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 face its fiery ruler, the Nu Udra.

Delving into the Oilwell Basin

Unlike the series' typically sprawling landscapes, the Oilwell Basin boasts a unique vertical structure. Fujioka explains, "With the Windward Plains and Scarlet Forest already established as horizontally expansive areas, we opted for a vertically interconnected design for the Oilwell Basin. The deeper you venture, the hotter and more magma-filled it becomes." The upper levels feature oil-slick swamps, transitioning to a more intense volcanic environment at lower depths.

Tokuda adds that the Basin's appearance dramatically shifts during the "Plenty" event. The lower levels transform into an underwater volcanic ecosystem, drawing inspiration from Monster Hunter World's Coral Highlands. "During the Fallow and Inclemency periods, the Basin resembles a volcanic hot spring, emitting smoke everywhere. However, during the Plenty, it takes on a clear, marine-like appearance. Observe the unique flora and fauna, reminiscent of creatures found on the ocean floor." This unique ecosystem supports a diverse range of creatures, defying its initially desolate appearance.

Nu Udra: The Black Flame Terror

The Oilwell Basin's apex predator is the fearsome Nu Udra, a colossal, octopus-like monster. Its flammable, slimy body, a product of its environment, allows it to ensnare prey with its tentacles before unleashing devastating fire attacks. Completing the elemental trio alongside the Windward Plains' Rey Dau (lightning) and the Scarlet Forest's Uth Duna (water), Nu Udra brings a potent fire affinity to the game.

Fujioka reveals the design inspiration: "I've always wanted to incorporate a tentacled creature. We took a typically aquatic creature and modified it for a more striking appearance." The demonic aesthetic, enhanced by horn-like head protrusions, is further emphasized by its unique battle music, evoking black magic and demonic imagery. Tokuda notes, "The composers incorporated musical phrases and instruments reminiscent of black magic, creating a truly unique and impactful soundtrack."

Prepare for a challenging battle. Nu Udra's numerous tentacles allow for both focused and area-of-effect attacks in rapid succession. Its immunity to Flash Bombs, relying on its tentacles rather than sight, adds another layer of difficulty.

More Than Just Nu Udra

Nu Udra isn't alone. The fiery Ajarakan, a massive, flame-covered, monkey-like creature, utilizes martial arts-inspired movements and powerful fist attacks. The Rompopolo, a bizarre globular monster with needle-like mouthparts, employs toxic gases in combat, its purple hue and glowing eyes adding to its menacing presence. The developers cite the stereotypical mad scientist as inspiration for its design, calling it a "tricky monster," despite its surprisingly "cute" equipment drops.

Making a triumphant return is Gravio, last seen in Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate. Its rocky carapace, fiery breath, and association with volcanic regions make it a fitting addition to the Oilwell Basin's roster. Tokuda explains, "Considering monsters suitable for the environment, the game's progression, and avoiding similarity to other monsters, we felt Gravio would present a fresh challenge."

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