5, which will increase damage by 30%.
Girros Knife - This weapon also has the Sneak Attack skill, which unlocks at Grade 8.
Blazing Edge - This fire-based weapon will get the Rising Tide skill at Grade 8. The skill increases players' attack power and defense as the hunt timer runs out.

Monster Hunter

Monster Hunter is an action role-playing franchise from Capcom that, as the name suggests, tasks players with tracking down and killing enormous monsters of various species.

The main series games are often big hits with critics, particularly thanks to how enjoyable the games are with friends.

Best Armor for Sword and Shield Users

Monster Hunter Now: Sword and Shield Build for High Damage (3)

Kulu Vambraces - Gives players Last Stand and Critical Eye. The latter gives players extra Affinity, which increases damage for critical hits. Last Stand is helpful, too, as it increases defense when players' health is low.
Kulu Greaves - Equip these to get an extra dose of Critical Eye once it reaches Grade 2.
Barroth Helm - Has the Defense Boost skill at Grade 2 and Offensive Guard at Grade 4. Offensive Guard can be really helpful, as it boosts player's power if they successfully block an attack.
Barroth Mail - This piece of armor also gives players Offensive Guard. Couple that with the Barroth Helm to add some serious damage after guarding an attack.
Girros Mail - Sneak Attack unlocks at Grade 6, giving players bonus damage when attacking from behind.
Girros Vambraces - Same as above, but the skill is unlocked from the start.
Luma Hat - Wearing this piece will make players' Special Gauge fill up faster.
Luma Vambraces - This one also has Concentration, filling up the Special attack meter at a faster pace.