Monster Hunter Wilds: Unveiling the Oilwell Basin and its Fiery Inhabitants
In an exclusive interview with IGN, Monster Hunter Wilds directors Yuya Tokuda and Kaname Fujioka shed light on a new location and formidable monsters. Prepare to conquer the Oilwell Basin and its fearsome ruler, the Nu Udra.
Delving into the Oilwell Basin
Unlike the series' typically expansive horizontal environments, the Oilwell Basin boasts a unique vertical structure. Fujioka explains, "With the Windward Plains and Scarlet Forest already established as horizontally broad, we opted for a vertically connected Oilwell Basin. The deeper you venture, the hotter and more magma-filled it becomes." The upper levels feature oil-like swamps, with a gradual shift in environment as you descend.
Tokuda adds that the "Plenty" event dramatically alters the Basin's appearance. Lower levels transform into an underwater volcanic ecosystem, drawing inspiration from Monster Hunter World's Coral Highlands. "During Fallow and Inclemency, the Basin resembles a volcanic hot spring, but during Plenty, it takes on a clear, marine-like appearance. The unique creatures inhabiting this region further enhance its distinct character."
Nu Udra: The Black Flame
The Oilwell Basin's apex predator, the Nu Udra, is a colossal, octopus-like monster with a flammable, slimy body. It uses its tentacles to ensnare prey before unleashing devastating fire attacks. Fujioka reveals, "I've always wanted to incorporate a tentacled creature. We took an aquatic creature and modified it for a more striking appearance." The demonic design, complemented by unique battle music evocative of black magic, adds to its imposing presence.
Nu Udra presents a formidable challenge, utilizing both focused and area-of-effect attacks with its numerous tentacles. Its immunity to Flash Bombs, relying instead on its tactile sense, adds another layer of difficulty.
More Oilwell Basin Inhabitants
Beyond the Nu Udra, the Basin is home to other formidable creatures. The Ajarakan, a fiery, monkey-like monster, employs martial arts-inspired attacks. The Rompopolo, a globular monster with needle-like mouthparts, utilizes toxic gas in combat. Its design was inspired by stereotypical mad scientists, resulting in a "tricky monster" whose drops yield surprisingly "cute" equipment.
Making a return from Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate is Gravio, whose fiery breath and rocky carapace perfectly complement the Oilwell Basin's volcanic environment. Tokuda explains, "Considering the environment, overall game progression, and avoiding similarity to other monsters, we felt Gravio would be a fresh challenge."
With these exciting reveals, anticipation builds for Monster Hunter Wilds' release on February 28th.
