If you prefer to throw your shield up rather than dodge roll, then you need my Monster Hunter Now block guide. In this guide, I’m going to detail everything you need to know to pull off this manoeuvre, including how to block and how to trigger Offensive Guard. That’s the biggest reason to block in this game, as it triggers an enormous offensive boost.
Monster Hunter Now is Niantic’s latest location-based mobile game. It takes place in the Monster Hunter universe, and sees you battle the series’ trademark monsters. You loot them for gear, craft it into weapons and armour, and do it all over again. It features co-op play if you have a friend that you’d like to bring along for the ride.
You can grab Monster Hunter Now on Google Play. I’ve also put together a Monster Hunter Now Sword and Shield build guide for those that like the blocking play style.
Monster Hunter Now Block
Now, let’s take a look at everything you need to know about blocking in Monster Hunter Now.
Which Weapons Can Block?
At the moment, the only weapon type that can block attacks is the Sword and Shield. In traditional Monster Hunter games the Great Sword can also block. But, given control limitations in Now, that ability doesn’t appear.
It might be that, when new weapons arrive in the future, more weapon types can block. But you’re stuck with sword and board for now.
How to Block
To block in Monster Hunter Now, simply tap and hold on the screen while you have a Sword and Shield equipped. You will know you’re about to block if your character changes stance, pushing their shield in front of them.
Then, simply wait until the monster attacks and you will take less damage and get knocked back a lot faster.
How to Trigger Offensive Guard
Offensive Guard is an Equipment Skill that boosts your attack following a “well-timed block”. This wording is actually slightly miss-leading, as I initially thought it meant you needed to pull off a ‘perfect block’.
However, there is no perfect block. Instead, you simply have to successfully block an attack to trigger Offensive Guard. If you block too late, and you get hit, it won’t work.
Can I Counter Attack?
Yes, simply attack right after blocking to counter with an overhead attack.
Can Sword and Shield Users Perform a Charged Attack?
Absolutely! However, it’s a little more complicated to perform than with other weapon types. Typically, you have to tap and hold to charge an attack. The Sword and Shield has a totally different method.
You have to tap and hold to block, then swipe backwards, then immediately tap and hold again. It’s tricky to perform, but you will know it’s worked if your character starts to glow.
Simply release to pull off the charged attack.
