Things you didn’t cover/missed: - Quicker manual reload when jumping off ledges - The fade morph slash from sword to axe mode can be combo’d into a side swing (triangle) or a morph slash (R2) to sword mode, for positioning - The rising slash in axe mode can send other players flying in the air. Be aware of other players when doing that move. - The sword damage combo adds an extra swing on the transition from 3x triangle to circle segment of the combo. That’s why it’s the damage combo, but keep in mind that circle press becomes a 3-swing move instead of 2, that leaves you very vulnerable due to how long it is - When you perform the elemental discharge in amped state and latch onto the monster, this is not a mount and you are completely vulnerable during the entirety of it. The monster can perform any move and if it creates a hitbox on you, you will take full damage and be thrown off. This is why: - When you’re latched onto a monster, you can quickly get off and do an early explosion by holding triangle. This offers 2 advantages: First, you can get the explosion off early and get away from the monster when you see it about to do a move that would hit/interrupt you and still get the damage and also avoid getting hit. Second, ending the discharge early has several added benefits; it costs less of your sword gauge, the landing lag is greatly reduced and a shorter animation, and you remain in sword mode. It will not switch you back to axe mode automatically
dark494 also trianle circle triangle is about the same dps and one less attack meaning you lose less gauge, also quicker meaning safer. And rocksteady +amped discharge mount = dangerous, learned that the hard way.
@@JustHANO its been fixed you wont get onehitted with rockesteady mantle. you get quite heavy dmg (when fighting temp elders) but dont die especially when using a lifesteal augmentation i can pretty ignore what the Monster is doing and climb it like three times in a row do start the fight with massive damage
Great list! I didnt know i can do the discharge explosion earlier to avoid thrown off i cant imagine how often i knew i will fall off before it happened and coundt do anything about it Thanks man
I wanted ti say the same thing here. The tutorial is great but it can be a lot of new information. Being able to see it in action with the narration walk through is really helpful in understanding the mechanics and strategy of this weapon. I’m really exciting to try it!!!
One little thing to mention about that Amped Elemental Discharge that has you latch onto the monster, you need to be VERY careful of where and when you latch on. You will latch onto whatever body part is hit by that initial stab, and if the monster attacks with that part of its body it will count as hitting you (eg. Being on the tail during the tail swipe, or being on the face during a fireball) so latching onto a weak point directly isn't necessarily always the best idea. On the flip side though, if you're willing to tank the hits, the Rock Steady Mantle will guarantee that you won't be knocked off no matter what. I find this extremely useful against the Kirin if done right. Extra bonus fun fact: For whatever reason, the Urugaan rolling around isn't a full body hitbox like most monster charges, so if you latch onto his leg you can actually safely enjoy the ride. It looks hilarious.
Reload isn't quite "something you want to avoid at all costs". It has its uses. Like you have entered amped mode and the Diablos just charged away from you. You let the Diablos come back to you with another charge attack while you reload, ready to spank the monster with your now full meter.
This weapon still by far the coolest looking weapon in MH. Cool charge and switch mechanic, flashy elemental attacks and watching your weapon mechanically morph into a powered up state never gets old.
FINALLY! I've been waiting on a tutorial for my main weapon! Also can we all agree that this is the best version of Switch Axe? Personally I was tired of Generations' Switch Axe requiring you to ALWAYS be in sword mode
Same here! I came from older games as a SA main, so it took me a while to watch a tutorial. I really should have, because I did NOT realize I could reach the amped state so easily by just using O.
I like your video a lot, but as a switch axe main here are a few things to add for those that want it. Poison Phial wasn't mentioned but is self explanatory and works just like the para Phial. Para and poison Phials have a hidden element and said element does not stack with Sword mode's status amounts while unlocked. ( In the case of the barroth axe, the axe mode actually has higher paralysis) The way it works instead is that in sword mode you have a 1/3 chance of inflicting either amount and yes there is a chance to do both in one attack albeit a low one. The exhaust switchaxe does KO damage in sword mode so it can be used to KO monsters. While the Focus skill does work as mentioned in the video it is also important to mention that levels in focus also add to the amount of amped state build up per hit. You can essentially enter amped state twice as fast at level 3. The Elementless skill works with dragon, para, exhaust, and poison phials if you don't unlock the hidden element. This is true even for the sword mode of these weapons despite the sword mode having an "element" or "status" This makes all those weapons exceedingly more powerful than they initially appear. Especially in the case of the para and dragon phials. High raw from elementless with 550 dragon. It's disgusting. Thanks again for the video Arrekz. ^^
He also didn’t mention that the type of phial used determines how quickly you enter the amped state. Dragon takes the least amount of hits while power and status need the most. Element phials are in the middle.
Jhenaro I actually wasn't aware of that. I'll have to test and look at that when I get a chance. Also I think it would've been worth mentioning the Phial values. Like 17 percent for power Phial ( vs the 20 it used to be) and the 30 percent for power element. ( Vs the 25 it used to be).
Dude, you or some UA-camr that manages to see this comment should make a video covering all these things as well. Also, 550 Dragon damage!? Which Axe are YOU using, cause I need to hop on that train!
Katarina Amaxas It's the bone switch axe maxed out. With dragon attack 5 it has 550. I should mention's probably better to just use dragon attack 4 since the last level only gives 10 dragon attack due to elemental caps. So 540 Is what I have actually since I recently quit running dragon attack 5 and went to dragon attack 4.
the switch axe was the weapon i chose to start with and i still like it a lot. aside from how fun it is to play overall, i love how it feels. i love watching the animations of combos and how weight of the weapon is used to move around with the momentum it generates, which is superbly animated. it fills my gamer-3d-artist heart with joy.
Wow nice guide! I just started using the SA some weeks ago, but you mentioned some combo tricks I was not aware of! Thanks a lot Arekkz and keep up the great work!
Awesome vid, man. You continue to improve each week. You've really opened my horizons for MHW-gunlance and charge blade are crazy fun AND effective after watching your tutorial. You've inspired me to be a weapons master, and I can't thank you enough for making an awesome game even more rewarding.
I've mained the axe since mh3. This video is really high quality and I learned a lot. The combat at the end of the video was an excellent touch bringing everything together. Fantastic job man keep it up
Just modern day note from a newb, from what I’ve found, if your running out of gauge for sword, spam the transform attack if you can, that shit will recharge the gauge like nothing else. Also if your almost out or just a bit below the line, and the monster flies off, use the Manuel reload. It may seem stupid, but your safe, and can simply rebuff your sword gauge considerably.
I've played Switch Axe since 3U and have put hundreds of hours into it in World as well. I knew the information given due to labbing it out, but this tutorial was so well made and you covered everything flawlessly. Definitely sharing this video the next time one of my friends asks me about the Switch Axe. Amazing job like always!
A great flow to get into is open in sword mode with R2. Then traingle x3 -> circle -> R2 -> circle -> R2 -> repeat. This will keep your meter up as well as dealing amazing damage. Also in my opinion Kushala legs are mandatory. Evade distance, like he said, is extremely important. Especially when you are in Sword mode. It has saved my life more times than I can count. Kushala arms are also very valuable.
I’ve been using charge blade almost religiously. Then when you’re top 5 swax dropped decided to try it out and LOVED it. Find myself switching (see what I did there) constantly between them! Love your work and the new segment at the end is a fantastic addition! Looking forward to more!
@@mattjenkins2557 if you mean his missing moves that got added in iceborne I dont think iceborne was out when this was made he has a new video for the new stuff added
Yeah I normally play Hunting Horn a lot but I've been warming up to the Switch Axe. Was thinking of picking Charge Blade but it almost seems way too overtuned.
Phazon Arrancar Yeah. I tried it with the Barroth SA and a few others. I initially thought that the Skill will only work in Axe mode and stop working in Sword mode; but after testing it out, it works for both Axe and Sword.
Dude I love the intros to these videos, you just perfectly showcase how badass each weapon can look when done right and the music just adds to the epicness
Man your videos never fail to impress me. I learned so much more about the glaive a few months ago when I first started playing, I started using the hammer, and now I’m learning the switch axe all from you. Your intros are also really cool
@Impaleification agree. I play in pc i used controller before but decided to try keyboard/mouse when i play bow and hbg and for me that's an advantage then never return to using controller even when I'm using other weapon. I can use any btw and to me there's no weapon that's not good to use using keyboard and mouse. But at first item usage is kinda clunky.
This weapon and chargeblade had me ready for Bloodbornes weapon combos. I love transforming weapons, especially when they have these smooth flowing combos. I miss my ps4. Lol
Been a Switchaxe main for the past 3 games and here you are still taking me to school, Arekkz. Awesome tutorial and the end fight was a total help to see how to apply the combos.
Pongze Lor whats also nice is that if you watch your damage it actually increases when in sword mode. I've only seen this with the axe of demons but my damage went from like 980 something to 1100 something it was crazy
Eh I use the Power Smasher 2 now. The augments and elementless are awesome. I can only consider a fully augmented barroth grinder 2 or jagras as replacements.
I just got back into this game after being away for a long time when I lost all my data. Your videos of weapons have helped me alot. I started Sword and Shield, then went to Bow, then to Great Sword and today I landed on Switch Axe and I love this weapon. Thank you for the helpful info! Happy Hunting!
Just when I thought your tutorial videos couldn't get any better, WOW you blew my mind with this one. You went out of your way to make a demonstration at the end of your video, way to go man. Easy like
Exactly what I was looking for. Amazing and thorough tutorial but what makes this top notch quality is the recommended armor skills and video clip of the weapon in action.
Shock Master look up the white wind switch axe set on Google. It's pretty much Kushala pieces, Dragon king eyepatch, interchangeable waist but I like Bazel or Nerg and Diablos Swax
I thought it was strange that he said to avoid it at all costs. If you're low on phial gauge and you have an opening, then it's in your best interest to recover some energy.
Fantastic job!!! Just as a general tip to anyone, if you get in the middle of a monster (between it's legs) you can wild swing (circle,circle) almost indefinitely for a good chunk of damage and meter regen. It will often hit the monster's head and tail for decent armor break chance and the knockback resistance in the swing will prevent you being knocked down by monsters typical defense of kicking at you or doing a slight body twist. As he said it's not the greatest attack for damage, but just a little bit of versatility for the move.
definitely a good tutorial man. thanks for going so in depth on these and I really liked the extended combat at the end with the explanations of what you're doing while you're doing it. I like to switch back and forth between my switch axe, hunter horn, and hammer, and I definitely learned a lot from this vid. looking forward to the tutorials on my other main weapons!
bombomos I don't know for sure cause I don't watch the SA players close to me but it seems I get tripped off of morph slash, which seems to be the go to damage attack. However, this really is a tutorial for ALL weapons. I wish they would do an etiquette video for positioning.
i had dabbled in SA but now i know how to use it more effectively, so i'm going to go back and finish my trees up. looks beautiful in action and the flow feels seamless, like any sort of sport where u ride something (skateboard, bike, skates, etc). I will say the battle at the end really does help put the background info into perspective, keep doing that.
I absolutely love the attention to detail, even in little things like the hunter putting their right hand on their hip during the wild slash for "stability"
I might be late on commenting on this, but this is the best SA guide I've seen. It polished my play style and hunts seem to be significantly quicker. Cheers mate, keep doing great content.
It mainly depends on your play style, but a pretty safe one to start with or a solid bet is nerg's switchaxe (dying light), its my favorite switchaxe, i augmented it with health regen, and it is really good, my current set is dragon king's eyepatch, nerg's gauntlets, waist and chest, and kushala daora boots, + attack charm 3, its not the best build but it does provide allot of sustain and maneuverability, but again it mainly depends on your play style
Nergi SA is the safest one to start with. For full RAW, go with Diablos. Other notable mentions are the Teostra for Blast, Baroth for Para and Vaal for Dragon. Most SA players look for high Raw, just like when looking for GSs; so the Diablos SA is best if you want to stick with the weapon. However, the -30 affinity and the need to get it to white sharpness will be difficult to overcome; but if you are able to do so, the weapon is one of the strongest, if not the strongest, SA in game.
Search on UA-cam for swagaxe build by fightincowboy. Replace the nergigante weapon with the diablos axe of demons and the optional mighty jewel with a non elemental boost. Singlehandedly the best build I ever played with. If you're going with power phial, axe of demons is the way to go.
Don't care what anyone says but this weapon shits on the Charge Blade lmao. Swag Axe just looks so fluid and stylish. Seriously looks like something they could add in a Devil May Cry game. Likes for the Swag Axe!!!!!!!
It depends on your play style really, If you need to occasionally diss out big damage on a single sweep or do some deflect with your shield then Charge Blade is better. But if you want to be fluid with your combo and do constant damage than Switch Axe is better. If you don't give a damn shit about combo, shield, evasion, phial or what ever and you just want to smash, then the manliest weapon you can use is the Hammer.
you call a tiny reduction to KO damage(not damage, but KO damage,which doesn't affect health) of Impact Phial and an increase to Elemental Phial's damage a nerf?
Havent played MHW in a long time and was a charge blade main and went to switch axe cause its just as flashy…watching your tutorial videos always helps as a refresher course. 10/10 man
Theres no wrong way. Dont listen to that idiot. If you want the axe for its extra range, to make uo for its lack of defensive options? I say its a smart play. As your confidence with the weapon grows, you may find yourself moving closer and wanting faster, more damaging attacks. As well as access to your elemental discharge. But staying alive is better than taking chances for a couple extra numbers. Play smart
This isn’t the wrong way to play lmao what the hell was that first guy taking? In reality, you’re trading Damage Output for Range and Mobility. I would advise using Sword mode not only for it’s damage, but for it’s soft Hyper Armor that let’s you continue that damage. You’ll notice, for example, Nerg’s quick forearm swipe will knock you down in Axe Form, however, Sword Form completely facetanks that hit. Don’t be scared to tank a hit because you don’t have a shield.
Thanks for the clip at the end this really helps with understanding the mindset and mental strategy of a switch axe user. I'll be trying one out soon now.
I don't like switch axe at all. It's a really cool weapon but for me it has too many limitations, expecially in terms of movement and flexibility. His dps is, ihmo, too much based on combos that need you to standing still for a lot. And you cannot even evade or counter an incoming attack. Maybe this is too much personal, because my gameplay is based on counters, timing and tracking (I am a CB/GS) and this weapon doesn't suit my playstyle, but I can definitely see that there's something "wrong". If you start a combo with this weapon the only way to stop it and evade an incoming attack is to STOP the combo and EVADE. Sounds stupid I know, but this weapon doesn't have a proper combo finisher (I'm excluding the discharge cause you can't pull it off when you want cause of the time it requires, and it's not a finisher since you can do it when you want if you are charged). The playstyle is based on doing this long and infinite combos (with both sword mode and axe mode), evade an attack and repeat. It's like dual blades, but with DB you can play aggressive like that cause you have a lot of movement (unless you are that type of player who spams the demon flurry). SA doesn't come with that movement and flexibility so it needs to have some combo finisher with great damage that can say "ok, job's done, now run for your life", or some sort of counter like GS, or LS or CB. But it hasn't. Lastly I want to say that for me, SA is an aggressive weapon that cannot be used aggressively, cause you are forced to stop your combos and that leaves to a sense of unsatisfaction.
Oh boy, trust me when i say that if you know how to use your axe and know the monster, the level of aggression is on par with the DB. I personally feel like an unrelenting tornado of steel when I'm playing with the SA.
It should be noted that you can also use the elemental discharge's final explosion for a good "wake up" move should the monster be asleep. It may not be as powerful as the "axe into sword" combo, BUT the positioning is easier and if your sword axe has status effect it has a chance to activate as well. I've seen a monster go from sleep straight into paralyze with this one move
A true Hunter is a master of all 14 Weapon. Every weapon is there for you to utilize all of it advantage in certain condition and battle. Stop claiming one weapon is better than the other just because you only use it and never try another one.
@Andrew Levister lol, charge blade user here too xD I have played MH4U so I always said that Charge Blade is the better SnS. But in World, proved me that it is better than I expected. Charge Blade super amped attack is so satisfying. XD
@Andrew Levister i feel like a normie using longsword. its the most popular weapon in MHW. Admittedly I love the weapon, especially when you get off the jumping attack at red charge
DUDE YES! I was looking for this video a few days ago since I wanted to try out switch axe, and man you always come through. Just wanted to say a quick thank you before watching. Lovin the content, now onto the video lol Really appreciate the combat video at the end as well. Nice addition to really cement the combos and what situations to perform them in.
Very nice video. As a Switch Axe main nearly 300 hours into the game, I have a few other tips: • 7:35 Arekkz mentions this isn't an attack you will be using all the time, but I assure you it absolutely should be. • If you press Triangle and Circle after the second Circle hit (as seen at 12:37), you can move into an Element Discharge much faster. • 14:51 Evade Extender is not optional, it is *ESSENTIAL!* Not only in terms of defense but in offense as all, since it allows you to move in towards monsters much faster if you're a bit further away and need to attack. The only instance where you might not want this is for monsters that are ridiculously slow (like Val Hazak for instance, where it's easy enough to avoid attacks as is). Otherwise I personally think every Switch Axe main should have this skill fully maxed at all times. -Hell if Quick Sheathe was faster I'd consider using that too, but unfortunately it's still kind of slow and clunky.- • If you wear a Rocksteady Mantle when performing an Element Discharge on a monster (as seen at 16:42), it will prevent their roars from knocking you off.
5 years later and here I am. These guides are what they call evergreen.
Although Arekkz himself is gone... I, too, continue to come back and watch his tutorials, even many years later. I just picked up Switch Axe.
@@DarkMetalOmega he ain't gone. whatchu talkin bout, willis?
@@dunetiger The guy retired, now the channel is managed by other people
@@toastedcheese7923 o. well shit. I hope he's having a good time somewhere
250 hours on solely switch axe and i still learned something from this video. Well done man.
Ya so many good points im using his build already but the combo stuff and not using reload. Pure gold.
same fam
Swagger can a fellow switch axe user get a help? how do i do the full mounted elemental discharge? mine keeps blowin up right away
You have to spam the button for the discharge, If using a controller its Triangle or Y just spam it and it will blow up at the end.
@@Nooodlicious You need No Nut November.
1:44 The Basics
4:30 Axe Moves
5:56 High reaching combo
7:39 Wake Up Swing
8:22 Sword Moves
12:23 Best Combos
13:54 Armor Skills
Thank you
Legend
Thanks
7:39 Wake Up Swing
Your a bro among bros
me: alright seems easy enough, i'll just do the combos an-
me, on an actual hunt: *OKAY FORGET THE COMBOS JUST START SWINGING AND START KILLING*
In training area: This would be a useful combo in battle...
In hunt: OOGA BOOGA ME KILL BIG LIZARD
This was me with charge blade and gun lance at first lol. I would learn like one combo/technique every 2 or 3 hunts
Ah yes, that means you're doing it right
The switch axe is the best "fake complex" weapon ever
How did you learn the secret of the switch axe mains?
Things you didn’t cover/missed:
- Quicker manual reload when jumping off ledges
- The fade morph slash from sword to axe mode can be combo’d into a side swing (triangle) or a morph slash (R2) to sword mode, for positioning
- The rising slash in axe mode can send other players flying in the air. Be aware of other players when doing that move.
- The sword damage combo adds an extra swing on the transition from 3x triangle to circle segment of the combo. That’s why it’s the damage combo, but keep in mind that circle press becomes a 3-swing move instead of 2, that leaves you very vulnerable due to how long it is
- When you perform the elemental discharge in amped state and latch onto the monster, this is not a mount and you are completely vulnerable during the entirety of it. The monster can perform any move and if it creates a hitbox on you, you will take full damage and be thrown off. This is why:
- When you’re latched onto a monster, you can quickly get off and do an early explosion by holding triangle. This offers 2 advantages: First, you can get the explosion off early and get away from the monster when you see it about to do a move that would hit/interrupt you and still get the damage and also avoid getting hit. Second, ending the discharge early has several added benefits; it costs less of your sword gauge, the landing lag is greatly reduced and a shorter animation, and you remain in sword mode. It will not switch you back to axe mode automatically
dark494 also trianle circle triangle is about the same dps and one less attack meaning you lose less gauge, also quicker meaning safer. And rocksteady +amped discharge mount = dangerous, learned that the hard way.
you can also use square instead of holding triangle,, thats how i discovered i can do it.
It's gonna take me forever to get into Monster Hunter....
@@JustHANO its been fixed you wont get onehitted with rockesteady mantle. you get quite heavy dmg (when fighting temp elders) but dont die especially when using a lifesteal augmentation i can pretty ignore what the Monster is doing and climb it like three times in a row do start the fight with massive damage
Great list! I didnt know i can do the discharge explosion earlier to avoid thrown off i cant imagine how often i knew i will fall off before it happened and coundt do anything about it
Thanks man
The gameplay at the end is a great addition! I hope it's here to stay.
Agreed, it's nice to see it in action to see when and where you have to back off.
I wanted ti say the same thing here. The tutorial is great but it can be a lot of new information. Being able to see it in action with the narration walk through is really helpful in understanding the mechanics and strategy of this weapon. I’m really exciting to try it!!!
3 years later and still useful I'm mastering all weapons so these vids are very nicely made
Still using them 😂😂
Same
🙋♂
One little thing to mention about that Amped Elemental Discharge that has you latch onto the monster, you need to be VERY careful of where and when you latch on. You will latch onto whatever body part is hit by that initial stab, and if the monster attacks with that part of its body it will count as hitting you (eg. Being on the tail during the tail swipe, or being on the face during a fireball) so latching onto a weak point directly isn't necessarily always the best idea.
On the flip side though, if you're willing to tank the hits, the Rock Steady Mantle will guarantee that you won't be knocked off no matter what. I find this extremely useful against the Kirin if done right.
Extra bonus fun fact: For whatever reason, the Urugaan rolling around isn't a full body hitbox like most monster charges, so if you latch onto his leg you can actually safely enjoy the ride. It looks hilarious.
Reload isn't quite "something you want to avoid at all costs". It has its uses. Like you have entered amped mode and the Diablos just charged away from you. You let the Diablos come back to you with another charge attack while you reload, ready to spank the monster with your now full meter.
Spank?
@Sebastian Valentin spank is infinitely funnier
This weapon still by far the coolest looking weapon in MH. Cool charge and switch mechanic, flashy elemental attacks and watching your weapon mechanically morph into a powered up state never gets old.
A year after still the best beginners guide to MHW weapons.
And I just bought the game another year later hahah
Another year has passed
Mate I'm still using this vid
@@rileycargo4295 yo same
@@sacrificialscapegoat209 same
The combat test is an AMAZING addition! Keep up the good job arrekz
FINALLY! I've been waiting on a tutorial for my main weapon!
Also can we all agree that this is the best version of Switch Axe? Personally I was tired of Generations' Switch Axe requiring you to ALWAYS be in sword mode
DeathB4Dishonor Guy it is the best weapon! ;)
DeathB4Dishonor Guy I see you are a man of SA as well
Fellow swagaxe bros! Been waiting for this too
swagaxe for life. Feels good to have all that mobility when you get a good combo going.
Joseph Meyer especially when you have that sweet sweet evade extender!
I'm over a 100hr hours with the switch axe and still was able to learn some stuff with this tutorial. Good job.
Same here! I came from older games as a SA main, so it took me a while to watch a tutorial. I really should have, because I did NOT realize I could reach the amped state so easily by just using O.
Yep same here!
Ya me too, didn’t know you could discharge mid-air from rising slash
Blockz Playz It is, for people with lives and a job. Flexing that you have thousands of hours on a game is not the best thing for your self image.
Im only starting with SA the longsword got abit stale for me
I like your video a lot, but as a switch axe main here are a few things to add for those that want it.
Poison Phial wasn't mentioned but is self explanatory and works just like the para Phial.
Para and poison Phials have a hidden element and said element does not stack with Sword mode's status amounts while unlocked. ( In the case of the barroth axe, the axe mode actually has higher paralysis) The way it works instead is that in sword mode you have a 1/3 chance of inflicting either amount and yes there is a chance to do both in one attack albeit a low one.
The exhaust switchaxe does KO damage in sword mode so it can be used to KO monsters.
While the Focus skill does work as mentioned in the video it is also important to mention that levels in focus also add to the amount of amped state build up per hit. You can essentially enter amped state twice as fast at level 3.
The Elementless skill works with dragon, para, exhaust, and poison phials if you don't unlock the hidden element. This is true even for the sword mode of these weapons despite the sword mode having an "element" or "status"
This makes all those weapons exceedingly more powerful than they initially appear. Especially in the case of the para and dragon phials.
High raw from elementless with 550 dragon. It's disgusting.
Thanks again for the video Arrekz. ^^
He also didn’t mention that the type of phial used determines how quickly you enter the amped state. Dragon takes the least amount of hits while power and status need the most. Element phials are in the middle.
Jhenaro I actually wasn't aware of that. I'll have to test and look at that when I get a chance.
Also I think it would've been worth mentioning the Phial values. Like 17 percent for power Phial ( vs the 20 it used to be) and the 30 percent for power element. ( Vs the 25 it used to be).
Dude, you or some UA-camr that manages to see this comment should make a video covering all these things as well.
Also, 550 Dragon damage!? Which Axe are YOU using, cause I need to hop on that train!
Katarina Amaxas
It's the bone switch axe maxed out. With dragon attack 5 it has 550.
I should mention's probably better to just use dragon attack 4 since the last level only gives 10 dragon attack due to elemental caps. So 540 Is what I have actually since I recently quit running dragon attack 5 and went to dragon attack 4.
The Power Smasher II? Yeah, I recently made that since it seemed deceptively good and also since I didn't want to farm Nerg gems.
I love these little mini montages you do at the beginning of the episode, idk why but it makes me hyped as hell. Great job man!
Ice borne came out and I’ve forgotten everything.
Lmao despite me soloing ATs before iceborne, when iceborne came out I forgot everything and ended up taking 30mins on beo
Same bruh I have to re-learn CB and SA
Iceborn gave switch axe a heavy slam you can use after two or more wild swings
@@MXXR35000 tbh theres not much to learn with SA, but CB is a whole other thing...
@@yikkizh_2694 CB didnt get any harder, but mmmmmm that new chainsaw mode is my lifes essence now
the switch axe was the weapon i chose to start with and i still like it a lot. aside from how fun it is to play overall, i love how it feels. i love watching the animations of combos and how weight of the weapon is used to move around with the momentum it generates, which is superbly animated. it fills my gamer-3d-artist heart with joy.
As a Bloodborne fanatic,i instantly fell in love with this weapon.
Same!
Charge Blade?
Loch "shield" lol
Man of culture.
Wow nice guide! I just started using the SA some weeks ago, but you mentioned some combo tricks I was not aware of! Thanks a lot Arekkz and keep up the great work!
Awesome vid, man. You continue to improve each week. You've really opened my horizons for MHW-gunlance and charge blade are crazy fun AND effective after watching your tutorial. You've inspired me to be a weapons master, and I can't thank you enough for making an awesome game even more rewarding.
I've mained the axe since mh3. This video is really high quality and I learned a lot. The combat at the end of the video was an excellent touch bringing everything together. Fantastic job man keep it up
Loved the tutorial! I’ve been a swax main since tri and I still learned some stuff. Great new segment at the end as well!
Just modern day note from a newb, from what I’ve found, if your running out of gauge for sword, spam the transform attack if you can, that shit will recharge the gauge like nothing else. Also if your almost out or just a bit below the line, and the monster flies off, use the Manuel reload. It may seem stupid, but your safe, and can simply rebuff your sword gauge considerably.
I've played Switch Axe since 3U and have put hundreds of hours into it in World as well. I knew the information given due to labbing it out, but this tutorial was so well made and you covered everything flawlessly. Definitely sharing this video the next time one of my friends asks me about the Switch Axe. Amazing job like always!
A great flow to get into is open in sword mode with R2. Then traingle x3 -> circle -> R2 -> circle -> R2 -> repeat. This will keep your meter up as well as dealing amazing damage. Also in my opinion Kushala legs are mandatory. Evade distance, like he said, is extremely important. Especially when you are in Sword mode. It has saved my life more times than I can count. Kushala arms are also very valuable.
Nope its not mandatory at all. Did great without it.
BoiCleancut ok
I’ve been using charge blade almost religiously. Then when you’re top 5 swax dropped decided to try it out and LOVED it. Find myself switching (see what I did there) constantly between them! Love your work and the new segment at the end is a fantastic addition! Looking forward to more!
Or the SWAX as i like to call it.
Swax on swax off
-wise swax user
@Zakka Pranggapati that's the reference I believe :D
The damage output of this weapon when used correctly is amazing! I'm glad I watched this video to master it.
Omg you read my mind. Been waiting for the good ol swag axe!
2 years too late: thank you for using "penultimate" correctly.
He's missing so much it's hilarious
@@mattjenkins2557 can you show me how to use it thn?
@@mattjenkins2557 dog he doesn’t need to hit if he’s just showing off combos
@@mattjenkins2557 if you mean his missing moves that got added in iceborne I dont think iceborne was out when this was made he has a new video for the new stuff added
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The commented gameplay at the end was great! Would love to see it done for the other weapons you've already made tutorials for.
Wow, I’m the only Switch Axe user in my friends, and it’s cool to find a Switch Axe community
Yeezy ASMR are you on Xbox?
Nope. Sorry
Yeah I normally play Hunting Horn a lot but I've been warming up to the Switch Axe. Was thinking of picking Charge Blade but it almost seems way too overtuned.
Burg Bass charge blade is easy once you get used to it.
One of the comprehensive guide explanations.., i'm glad i found this video back then..,
When Arekkz reveals mechanics on one of your favorite weapons you had no idea was there.
The extended gameplay is a really good idea. Helps really tie everything you talked about together.
The Elementless skill will still work with Sword mode even though the phial has an element.
Researcher Researching Research are you serious?
Obviously. Because the switch axe element is seperate from the phial.
If it has a dragon phial, then you can use elementless, however if I remember correctly dragon attack up will not work
Phazon Arrancar Yeah. I tried it with the Barroth SA and a few others. I initially thought that the Skill will only work in Axe mode and stop working in Sword mode; but after testing it out, it works for both Axe and Sword.
Researcher Researching Research Stew: Well I know what I'm getting!
Lovin the additions of the last segment. It gives a good situational example on how to take everything you've explained and use it in a real hunt.
An hour with switch axe and I still learned something. Good stuff man.
Dude I love the intros to these videos, you just perfectly showcase how badass each weapon can look when done right and the music just adds to the epicness
0:11 might be a stretch but to me the music kinda syncs with the hits and thats cool
Yeah
Man your videos never fail to impress me. I learned so much more about the glaive a few months ago when I first started playing, I started using the hammer, and now I’m learning the switch axe all from you. Your intros are also really cool
When you're playing on PC and you trying your best to differentiate which attack is what key
Yeah, this is the type of game where a controller is recommended.
@Alpha Shepherd yeah, game is so obviously meant to be played on a controller. I switched to controller before I even got out of training
tfw you've just learned the pc controls and ignored controllers
@Impaleification agree. I play in pc i used controller before but decided to try keyboard/mouse when i play bow and hbg and for me that's an advantage then never return to using controller even when I'm using other weapon. I can use any btw and to me there's no weapon that's not good to use using keyboard and mouse. But at first item usage is kinda clunky.
@Impaleification my item is binded in keyboard radial menu using f keys then num keys. But also binded to Q, E to scroll then R to use.
This man is so clear and quick to the meat of these weapons so easy to follow thank you my fellow hunter
Bloodborne 2 looks AMAZING!!!!!!!
This weapon and chargeblade had me ready for Bloodbornes weapon combos. I love transforming weapons, especially when they have these smooth flowing combos. I miss my ps4. Lol
Bloodborne.. But with dragons instead of monsterous infected townspeople and insanity... Also with explosions
I need Bloodborne 2, IF it comes out, MH W can be a substitute until it is out
Been a Switchaxe main for the past 3 games and here you are still taking me to school, Arekkz. Awesome tutorial and the end fight was a total help to see how to apply the combos.
This is the only weapon where Diablos weps feels right and just.
Pongze Lor whats also nice is that if you watch your damage it actually increases when in sword mode. I've only seen this with the axe of demons but my damage went from like 980 something to 1100 something it was crazy
The Diablos charge blade is the best charge blade though.
Eh I use the Power Smasher 2 now. The augments and elementless are awesome. I can only consider a fully augmented barroth grinder 2 or jagras as replacements.
The extended gameplay at the end was definitely helpful and gives me a clearer idea on what I'm looking to do
Thank you for the video. i always love your amazing videos.
Love the added gameplay review at the end.
Me watching the video: "Interesting"
My brain cells when i play: "yeah just put all that in the bin"
I just got back into this game after being away for a long time when I lost all my data. Your videos of weapons have helped me alot. I started Sword and Shield, then went to Bow, then to Great Sword and today I landed on Switch Axe and I love this weapon.
Thank you for the helpful info! Happy Hunting!
After beating bloodborne a few times with sawclever builds. The switch axe is a godsend
Just when I thought your tutorial videos couldn't get any better, WOW you blew my mind with this one. You went out of your way to make a demonstration at the end of your video, way to go man. Easy like
My second favorite weapon after Insect Glaive
Exactly what I was looking for. Amazing and thorough tutorial but what makes this top notch quality is the recommended armor skills and video clip of the weapon in action.
17:50
The attacks synced up with the music.
I love these weapon workshop videos! SO HELPFUL! Thanks for all the work you do on these!
You should do the heavy bow gun next
The battle test segment is quite helpful. Thanks for that addition to the basic tutorial.
This may be forbidden, but i use the axe mode in a whole hunt.
Mad lad
That's a weird way of saying "I'm a Heretic."
@@Manglet762 yeah
The combat test was a good addition, practical use to all the knowledge in the video.
finally this tutorial is what i am waiting for! notice me senpai😆
I've had my heels dug in on the bow forever. Looking forward to trying this thanks to the great guide
Mix set for switch axe !!!
Shock Master look up the white wind switch axe set on Google. It's pretty much Kushala pieces, Dragon king eyepatch, interchangeable waist but I like Bazel or Nerg and Diablos Swax
Shock Master and handicraft charm, evade extender and some other decorations
Cantaperme has a good damage based mixed set for the switch axe, check out his pink rathian switch solo, he gives the build at the end
Great tutorial. Clear and understandable. I really like last part - the demonstration with pink rathian. Very professional.
Am I the only one that uses the manual reload in a tactical way? No just me... oh
I thought it was strange that he said to avoid it at all costs. If you're low on phial gauge and you have an opening, then it's in your best interest to recover some energy.
I agree with both of you but since I've been using a Switch Axe sice tri I've gotten used to the timing and how long of a window I need to do it in
J Trounce he meant you'll lose your style points, gottta keep up that sss rating
Now only if Dante was in this game.
i love the new extended gameplay and commentary!! super helpful
Oh yeah notification squad 💪🏻💪🏻
Fantastic job!!! Just as a general tip to anyone, if you get in the middle of a monster (between it's legs) you can wild swing (circle,circle) almost indefinitely for a good chunk of damage and meter regen. It will often hit the monster's head and tail for decent armor break chance and the knockback resistance in the swing will prevent you being knocked down by monsters typical defense of kicking at you or doing a slight body twist. As he said it's not the greatest attack for damage, but just a little bit of versatility for the move.
Well shit, I've been playing this weapon incorrectly this entire time.
you’re not alone. my strategy before this video was spam wild swing until my gauge was full, then build up the sword mode asap and instantly discharge
definitely a good tutorial man. thanks for going so in depth on these and I really liked the extended combat at the end with the explanations of what you're doing while you're doing it. I like to switch back and forth between my switch axe, hunter horn, and hammer, and I definitely learned a lot from this vid. looking forward to the tutorials on my other main weapons!
SA tutorial: When you go ham, acknowledge the others around you and reposition.
Cody Grigsby actually the only move that I've seen trip up allies is the uppercut for the axe mode. Sowrd doesn't have effects for allies
bombomos I don't know for sure cause I don't watch the SA players close to me but it seems I get tripped off of morph slash, which seems to be the go to damage attack.
However, this really is a tutorial for ALL weapons. I wish they would do an etiquette video for positioning.
Cody Grigsby please move out our way, we have lag on our sword roll and some of us dont use evade extender, ty
When you see a Swaxeman go ham, you just stay away and let them. Lol
Finally trying it out and it's so much easier to use than it looked
Yes my weapon!
i had dabbled in SA but now i know how to use it more effectively, so i'm going to go back and finish my trees up. looks beautiful in action and the flow feels seamless, like any sort of sport where u ride something (skateboard, bike, skates, etc). I will say the battle at the end really does help put the background info into perspective, keep doing that.
Switch axe is just the baby version of the charge blade, yeah i said it.
Alright listen here you fat fu-
*Better
I absolutely love the attention to detail, even in little things like the hunter putting their right hand on their hip during the wild slash for "stability"
Finally!
Amazing video. I normally have trouble remembering what tutorials cover but this was a really easy to follow tutorial great job!
who came here afted his iceborn switch axe video
Thank you so much! Finally a comprehensive no bs guide
Wenger out
😂
Damn shame what's happening over there... #RIPARSENAL
I might be late on commenting on this, but this is the best SA guide I've seen. It polished my play style and hunts seem to be significantly quicker. Cheers mate, keep doing great content.
I may just make one. Which is the best one i should aim to make
It mainly depends on your play style, but a pretty safe one to start with or a solid bet is nerg's switchaxe (dying light), its my favorite switchaxe, i augmented it with health regen, and it is really good, my current set is dragon king's eyepatch, nerg's gauntlets, waist and chest, and kushala daora boots, + attack charm 3, its not the best build but it does provide allot of sustain and maneuverability, but again it mainly depends on your play style
Rizer M he made a video with the 5 best switch axes
Thank you all of you guys. I really appreciate the help.
Nergi SA is the safest one to start with.
For full RAW, go with Diablos. Other notable mentions are the Teostra for Blast, Baroth for Para and Vaal for Dragon.
Most SA players look for high Raw, just like when looking for GSs; so the Diablos SA is best if you want to stick with the weapon. However, the -30 affinity and the need to get it to white sharpness will be difficult to overcome; but if you are able to do so, the weapon is one of the strongest, if not the strongest, SA in game.
Search on UA-cam for swagaxe build by fightincowboy. Replace the nergigante weapon with the diablos axe of demons and the optional mighty jewel with a non elemental boost.
Singlehandedly the best build I ever played with. If you're going with power phial, axe of demons is the way to go.
Another wonderful video! The extended gameplay was a great addition. Seeing these in action helps a lot.
Don't care what anyone says but this weapon shits on the Charge Blade lmao. Swag Axe just looks so fluid and stylish. Seriously looks like something they could add in a Devil May Cry game. Likes for the Swag Axe!!!!!!!
It depends on your play style really, If you need to occasionally diss out big damage on a single sweep or do some deflect with your shield then Charge Blade is better. But if you want to be fluid with your combo and do constant damage than Switch Axe is better. If you don't give a damn shit about combo, shield, evasion, phial or what ever and you just want to smash, then the manliest weapon you can use is the Hammer.
There is never a case where Charge Blade is better. It's a jack of all trades weapon.
expect the fact that Charge Blade is placed rank 1 in the top dps weapons
Longnguchicke n Didn't majority of charge blades get nerfed recently???
you call a tiny reduction to KO damage(not damage, but KO damage,which doesn't affect health) of Impact Phial and an increase to Elemental Phial's damage a nerf?
Havent played MHW in a long time and was a charge blade main and went to switch axe cause its just as flashy…watching your tutorial videos always helps as a refresher course. 10/10 man
Personally I use Switch Axe backwards. I stay in Axe Mode more than Sword Mode.
derp derpin Thank you for the criticism, I respect your opinion even if it could have been delivered in a less hateful manner.
derp derpin Chill
Theres no wrong way. Dont listen to that idiot.
If you want the axe for its extra range, to make uo for its lack of defensive options? I say its a smart play.
As your confidence with the weapon grows, you may find yourself moving closer and wanting faster, more damaging attacks. As well as access to your elemental discharge.
But staying alive is better than taking chances for a couple extra numbers. Play smart
Diablos armor will compliment this style of play. But try to mix in some mode switching for finishers.
This isn’t the wrong way to play lmao what the hell was that first guy taking? In reality, you’re trading Damage Output for Range and Mobility. I would advise using Sword mode not only for it’s damage, but for it’s soft Hyper Armor that let’s you continue that damage.
You’ll notice, for example, Nerg’s quick forearm swipe will knock you down in Axe Form, however, Sword Form completely facetanks that hit. Don’t be scared to tank a hit because you don’t have a shield.
Thanks for the clip at the end this really helps with understanding the mindset and mental strategy of a switch axe user. I'll be trying one out soon now.
these tutorials would be WAY more helpful if you didn't give just the playstation combos
Thank you so much for this video. I'm still incredibly new to MHW so any advice given from a Monster Hunter vet is highly valued.
I don't like switch axe at all. It's a really cool weapon but for me it has too many limitations, expecially in terms of movement and flexibility. His dps is, ihmo, too much based on combos that need you to standing still for a lot. And you cannot even evade or counter an incoming attack. Maybe this is too much personal, because my gameplay is based on counters, timing and tracking (I am a CB/GS) and this weapon doesn't suit my playstyle, but I can definitely see that there's something "wrong". If you start a combo with this weapon the only way to stop it and evade an incoming attack is to STOP the combo and EVADE. Sounds stupid I know, but this weapon doesn't have a proper combo finisher (I'm excluding the discharge cause you can't pull it off when you want cause of the time it requires, and it's not a finisher since you can do it when you want if you are charged). The playstyle is based on doing this long and infinite combos (with both sword mode and axe mode), evade an attack and repeat. It's like dual blades, but with DB you can play aggressive like that cause you have a lot of movement (unless you are that type of player who spams the demon flurry). SA doesn't come with that movement and flexibility so it needs to have some combo finisher with great damage that can say "ok, job's done, now run for your life", or some sort of counter like GS, or LS or CB. But it hasn't. Lastly I want to say that for me, SA is an aggressive weapon that cannot be used aggressively, cause you are forced to stop your combos and that leaves to a sense of unsatisfaction.
CB user as well. And that locking you into an combo is what I don't like... Only weapon which is somehow fun to use for me after CB is Hammer.
Oh boy, trust me when i say that if you know how to use your axe and know the monster, the level of aggression is on par with the DB. I personally feel like an unrelenting tornado of steel when I'm playing with the SA.
@@tossicodigame ikr? People just dont know how to play aggressive because they used to hide behind a shield xD
It should be noted that you can also use the elemental discharge's final explosion for a good "wake up" move should the monster be asleep. It may not be as powerful as the "axe into sword" combo, BUT the positioning is easier and if your sword axe has status effect it has a chance to activate as well. I've seen a monster go from sleep straight into paralyze with this one move
A true Hunter is a master of all 14 Weapon. Every weapon is there for you to utilize all of it advantage in certain condition and battle. Stop claiming one weapon is better than the other just because you only use it and never try another one.
I main every weapon EXCEPT charge blade because it's so boring to use. It's not hard to master every weapon honestly
I just prefer SNS over Charge Blades sword mode, so I'd rather use SNS, since it's like my 3rd favorite weapon
@Andrew Levister lol, charge blade user here too xD
I have played MH4U so I always said that Charge Blade is the better SnS. But in World, proved me that it is better than I expected.
Charge Blade super amped attack is so satisfying. XD
@Andrew Levister i feel like a normie using longsword. its the most popular weapon in MHW. Admittedly I love the weapon, especially when you get off the jumping attack at red charge
2212 hours in and these guides are still perfect for when I haven't touched a weapon in forever
I fucking love your intros for the weapon guides they get me so excited
The gameplay addition was a good idea, you can really see everything come together
DUDE YES! I was looking for this video a few days ago since I wanted to try out switch axe, and man you always come through. Just wanted to say a quick thank you before watching. Lovin the content, now onto the video lol
Really appreciate the combat video at the end as well. Nice addition to really cement the combos and what situations to perform them in.
Very nice video. As a Switch Axe main nearly 300 hours into the game, I have a few other tips:
• 7:35 Arekkz mentions this isn't an attack you will be using all the time, but I assure you it absolutely should be.
• If you press Triangle and Circle after the second Circle hit (as seen at 12:37), you can move into an Element Discharge much faster.
• 14:51 Evade Extender is not optional, it is *ESSENTIAL!* Not only in terms of defense but in offense as all, since it allows you to move in towards monsters much faster if you're a bit further away and need to attack. The only instance where you might not want this is for monsters that are ridiculously slow (like Val Hazak for instance, where it's easy enough to avoid attacks as is). Otherwise I personally think every Switch Axe main should have this skill fully maxed at all times. -Hell if Quick Sheathe was faster I'd consider using that too, but unfortunately it's still kind of slow and clunky.-
• If you wear a Rocksteady Mantle when performing an Element Discharge on a monster (as seen at 16:42), it will prevent their roars from knocking you off.