Monster Hunter Wilds: Unveiling the Oilwell Basin and its Fiery Inhabitants
An exclusive interview with directors Yuya Tokuda and Kaname Fujioka sheds light on a new location and formidable monsters in Monster Hunter Wilds. Prepare to explore the Oilwell Basin and confront its fearsome ruler, the Nu Udra.
Delving into the Oilwell Basin
Unlike the series' typical horizontally expansive locales, the Oilwell Basin boasts a unique vertical structure. Fujioka explains, "We had two horizontally broad locales already, so we opted for a vertically connected design. The deeper you go, the hotter and more magma-filled it becomes." The upper levels are swampy, transitioning to a volcanic environment at greater depths.
Tokuda adds that the Basin transforms during the "Plenty" event, resembling an underwater volcano ecosystem. This design draws inspiration from Monster Hunter World's Coral Highlands. "During Fallow and Inclemency, it's smoky, like a volcano. But during Plenty, it's clear, marine-like. The creatures reflect this oceanic shift."
The Basin’s unique ecosystem supports a diverse range of creatures, defying its initially desolate appearance.
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 the design intention: "I always wanted a tentacled creature. We took an aquatic creature and gave it a demonic look, adding horn-like elements." This design is further enhanced by its battle music, incorporating elements reminiscent of black magic.
Nu Udra presents a significant challenge, employing both focused and area-of-effect attacks with its numerous tentacles. Its immunity to Flash Bombs adds another layer of difficulty.
More Oilwell Basin Inhabitants
Beyond Nu Udra, the Basin is home to other formidable creatures. The Ajarakan, a fiery, monkey-like monster, utilizes martial arts-inspired attacks. The Rompopolo, a globular monster with needle-like mouthparts, employs toxic gases in combat, its design inspired by a mad scientist. Surprisingly, its drops yield "cute" equipment.
A familiar face also returns: Gravio from Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate. Its volcanic habitat and fiery breath made it a natural fit for the Oilwell Basin. Tokuda explains, "We considered its environmental suitability, game progression, and uniqueness compared to other monsters."
With these exciting reveals, anticipation builds for Monster Hunter Wilds' launch on February 28th.
