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

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 conquer its formidable king, 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 go, the hotter and more magma-filled it becomes." The upper levels feature oil-slick swamps, transitioning to a more intense, volcanic landscape at greater depths.

Tokuda adds that the Basin transforms during the "Plenty" event, resembling an underwater volcanic ecosystem. Drawing inspiration from Monster Hunter World's Coral Highlands, the team crafted a dynamic environment, teeming with unique creatures even in its seemingly barren state.

The Nu Udra: Master of the Black Flame

The Oilwell Basin's apex predator, the Nu Udra, is a terrifying sight. This colossal, octopus-like creature boasts a flammable, slimy body, using its tentacles to ensnare prey before unleashing devastating fire attacks. Completing the elemental trio established by the Windward Plains' Rey Dau (lightning) and the Scarlet Forest's Uth Duna (water), the Nu Udra brings the heat.

Fujioka reveals the design inspiration: "I always wanted to include a tentacled monster," he says, explaining the decision to adapt an aquatic creature for a more striking, demonic appearance. The unique battle music, incorporating elements reminiscent of black magic, enhances the creature's intimidating presence.

Expect a challenging fight. The Nu Udra's multiple tentacles allow for rapid-fire attacks, both focused and area-of-effect. Flash Bombs are ineffective, as its hunting relies on its sensitive tentacles, not sight.

More Than Just the Nu Udra

The Oilwell Basin is home to other formidable creatures. The Ajarakan, a fiery, ape-like monster, utilizes martial arts-inspired attacks. The Rompopolo, a bizarre, globular creature, employs toxic gases in combat; its design, inspired by mad scientists, results in surprisingly "cute" equipment drops.

Making a triumphant return from Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate is the Gravio. Its volcanic habitat and fiery breath make it a fitting addition to the Oilwell Basin's roster.

With the February 28th release date fast approaching, Monster Hunter Wilds promises an unforgettable hunting experience.