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, vertically structured locale: the Oilwell Basin, and its fearsome ruler, the Nu Udra. This departure from the series' typical horizontally expansive maps offers a unique gameplay experience.
Delving into the Oilwell Basin
Fujioka explains the Basin's layered design: "The deeper you descend, the hotter and more magma-filled it becomes." The upper levels are swampy and oily, transitioning to a volcanic, almost underwater ecosystem at the lower depths, particularly during the "Plenty" event. This transformation, inspired by Monster Hunter World's Coral Highlands, introduces unique creatures reminiscent of deep-sea life.
Tokuda highlights the environmental shift during the Plenty event: "During Fallow and Inclemency, it's volcanic; during Plenty, it's clear and marine-like." This dynamic environment houses a diverse array of creatures, defying its initially desolate appearance.
Nu Udra: The Black Flame Terror
The Oilwell Basin's apex predator, Nu Udra, is a colossal, octopus-like monster with a flammable, slimy body. Its powerful tentacles ensnare prey before unleashing devastating fire attacks. Fujioka reveals the design inspiration: "I always wanted a tentacled creature," explaining the decision to adapt an aquatic creature for a more striking, demonic appearance, complete with horn-like head structures. The accompanying battle music, described by Tokuda as incorporating "phrases and musical instruments reminiscent of black magic," enhances the creature's menacing presence.
Nu Udra's combat presents a significant challenge, utilizing both single-target and area-of-effect attacks with its numerous tentacles. Its immunity to Flash Bombs adds another layer of difficulty.
Additional Oilwell Basin Inhabitants
Beyond Nu Udra, the Oilwell Basin harbors other formidable foes. The Ajarakan, a fiery, monkey-like beast, employs martial arts-inspired attacks. The Rompopolo, a bizarre, globular creature with needle-like mouthparts, utilizes toxic gases, its design inspired by stereotypical mad scientists. Surprisingly, its drops yield "cute" equipment.
A familiar face also returns: Gravio, from Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate, makes a comeback, fitting seamlessly into the volcanic landscape. Tokuda explains its inclusion: "We thought Gravio would be a fresh challenge."
With the Oilwell Basin and its inhabitants revealed, anticipation builds for Monster Hunter Wilds' release on February 28th.
