New Monster from Monster Hunter Wilds Revealed: Nu Udra of the Oilwell Basin

Monster Hunter Wilds: Unveiling the Oilwell Basin and its Fiery Inhabitants

In an exclusive interview with IGN, Monster Hunter Wilds' directors, Yuya Tokuda and Kaname Fujioka, shed light on a new location and its formidable inhabitants. Prepare to explore the Oilwell Basin and face its terrifying ruler, the Nu Udra.

Delving into the Oilwell Basin

Unlike the series' typical horizontally expansive locales, 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 go, the hotter and more magma-filled it becomes." The upper levels feature oil-slick swamps, transitioning to a more intense, volcanic environment at lower depths.

Tokuda adds that the Basin's appearance dramatically shifts during the "Plenty" event. The lower levels transform into an underwater volcanic ecosystem, drawing inspiration from Monster Hunter World's Coral Highlands. "During Fallow and Inclemency, it's smoky, volcanic. But during Plenty, it's clear, almost marine. The creatures reflect this, resembling deep-sea life." This unique ecosystem supports a diverse range of creatures, defying its initially desolate appearance.

Nu Udra: The Black Flame Terror

The Oilwell Basin's apex predator, the Nu Udra, is a fearsome, octopus-like monster with a flammable, slimy body. Its powerful tentacles ensnare prey before unleashing devastating fire attacks. Fujioka reveals the design intention: "I always wanted a tentacled creature. We took an aquatic creature and gave it a more striking, demonic look," adding horn-like features to enhance its menacing presence. This design is complemented by its unique battle theme, incorporating elements reminiscent of black magic.

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

More Oilwell Basin Inhabitants

Beyond Nu Udra, the Basin houses other formidable creatures. The Ajarakan, a fiery, ape-like monster, utilizes martial arts-inspired combat with devastating fire-enhanced punches. The Rompopolo, a bizarre, spiky creature, employs toxic gases in its attacks, its unsettling appearance inspired by classic mad scientist tropes. Surprisingly, its drops yield "cute" equipment.

Making a return from Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate is Gravio, a fitting addition to the Oilwell Basin's volcanic environment. Tokuda explains its inclusion: "Considering the environment, game progression, and avoiding similarity to other monsters, Gravios offered a fresh challenge."

With these exciting reveals, anticipation builds for Monster Hunter Wilds' release on February 28th.