New Monster Unveiled for Monster Hunter Wilds

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 shed light on the game's newest locale and its fearsome inhabitants. Get ready to explore the Oilwell Basin and face its formidable ruler, the Nu Udra.

Delving into the Oilwell Basin

Unlike the series' typically expansive horizontal environments, 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 descend, the hotter and more magma-filled it becomes." The upper levels are characterized by oil-slick swamps, transitioning to a more intense, volcanic environment at lower depths.

Tokuda adds that the Basin transforms dramatically during the "Plenty" event. The lower levels resemble an underwater volcanic ecosystem, drawing inspiration from Monster Hunter World's Coral Highlands. "During Fallow and Inclemency, it's smoky and volcanic. But during Plenty, it's clear and marine-like. The unique creatures found there are reminiscent of deep-sea life." This unique ecosystem supports a diverse range of creatures, defying its seemingly barren appearance.

Nu Udra: The Black Flame Terror

The Oilwell Basin's apex predator is the fearsome Nu Udra, a colossal, octopus-like creature with a flammable, slimy body. Its powerful tentacles ensnare prey before unleashing devastating fire attacks. Fujioka reveals, "I always wanted a tentacled monster," explaining the design choice of adapting an aquatic creature for a more striking, demonic appearance. The unique battle music further enhances this demonic aesthetic, incorporating elements reminiscent of black magic.

Nu Udra presents a significant challenge, utilizing both focused and area-of-effect attacks with its numerous tentacles. Its immunity to Flash Bombs, relying instead on its tactile senses, adds another layer of difficulty.

More Than Just Nu Udra

The Oilwell Basin is teeming with other formidable monsters. The Ajarakan, a fiery, ape-like creature, utilizes martial arts-inspired attacks. The Rompopolo, a bizarre, globular monster, employs toxic gas in combat, its design inspired by classic mad scientist tropes. Despite its unsettling appearance, its rewards yield surprisingly "cute" equipment.

Making a triumphant return is Gravio, last seen in Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate. Its volcanic habitat and fiery breath make it a perfect fit for the Oilwell Basin. Tokuda explains, "Considering the environment, game progression, and avoiding similarities to other monsters, Gravios offered a fresh challenge."

With these exciting reveals, the anticipation for Monster Hunter Wilds' February 28th release is at fever pitch.