Mounting & Toppling Monsters
Mounting is a unique combat mechanic in Monster Hunter World: Iceborne that allows hunters to temporarily gain control of a monster. Successfully mounting a monster involves performing a specific aerial attack or chaining together a series of successful attacks while the monster is in a vulnerable state, often after being launched into the air. Once mounted, you'll enter a mini-game where you must press specific button prompts to stay on the monster's back and deal damage. Successfully completing the mounting sequence will result in a powerful takedown, leaving the monster prone on the ground for a significant duration, allowing all hunters to unleash a barrage of attacks.
The ability to mount is often triggered by jumping attacks, ledge attacks, or certain weapon-specific moves. Weapons like Insect Glaive are particularly adept at initiating mounts due to their aerial capabilities. Even other weapons can achieve mounts through strategic use of the environment, such as jumping off ledges or using slinger ammo to create openings. The key is to build up "mount damage" on the monster. Once enough mount damage is accumulated, the monster will become susceptible to a mount attempt.
Beyond the direct damage and the extended knockdown, successfully mounting can also interrupt a monster's aggressive attack patterns and provide a much-needed breather for the hunting party. It's a high-risk, high-reward maneuver that, when executed effectively, can turn the tide of a difficult fight. Coordinating mounts with your team can lead to incredibly efficient hunts, especially when combined with other crowd-control effects or environmental traps. Mastering the timing and execution of mounting is a valuable skill for any seasoned hunter.