Introduction
Monster Hunter: World has taken the gaming world by storm, and with its vast array of weapons, armor, and gameplay mechanics, it’s no wonder that players are always on the lookout for the best gear to take down the toughest monsters. One of the most versatile and powerful weapons in the game is the Switch Axe, a hybrid of the Axe and Sword that offers a unique playstyle and incredible damage output. But with so many Switch Axes to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is the best. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Switch Axes, exploring the top options, their strengths and weaknesses, and what makes them stand out from the rest.
The Basics Of Switch Axes
Before we dive into the best Switch Axes, it’s essential to understand how they work. The Switch Axe is a complex weapon that requires a good understanding of its mechanics to wield effectively.
Switch Axe Modes
The Switch Axe has two primary modes: Axe mode and Sword mode. Axe mode is slow but powerful, dealing massive damage with each swing. Sword mode is faster and more agile, allowing for quicker attacks and better mobility. The key to mastering the Switch Axe is learning when to switch between these modes to take advantage of different situations.
Elemental Damage
Switch Axes can deal elemental damage, which is essential for taking down monsters with elemental weaknesses. There are five elements: Fire, Ice, Thunder, Dragon, and Poison. Each element has its strengths and weaknesses, and choosing the right element for the job can make all the difference.
Top Switch Axes In Monster Hunter: World
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s get to the good stuff – the top Switch Axes in the game. We’ll explore their stats, strengths, and weaknesses, and what makes them stand out from the rest.
Diwem苏tte (Best For Elemental Damage)
The Diwem苏tte is a top contender for dealing elemental damage. With a base elemental damage of 390 and an affinity of 20%, this Switch Axe is a force to be reckoned with. Its high elemental damage output and moderate attack power make it an excellent choice for taking down monsters with elemental weaknesses.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Attack Power | 720 |
| Elemental Damage | 390 |
| Affinity | 20% |
Glacial Axe (Best For Ice Damage)
The Glacial Axe is a top pick for Ice elemental damage. With a base Ice damage of 420 and an affinity of 25%, this Switch Axe is perfect for taking down monsters weak to Ice. Its high Ice damage output and moderate attack power make it a great choice for farmers and speedrunners alike.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Attack Power | 680 |
| Ice Damage | 420 |
| Affinity | 25% |
Ragebuster (Best For Raw Damage)
The Ragebuster is a powerhouse of a Switch Axe, dealing massive raw damage with each swing. With a base attack power of 840, this Switch Axe is perfect for taking down tough monsters quickly. Its high raw damage output and moderate elemental damage make it a great choice for general gameplay.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Attack Power | 840 |
| Elemental Damage | 240 |
| Affinity | 15% |
Other Notable Switch Axes
While the above Switch Axes are some of the best in the game, there are other notable options worth considering.
Xeno’diablos (High Attack Power)
The Xeno’diablos is a high-attack-power Switch Axe with a base attack power of 820. While its elemental damage output is moderate, its high raw damage makes it a great choice for taking down tough monsters.
Aquablaze (High Fire Damage)
The Aquablaze is a high-fire-damage Switch Axe with a base Fire damage of 400. Its moderate attack power and high Fire damage output make it an excellent choice for taking down monsters weak to Fire.
Conclusion
Choosing the best Switch Axe in Monster Hunter: World depends on your playstyle and the monsters you’re facing. Whether you’re looking for elemental damage, raw damage, or a balance of both, there’s a Switch Axe out there for you. By understanding the basics of Switch Axes and exploring the top options, you’ll be well on your way to taking down even the toughest monsters. Remember to always consider your armor, skills, and playstyle when choosing a Switch Axe, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different options to find what works best for you. Happy hunting!
What Is A Switch Axe And How Does It Work?
A Switch Axe is a versatile weapon in Monster Hunter: World that combines the power of an axe with the swiftness of a sword. It has two primary modes: a heavy axe mode for dealing massive damage and a swift sword mode for quick combos and dodging. The Switch Axe is a valuable addition to any hunter’s arsenal, offering a unique playstyle that can be both defensive and offensive.
The Switch Axe’s dual modes allow for adaptability in combat, making it suitable for various hunting styles. Axe mode provides a slow but powerful attack, while sword mode offers speed and agility. The weapon’s gauge fills as you land attacks, allowing you to switch between modes seamlessly. Mastering the Switch Axe requires understanding its intricacies, including its unique moveset, elemental weaknesses, and coatings.
What Are The Key Characteristics To Look For When Choosing A Switch Axe?
When selecting a Switch Axe, it’s essential to consider several key characteristics, including its raw attack power, elemental damage, and affinity. Raw attack power determines the weapon’s base damage output, while elemental damage dictates the type and amount of elemental damage dealt. Affinity affects the weapon’s critical hit chance, making it a crucial factor in landing devastating blows.
Other important characteristics include the Switch Axe’s sharpness, which affects its damage output over time, and its phial type, which influences the weapon’s elemental damage and coatings. Additionally, consider the Switch Axe’s weight, which impacts the hunter’s mobility and evasion capabilities. By balancing these characteristics, you can find a Switch Axe that suits your hunting style and play preferences.
What Is The Difference Between Phials And Coatings?
Phials and coatings are essential components of the Switch Axe, as they enhance its elemental damage and capabilities. Phials are small containers that store elemental energy, which is released when the Switch Axe’s gauge is full. There are several phial types, each providing a unique elemental benefit, such as increased fire damage or improved stun chances.
Coatings, on the other hand, are special enhancers that can be applied to the Switch Axe’s blades. These coatings offer additional elemental damage, status effects, or even health regeneration. By selecting the appropriate phial and coating combination, you can tailor your Switch Axe to tackle specific monsters and hunting scenarios, ensuring maximum effectiveness in combat.
How Do I Upgrade My Switch Axe?
Upgrading your Switch Axe is crucial to staying competitive in Monster Hunter: World. There are several ways to upgrade your weapon, including forging new Switch Axes with upgraded materials or augmenting your existing weapon with charms and decorations. You can also upgrade your Switch Axe’s phials and coatings to improve its elemental damage and abilities.
To upgrade your Switch Axe, you’ll need to gather rare materials, such as Anjanath scales or Dragonite ore, and craft new weapons or enhancements using the game’s crafting system. Additionally, you can participate in high-level hunts and events to earn exclusive upgrade materials. By consistently upgrading your Switch Axe, you can stay ahead of the curve and take on even the toughest monsters.
What Are The Best Switch Axe Elemental Types?
The best Switch Axe elemental type depends on your hunting style, the monsters you’re facing, and your personal preferences. However, some elemental types are more versatile than others. Fire elemental Switch Axes are excellent for dealing massive damage to large monsters, while ice elemental Switch Axes are ideal for taking down agile, fast-moving targets.
Thunder and dragon elemental Switch Axes offer unique benefits, such as stunning or knocking down monsters, making them easier to target. Poison and paralysis elemental Switch Axes are useful for softening up monsters, making them more vulnerable to attacks. Ultimately, the best elemental type for you will depend on your combat strategy and the specific monsters you’re hunting.
Can I Use A Switch Axe With Any Hunting Style?
While the Switch Axe is a versatile weapon, it’s more suited to certain hunting styles than others. The Switch Axe excels in aggressive, melee-focused hunting styles, where its raw power and elemental damage can be fully utilized. However, it can also be used in more defensive or ranged hunting styles, albeit with some adjustments to the hunter’s playstyle.
For example, a defensive hunter can use the Switch Axe’s defensive capabilities, such as its guard and counterattacks, to weather a monster’s attacks before striking back with powerful axe mode attacks. A ranged hunter can use the Switch Axe’s sword mode to quickly close the distance and deal swift, precise attacks before retreating to a safe distance. With practice and adaptation, the Switch Axe can be fitted to most hunting styles.
Are There Any Switch Axe-specific Skills Or Abilities I Should Know About?
Yes, there are several Switch Axe-specific skills and abilities that can enhance your hunting experience. One of the most important is the Switch Axe’s ZSD (Zero Sum Discharge) ability, which allows you to release a powerful elemental blast that deals massive damage. Another key skill is the Switch Axe’s counterattack, which can be used to punish monsters for their aggression.
Additionally, there are various skills and abilities that complement the Switch Axe’s unique playstyle, such as increased elemental damage, improved affinity, or enhanced phial effects. By mastering these skills and abilities, you can unlock the full potential of the Switch Axe and take your hunting to the next level.