Monster Hunter Wilds New Monster, Nu Udra of the Oilwell Basin, Revealed by Director

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

An exclusive interview with directors Yuya Tokuda and Kaname Fujioka sheds light on a new location and formidable monsters in Monster Hunter Wilds. Prepare to explore the Oilwell Basin and face its fearsome ruler, the Nu Udra.

Delving into the Oilwell Basin

Unlike the series' typically expansive horizontal 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-like swamps, transitioning to a more intense environment at lower depths.

Tokuda adds that the "Plenty" event dramatically alters the Basin's appearance. 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, like a volcano. But during Plenty, it's clear, marine-like. The creatures reflect this underwater environment." These unique creatures add another layer of depth to the Basin's already distinct ecosystem.

Nu Udra: The Black Flame

The Oilwell Basin's apex predator, the Nu Udra, is a formidable foe. This massive, octopus-like monster possesses a flammable, slimy body, utilizing its tentacles to ensnare prey before unleashing devastating fire attacks. Completing the elemental trio (Rey Dau – lightning, Uth Duna – water), Nu Udra brings a fiery challenge.

Fujioka reveals the design inspiration: "I always wanted a tentacled creature. We took an aquatic creature and modified it for a striking look." The demonic aesthetic, enhanced by horn-like head elements and a unique battle theme, adds to its intimidating presence. Tokuda notes the music's "black magic" influences, creating a truly memorable soundscape.

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

Additional Basin Dwellers

Beyond Nu Udra, other formidable monsters inhabit the Basin. The Ajarakan, a fiery, monkey-like creature, utilizes martial arts-inspired attacks, combining brute strength with fire power. Then there's the Rompopolo, a globular monster with needle-like mouthparts, employing toxic gases in combat. Its design, inspired by mad scientists, results in surprisingly "cute" equipment drops.

Making a return from Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate is Gravio. Its volcanic habitat and fiery breath make it a fitting addition to the Oilwell Basin's ecosystem. Tokuda explains its inclusion: "We considered monsters fitting the environment, game progression, and avoiding similarity to others. Gravios offered a fresh challenge."

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