Nu Udra: Monster Hunter Wilds' New Oilwell Basin Monster Unveiled

Dive into the thrilling world of Monster Hunter Wilds as directors Yuya Tokuda and Kaname Fujioka unveil an exciting new locale and a formidable monster in an exclusive interview with IGN. Discover the secrets of the Oilwell Basin and its ruler, the Nu Udra.

Monster Hunter Wilds Introduces The Black Flame, Nu Udra

Welcome To Oilwell Basin

The directors of Monster Hunter Wilds, Yuya Tokuda and Kaname Fujioka, shared insights into the Oilwell Basin—a unique, vertically structured area that diverges from the series' traditional horizontally expansive locales. "We opted for a vertical design after creating the Windward Plains and Scarlet Forest," Fujioka explained. "As you delve deeper, the environment transitions from oil-like swamps to magma-filled zones, creating a striking gradation."

Tokuda highlighted how the Oilwell Basin transforms during the event known as the Plenty. "When you reach the central or lower levels, it resembles an underwater volcano ecosystem," he noted. The design draws inspiration from the Coral Highlands of Monster Hunter World. "During the Fallow and Inclemency, smoke billows from the Basin, resembling a volcano or hot spring. However, during the Plenty, it shifts to a clear, marine-like atmosphere, teeming with life reminiscent of the ocean bed."

This distinct environment is home to a variety of unique creatures, making the Oilwell Basin a vibrant yet challenging locale to explore.

Nu Udra, The Black Flame

The Oilwell Basin's apex predator, the "Black Flame" Nu Udra, is a monstrous octopus with a body adapted to its fiery environment. Utilizing its tentacles, Nu Udra captures prey before engulfing them in flames. Alongside Rey Dau of the Windward Plains and Uth Duna of the Scarlet Forest, Nu Udra completes the elemental trio with its affinity for fire.

Fujioka expressed his long-standing desire to include a tentacled creature in the game. "We transformed a typical aquatic creature into something more striking and demonic," he said. The monster's design includes horn-like elements, and its battle music evokes themes of black magic, as Tokuda added, "We incorporated musical elements reminiscent of black magic for a unique auditory experience."

Facing Nu Udra is a daunting challenge due to its numerous tentacles and rapid, varied attacks, including both focused and area-of-effect moves. Its immunity to Flash Bombs, as it relies on its tentacles to sense its surroundings, adds another layer of difficulty.

More Monsters In The Basin

The Oilwell Basin is not solely the domain of Nu Udra. The fiery Ajarakan, a massive, scaly monkey-like creature, also roams the area. Its martial arts-inspired attacks and fiery fists make it a formidable opponent.

Another intriguing inhabitant is the Rompopolo, a globular monster with a needle-like mouth that emits toxic gases. Inspired by the mad scientist archetype, Rompopolo's eerie appearance contrasts with the surprisingly cute equipment crafted from its drops, suitable for both Hunters and their Palico companions.

The Oilwell Basin also sees the return of Gravio from Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate. Its rocky carapace and fiery breath make it a fitting addition to the volcanic environment. "We chose Gravio to offer a fresh challenge in the Basin," Tokuda stated, emphasizing the monster's compatibility with the locale's theme and the game's progression.

With these exciting revelations, anticipation builds for the release of Monster Hunter Wilds on February 28th.