From the scorching deserts to the lush forests, the Monster Hunter series immerses players in a rich tapestry of environments, each teeming with a unique array of monsters. The thrill of exploring these diverse landscapes, facing off against formidable creatures, is one of the hallmarks of the franchise. This experience continues in the latest installment, Monster Hunter Wilds, as players venture into the treacherous Oilwell Basin, a realm defined by its fiery terrain and hidden secrets.
Exploring the Oilwell Basin
The Oilwell Basin is a harsh landscape dominated by flames and viscous oilsilt. As players traverse this environment, they will encounter obstacles like dripping oil and bubbling magma that add to the sense of danger. However, beneath this seemingly barren surface lies a thriving ecosystem, with small creatures wriggling in the muck and remnants of an ancient civilization scattered throughout.
Yuya Tokuda, the director of both Monster Hunter: World and Wilds, provides insight into the Basin’s unique characteristics. “During the Fallow, the Oilwell Basin is a place filled with mud and oil. When the Inclemency known as the Firespring arrives, it burns away the oilsilt, revealing the minerals and microorganisms hidden beneath,” he explains. This dynamic environment changes dramatically between different states, offering players diverse hunting experiences.
The Design Philosophy Behind the Basin
Kaname Fujioka, the director of the original Monster Hunter and the executive director and art director for Wilds, shares the development team’s vision for the Oilwell Basin. “After creating the horizontally broad locations of the Windward Plains and Scarlet Forest, we aimed to design the Oilwell Basin as a vertically connected space,” he states. This verticality allows for varying environments as players explore the top, middle, and bottom strata, each with its unique challenges and creatures.
The ecosystem within the Oilwell Basin is crafted to highlight the stark contrasts between life sustained by sunlight and vegetation, and that which thrives on geothermal energy. While shellfish like shrimp and crabs inhabit the oilsilt, larger monsters prey on smaller ones, creating a complex food web that is both fascinating and deadly.
Introducing New Monsters: Rompopolo and Ajarakan
Among the new creatures inhabiting the Oilwell Basin are Rompopolo and Ajarakan. Rompopolo is a globular monster that utilizes toxic gas to create chaos, designed with inspiration from the concept of a mischievous mad scientist. Its unique design features a chemical purple hue and glowing red eyes, adding to its whimsical yet threatening nature.
Ajarakan, on the other hand, resembles a massive flaming gorilla with a more refined silhouette compared to other beasts. Its martial arts-inspired movements and flashy attacks make it a formidable opponent. Tokuda notes, “We wanted to create a monster that combines strength with a unique personality, making it feel both powerful and approachable.”
The Apex Predator: Nu Udra
At the top of the food chain in the Oilwell Basin is Nu Udra, known as the “Black Flame.” This octopus-like creature, covered in flammable oil, is designed to embody the elements of its environment. Tokuda and Fujioka reveal that the inspiration for Nu Udra came from the desire to create a tentacled monster that could move fluidly within its environment.
Nu Udra’s design is not only visually striking but also deeply integrated into the gameplay mechanics. Its tentacles allow for dynamic interactions during battles, as players must adapt to its unpredictable movements. The developers emphasize that Nu Udra represents a significant technical achievement, showcasing the team’s dedication to creating immersive and challenging encounters.
Challenges of Defeating Nu Udra
Facing Nu Udra presents a unique set of challenges for players. Its flexible body and numerous breakable parts require hunters to strategize their attacks carefully. Tokuda explains, “While the tentacles are soft and have many breakable sections, players should determine where to strike to maximize their effectiveness. Cutting off a tentacle will reduce its area of effect attacks, allowing for better mobility.”
Fujioka adds that defeating Nu Udra can feel reminiscent of classic action games, where players learn to adapt their strategies as they break its parts. The design philosophy behind Nu Udra encourages observation and tactical planning, making it a rewarding experience for dedicated hunters.
Revisiting Gravios
In addition to the new monsters, players will encounter Gravios, a familiar foe from past titles. Tokuda and Fujioka decided to reintroduce Gravios due to its compatibility with the Oilwell Basin’s environment, ensuring that players face a fresh challenge as they progress through the game.
Monster Hunter Wilds is set to release on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC on February 28. The game promises to deliver thrilling new experiences, including exciting encounters with Ajarakan, Rompopolo, and the formidable Nu Udra. As fans await the release, the development team is eager to showcase the depth and intricacies of the Oilwell Basin and its diverse inhabitants.
In Conclusion
With its captivating environments and innovative monster designs, Monster Hunter Wilds is shaping up to be an exhilarating addition to the beloved franchise. The developers’ commitment to creating unique ecosystems and challenging gameplay experiences ensures that players will have plenty of adventures awaiting them in the Oilwell Basin.
