Monster Hunter Wilds Interview: Meet Nu Udra, Apex of the Oilwell Basin – IGN First

Exploring Monster Hunter Wilds' Oilwell Basin: A Deep Dive into its Ecosystem and Monsters

Monster Hunter Wilds introduces the Oilwell Basin, a unique locale drastically different from previous environments like the Windward Plains and Scarlet Forest. This fiery, oil-silt-covered landscape, described by director Yuya Tokuda, transforms dramatically depending on the in-game "Fallow," "Inclemency," and "Plenty" cycles. During the Fallow, the basin is mud- and oil-filled; Inclemency brings fire, burning away the oilsilt; and Plenty reveals the minerals and artifacts hidden beneath.

Executive Director and Art Director Kaname Fujioka explains the Basin's vertical design, with distinct upper, middle, and lower strata, each possessing unique environmental characteristics and temperature gradients. The lower levels, resembling deep-sea or underwater volcanic environments, inspired the creation of the Basin's unique ecosystem, drawing on lessons learned from World's Coral Highlands. Fujioka emphasizes the contrast between the barren, smoky landscape during Fallow and Inclemency and its vibrant, marine-like appearance during Plenty.

Rompopolo: The Toxic Trickster

Rompopolo, a globular, noxious monster, was designed with the concept of a "mad scientist" in mind, resulting in its chemical purple hue and glowing red eyes. Fujioka highlights the unexpected cuteness of its crafted equipment, both for the hunter and their Palico companion.

Ajarakan: The Fiery Brawler

Ajarakan, a flame-wreathed gorilla-like monster, stands in contrast to Rompopolo. Its design emphasizes straightforward power, utilizing powerful punches and slams to create fiery eruptions. Tokuda explains the design choice of a top-heavy silhouette to better convey the threat it poses, contrasting with the lower-to-the-ground posture of typical fanged beasts.

Nu Udra: The Apex Predator

The Oilwell Basin's apex predator, Nu Udra ("Black Flame"), is a tentacled monster inspired by octopuses. Its design, with a deliberately ambiguous face and demonic horns, creates a striking silhouette. Tokuda notes that the music accompanying Nu Udra battles incorporates elements reminiscent of black magic, enhancing the demonic imagery. The development team, including Tokuda, had long desired to create a monster utilizing the unique movement capabilities of a cephalopod, a concept finally realized in Wilds thanks to advancements in game technology. Nu Udra's animations, particularly its ability to navigate and squeeze through tight spaces, are a testament to the team's dedication to detail. The monster's many tentacles, all severable, present a unique challenge, with its sensory organs indicating its next target. Flash Bombs are ineffective against it, as it doesn't rely on vision.

Gravios's Return

The Oilwell Basin also features the return of Gravios, last seen in Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate. Its hard, rocky carapace and emission of hot gas make it a fitting inhabitant of this environment. Tokuda explains the decision to reintroduce Gravios, emphasizing its unique characteristics and the challenge it presents to experienced hunters. The team focused on retaining Gravios's signature hardness while integrating it seamlessly into Wilds' gameplay mechanics.

A Glimpse into the Development Process

The interview reveals the Monster Hunter team's meticulous approach to monster design and their dedication to realizing even the most ambitious concepts. The creation of Nu Udra, with its complex animations and unique movement, stands as a testament to their commitment to innovation and pushing technological boundaries. The team's willingness to experiment and overcome technical challenges is evident throughout the development process.

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