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 Oilwell Basin, a unique, vertically-structured locale, and its fearsome inhabitants.

Delving into the Oilwell Basin

Unlike the series' typical sprawling landscapes, the Oilwell Basin offers a vertical challenge. Fujioka explains, "We had two horizontally broad locales...so we decided to make the Oilwell Basin a vertically connected place. The deeper you go, the more magma-filled and hot it gets." The upper levels are swampy and oily, transitioning to a volcanic, almost underwater ecosystem deeper down, drawing inspiration from Monster Hunter World's Coral Highlands. Tokuda notes the environment transforms during the "Plenty" event, shifting from a smoky, volcanic landscape to a clearer, marine-like setting.

This unique environment boasts a diverse ecosystem, teeming with life despite its initially desolate appearance.

Nu Udra: The Black Flame Terror

The Oilwell Basin's apex predator is the Nu Udra, a colossal, octopus-like monster with a flammable, slimy body. Its powerful tentacles ensnare prey before unleashing devastating fire attacks. Fujioka reveals the design intention: "I’ve always wanted to add a tentacled creature...we thought of taking a normally aquatic creature and modifying them." The demonic aesthetic, complete with horn-like head protrusions, is further enhanced by its unique battle music, described by Tokuda as incorporating "phrases and musical instruments reminiscent of black magic." The Nu Udra's immunity to Flash Bombs adds another layer of difficulty, relying on its tentacles to sense its surroundings rather than sight.

More Than Just the Nu Udra

The Oilwell Basin isn't just home to the Nu Udra. Other formidable monsters include:

• Ajarakan: A massive, fiery monkey-like creature employing martial arts-inspired attacks.
• Rompopolo: A bizarre, globular monster with needle-like mouthparts and toxic gas attacks, inspired by the stereotypical mad scientist. Its drops yield surprisingly "cute" equipment.
• Gravios: A returning monster from Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate, fitting seamlessly into the volcanic environment.

With its diverse monster roster and unique environment, the Oilwell Basin promises an unforgettable hunting experience. Get ready for the release of Monster Hunter Wilds on February 28th!