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 unveiled the Oilwell Basin, a unique, vertically-structured locale, and its fearsome ruler, the Nu Udra.

Delve into the Oilwell Basin

Unlike the series' typical horizontally expansive maps, the Oilwell Basin offers a layered experience. Fujioka explains, "The deeper you venture, the hotter and more magma-filled it becomes." The upper levels are swampy oil fields, transitioning to a volcanic, almost underwater ecosystem at the lower depths. This transformation, influenced by the Coral Highlands from Monster Hunter World, is particularly dramatic during the "Plenty" event. Tokuda notes, "During the Plenty, it takes on a clear, marine-like tone... inhabited by creatures you'd expect to find on the ocean bed." This unique environment is teeming with life, despite its initially desolate appearance.

Nu Udra: The Black Flame Terror

The Oilwell Basin's apex predator, the Nu Udra, is a colossal, octopus-like creature with a flammable, slimy body. Its powerful tentacles ensnare prey before unleashing devastating fire attacks. Fujioka reveals the design inspiration: "I’ve always wanted to add a tentacled creature... taking a normally aquatic creature and modifying it for a striking look." The demonic aesthetic, complete with horn-like head protrusions and a fittingly ominous soundtrack, adds to its terrifying presence. Flash Bombs are ineffective against this vision-independent behemoth. Expect a challenging fight with its rapid-fire attacks, combining focused strikes and area-of-effect blasts.

More Than Just Nu Udra

The Oilwell Basin isn't just home to one formidable foe. The fiery, ape-like Ajarakan utilizes martial arts-inspired moves and devastating fists. The bizarre, spiky Rompopolo, resembling a mad scientist's creation, employs toxic gas attacks. Surprisingly, its drops yield "cute" equipment. Even a familiar face returns: Gravio from Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate, perfectly suited to the volcanic environment. Tokuda explains its inclusion: "When we were thinking of monsters that match the Oilwell Basin's environment... we thought that we could make Gravios seem like a fresh challenge."

With its diverse monster roster and unique environment, the Oilwell Basin promises an unforgettable hunting experience. Get ready for Monster Hunter Wilds, launching February 28th!