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 unveiled the game's newest locale: the Oilwell Basin, a vertically-structured environment unlike any seen before in the series. This unique setting is home to a terrifying new trio of monsters, each with its own distinct abilities and challenging combat style.

Delve into the Oilwell Basin

Unlike the horizontally expansive landscapes of previous games, the Oilwell Basin offers a layered, vertical challenge. Fujioka explains, "The deeper you venture, the hotter and more magma-filled it becomes." The upper levels are swampy and oily, gradually transitioning into a fiery, almost underwater volcano ecosystem during the "Plenty" event. This transformation, inspired by the Coral Highlands from Monster Hunter World, showcases a unique underwater volcanic biome teeming with life.

Tokuda highlights the dynamic nature of the environment, stating that during the Fallow and Inclemency seasons, the basin resembles a volcanic hot spring, while the Plenty season reveals its marine-like qualities. This environmental shift is reflected in the unique creatures inhabiting the basin, further emphasizing its distinct ecosystem.

Meet the Nu Udra: The Black Flame

The Oilwell Basin's apex predator is the Nu Udra, a fearsome octopus-like monster with a flammable, slimy body. Fujioka reveals the design inspiration: "I always wanted to add a tentacled creature," explaining their decision to adapt an aquatic creature for a more striking, demonic appearance. The Nu Udra’s design, complete with horn-like head elements, is complemented by a unique battle theme evocative of black magic. Its combat style is intensely challenging, utilizing both targeted and area-of-effect attacks with its numerous tentacles. Adding to the difficulty, the Nu Udra is immune to Flash Bombs, relying on its tactile senses rather than sight.

More Than Just the Nu Udra

The Oilwell Basin is not solely the domain of the Nu Udra. Hunters will also face the Ajarakan, a fiery, monkey-like monster with martial arts-inspired attacks, and the Rompopolo, a bizarre, globular creature that utilizes toxic gas in combat. The Rompopolo's design, inspired by mad scientists, is surprisingly juxtaposed with the "cute" equipment crafted from its materials.

Making a triumphant return is Gravio, a familiar face from Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate. Its inclusion in the Oilwell Basin is a natural fit, given its volcanic habitat and fiery breath. Tokuda explains that Gravio's inclusion provides a fresh challenge while complementing the overall monster roster.

With the Oilwell Basin and its formidable inhabitants revealed, anticipation for Monster Hunter Wilds' February 28th release is at a fever pitch.