New Monster Nu Udra Unveiled for 'Monster Hunter Wilds'

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 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, "Following the Windward Plains and Scarlet Forest, we opted for a vertically interconnected design. 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 "Plenty" event dramatically alters the Basin's appearance. Lower levels transform into an underwater volcanic ecosystem, drawing inspiration from Monster Hunter World's Coral Highlands. "During Fallow and Inclemency, it's volcanic, but during Plenty, it takes on a clear, marine-like quality. The unique creatures found there reflect this underwater environment."

The Black Flame: Nu Udra

The Oilwell Basin's apex predator, the Nu Udra, is a colossal, octopus-like creature with a flammable, slimy body. It uses its tentacles to ensnare prey before unleashing devastating flames. Completing the elemental trio (Rey Dau – lightning, Uth Duna – water), the Nu Udra commands the power of fire.

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 look, aiming for a demonic aesthetic." The horn-like head elements and unique battle music, reminiscent of black magic, enhance this demonic feel.

Battles against Nu Udra are intensely challenging. Its multi-tentacle attacks combine focused and area-of-effect strikes, and its immunity to Flash Bombs adds another layer of difficulty.

More Oilwell Basin Inhabitants

Beyond Nu Udra, other formidable monsters reside in the Basin. The Ajarakan, a fiery, monkey-like creature, utilizes martial arts-inspired attacks. The Rompopolo, a globular monster with needle-like mouthparts, employs toxic gases. Its design was inspired by stereotypical mad scientists, resulting in a "tricky" monster with surprisingly "cute" equipment drops.

A familiar face also returns: Gravio, from Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate. Its volcanic habitat and fiery breath make it a fitting addition to the Oilwell Basin's roster.

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