Monster Hunter Wilds: Unveiling the Oilwell Basin and its Fiery Inhabitants
Prepare for a volcanic adventure! In an exclusive interview with IGN, Monster Hunter Wilds directors Yuya Tokuda and Kaname Fujioka showcased the game's newest locale: the Oilwell Basin, and its fearsome inhabitants.
Delving into the Oilwell Basin
Unlike the series' typical sprawling landscapes, the Oilwell Basin boasts a unique vertical structure. Fujioka explains, "We had two horizontally broad locales already, so we opted for a vertically connected area. The deeper you go, 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. This design draws inspiration from Monster Hunter World's Coral Highlands, transforming during the "Plenty" event to resemble a vibrant marine environment. Tokuda notes the unique flora and fauna that thrive in this seemingly barren landscape.
Meet the Nu Udra: The Black Flame
The Oilwell Basin's apex predator, the Nu Udra, is a formidable foe. This massive, octopus-like creature boasts a flammable, slimy body and uses its tentacles to ensnare prey before unleashing devastating fire attacks. Completing the elemental trio (Rey Dau – lightning, Uth Duna – water), the Nu Udra brings a fiery challenge. Fujioka reveals the design inspiration: "I always wanted to include a tentacled creature. We took an aquatic creature and gave it a more striking, demonic look." The monster's unique battle theme further enhances its menacing presence, incorporating elements reminiscent of black magic.
The Nu Udra 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.
More Than Just the Nu Udra
The Oilwell Basin is teeming with other formidable monsters. The Ajarakan, a fiery, monkey-like creature, utilizes martial arts-inspired attacks. The Rompopolo, a bizarre, globular monster, employs toxic gas in combat. Its design, inspired by mad scientists, contrasts with the surprisingly "cute" equipment crafted from its materials.
A familiar face also returns: Gravio, from Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate, makes a comeback, fitting seamlessly into the volcanic environment.
With these exciting reveals, the anticipation for Monster Hunter Wilds' release on February 28th is undeniable.
