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

Directors Yuya Tokuda and Kaname Fujioka of Monster Hunter Wilds recently offered IGN an exclusive glimpse into the game's upcoming content, introducing a new locale and its formidable inhabitants. Prepare to explore the Oilwell Basin and face its fiery ruler, the Nu Udra.

Delving into the Oilwell Basin

Unlike the series' typical horizontally expansive maps, the Oilwell Basin boasts a unique vertical structure. Fujioka explains, "With the Windward Plains and Scarlet Forest already established as horizontally broad areas, we opted for a vertically connected design for the Oilwell Basin. The deeper you venture, the hotter and more magma-filled it becomes." The upper levels are primarily oil-slick swamps, transitioning gradually downwards.

Tokuda adds that the Basin transforms during the "Plenty" event. The lower levels resemble an underwater volcanic ecosystem, drawing inspiration from Monster Hunter World's Coral Highlands. "During Fallow and Inclemency, the Basin resembles a volcanic hot spring, but during Plenty, it takes on a clear, marine-like appearance. The unique creatures inhabiting this area further emphasize its distinct ecosystem."

The Black Flame: Nu Udra

The Oilwell Basin's apex predator, the Nu Udra, is a fearsome octopus-like creature with a flammable, slimy body. Its powerful tentacles ensnare prey before unleashing devastating fire attacks. Fujioka reveals the design inspiration: "I always wanted to include a tentacled monster. We took an aquatic creature and modified it for a more striking appearance, aiming for a demonic look with horn-like head elements." The accompanying battle music enhances this demonic theme with black magic-inspired instrumentation.

Nu Udra presents a significant challenge, utilizing both focused 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 Than Just Nu Udra

The Oilwell Basin isn't solely dominated by Nu Udra. The fiery Ajarakan, a large, scaly, monkey-like creature, employs martial arts-inspired attacks. The Rompopolo, a globular monster with needle-like mouthparts, utilizes toxic gas in combat. Its design was inspired by stereotypical mad scientists, resulting in a "tricky monster" with surprisingly "cute" equipment drops.

Making a return from Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate is Gravio, whose volcanic-region habitat and fiery breath make it a fitting addition to the Oilwell Basin's roster. Tokuda explains its inclusion: "Considering the environment, the game's progression, and avoiding overlap with other monsters, we felt Gravio would offer a fresh challenge."

With these exciting reveals, anticipation for Monster Hunter Wilds' February 28th release is at fever pitch.