Mastering Mounts In Monster Hunter Iceborne: A Complete Guide

Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the thrilling world of Monster Hunter Iceborne, specifically focusing on one of the most exhilarating mechanics in the game: mounting monsters. If you've ever dreamed of riding a fearsome beast and raining down attacks from above, then you're in the right place. Mounting can give you a significant advantage in battles, allowing you to control the monster's movements, create openings for your team, and deal massive damage. This guide will cover everything you need to know to become a mounting master, from the basics of initiating a mount to advanced techniques and strategies. So, grab your weapon, sharpen your skills, and let's get ready to ride!

Understanding the Basics of Mounting

So, you wanna learn how to jump on a monster's back, huh? Well, first things first, let's cover the basic mechanics. Mounting in Monster Hunter Iceborne is all about dealing enough aerial damage to a monster. Each weapon has different moves that are more effective for mounting, but the general idea is to attack the monster from above. This can be achieved by jumping off ledges, using the Insect Glaive's vaulting ability, or sliding down slopes and launching yourself into the air. When you're airborne, hitting the monster with an attack triggers a mounting attempt.

Once you've initiated the mounting sequence, you'll find yourself clinging onto the monster for dear life. A stamina gauge will appear, and you'll need to manage it carefully. The monster will thrash and try to shake you off, indicated by its movements and audio cues. During these moments, you'll need to brace yourself by holding down the designated button (usually RT or R2 on consoles). If you fail to brace in time, you'll be thrown off, taking damage and losing the mounting opportunity. Successfully bracing fills up a gauge. Once it's full, you can unleash a finisher attack by pressing the attack button. This deals substantial damage and topples the monster, creating a significant window for your team to unleash their strongest attacks. Understanding these basics is crucial for mastering the art of mounting and turning the tide of battle in your favor.

Weapons and Mounting: Choosing the Right Tools

Alright, so not all weapons are created equal when it comes to mounting, right? Some are just naturally better suited for launching aerial attacks and initiating those sweet mounting sequences. Let's break down some of the top contenders: the Insect Glaive, without a doubt, reigns supreme in the world of mounting. Its vaulting ability allows you to effortlessly launch yourself into the air at any time, making it incredibly easy to deliver those crucial aerial hits. The Insect Glaive also has unique aerial attacks that deal significant mounting damage, making it the go-to choice for hunters who love to stay airborne.

But hey, don't count out other weapons just yet! The Sword and Shield, for example, can perform jumping attacks off ledges or slopes, providing decent mounting opportunities. The Dual Blades, with their aerial spinning attack, can also be surprisingly effective. Even heavier weapons like the Greatsword and Hammer can get in on the action by utilizing jumping attacks from slopes or ledges. The key is to understand your weapon's moveset and identify opportunities to incorporate aerial attacks into your strategy. Experiment with different weapons and find the one that best suits your playstyle and mounting preferences. Trust me, mastering mounting with your favorite weapon can add a whole new dimension to your hunting experience.

Advanced Mounting Techniques and Strategies

Okay, now that we've covered the basics, let's crank things up a notch. We're talking about advanced techniques and strategies that will separate you from the average hunter and turn you into a true mounting master. One of the most crucial skills to develop is reading the monster's behavior. Pay close attention to its movements and attack patterns. This will help you anticipate when it's about to thrash, allowing you to brace yourself at the perfect moment. Timing is everything when it comes to mounting, and mastering this skill will significantly increase your chances of success.

Another important technique is utilizing your environment. Look for ledges, slopes, and other elevated areas that can give you an advantage. Sliding down slopes not only increases your movement speed but also allows you to perform powerful jumping attacks. Additionally, consider using the environment to your advantage during the mounting sequence. If the monster is near a wall, try to steer it towards the wall while you're mounted. When the monster slams into the wall, it will topple over, giving your team a massive opening for attacks. Lastly, communication with your team is key. Let them know when you're planning to mount so they can prepare to capitalize on the opportunity. Coordinate your attacks and work together to maximize the damage dealt during the toppled state. With these advanced techniques and strategies, you'll be mounting monsters like a pro in no time.

Best Armor Skills for Mounting

Alright, let's talk gear! Your armor skills can play a significant role in your mounting prowess. Selecting the right skills can enhance your ability to mount monsters, increase your survivability during the mounting sequence, and maximize the benefits you provide to your team. One of the most essential skills for mounting is [Airborne]. This skill increases the damage of your jumping attacks, making it easier to trigger the mounting sequence. With [Airborne], you'll be able to mount monsters more consistently and efficiently.

Another valuable skill is [Stamina Management]. Mounting consumes stamina, and running out of stamina can lead to you being thrown off the monster. Skills like [Stamina Surge] or [Constitution] can help you manage your stamina more effectively, allowing you to stay mounted for longer periods. Additionally, consider skills that enhance your survivability, such as [Evade Window] or [Evade Extender]. These skills can help you avoid taking damage during the mounting sequence, increasing your chances of successfully completing the mount. Finally, don't forget about skills that benefit your team, such as [Wide-Range] or [Speed Eating]. These skills can help you support your team during the toppled state, ensuring that everyone is able to capitalize on the opportunity. By carefully selecting your armor skills, you can create a build that is optimized for mounting and provides maximum benefit to your team.

Mounting Specific Monsters: Tips and Tricks

Okay, so mounting a Great Jagras is a bit different than trying to tame a Raging Brachydios, right? Each monster has its own unique behaviors and attack patterns, which means you'll need to adjust your mounting strategy accordingly. For faster, more agile monsters, timing is everything. You'll need to be precise with your attacks and brace yourself at the exact moment they try to shake you off. For larger, more powerful monsters, focus on positioning and utilizing the environment to your advantage. Try to steer them towards walls or other obstacles to create opportunities for toppling them. Some monsters have specific weak points that are more vulnerable to mounting damage. Experiment with different attacks and try to target these weak points to trigger the mounting sequence more easily.

Also, certain monsters have unique mechanics that can affect the mounting process. For example, some monsters can inflict status effects like poison or paralysis while you're mounted. Be prepared to counteract these effects with items or skills. Others might have specific attacks that are designed to knock you off, requiring you to be extra vigilant. Don't be afraid to experiment and learn from your mistakes. Each mounting attempt is an opportunity to gather information and refine your strategy. By understanding the unique characteristics of each monster, you'll be able to adapt your approach and become a master of mounting any beast that stands in your way.

Conclusion: Becoming a Mounting Master

Alright guys, we've covered a ton of ground in this guide, from the basic mechanics of mounting to advanced techniques and strategies. By now, you should have a solid understanding of what it takes to become a mounting master in Monster Hunter Iceborne. Remember, mounting is not just about jumping on a monster's back and hoping for the best. It's about understanding the mechanics, mastering your weapon, utilizing your environment, and coordinating with your team. With practice and dedication, you'll be able to turn the tide of battle in your favor and become a valuable asset to any hunting party.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your weapon, gather your friends, and head out into the Hoarfrost Reach. There are countless monsters waiting to be mounted, and endless opportunities to hone your skills. Embrace the challenge, experiment with different techniques, and most importantly, have fun! With this guide as your foundation, you'll be well on your way to becoming a true legend in the world of Monster Hunter Iceborne. Happy hunting, and may your mounts always be successful!