New Monster in Monster Hunter Wilds: Nu Udra

Monster Hunter Wilds: Unveiling the Oilwell Basin and its Fiery Inhabitants

The directors of Monster Hunter Wilds have shared exclusive details about a new location and its formidable inhabitants in a recent interview with IGN. Prepare to explore the Oilwell Basin and face its terrifying ruler, the Nu Udra.

Delving into the Oilwell Basin

Unlike the horizontally expansive locales typical of the series, the Oilwell Basin boasts a unique vertical structure. Director Fujioka explains, "We had two horizontally broad locales already, so we opted for a vertically connected design. The deeper you venture, the hotter and more magma-filled it becomes." The upper levels are characterized by oil-slick swamps, with a gradual shift in environment as you descend.

Tokuda adds that the Basin transforms dramatically 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, it's smoky, like a volcano. But during Plenty, it's clear, marine-like. The creatures reflect this oceanic shift." The Basin's unique ecosystem supports a diverse range of creatures, making it a surprisingly vibrant environment despite its desolate appearance.

Nu Udra: The Black Flame

The Oilwell Basin's apex predator is the Nu Udra, a fearsome, octopus-like monster with a flammable, slimy body. It uses its tentacles to ensnare prey before unleashing devastating fire attacks. Fujioka reveals the design intention: "I always wanted a tentacled creature. We took an aquatic creature and modified it for a striking look, aiming for a demonic aesthetic." The horn-like head elements and unique battle music, inspired by black magic, enhance this demonic feel.

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 the Nu Udra

The Oilwell Basin is home to other formidable monsters. The Ajarakan, a fiery, monkey-like creature, employs martial arts-inspired attacks. The Rompopolo, a globular monster with needle-like mouthparts, utilizes toxic gases. Its design was inspired by stereotypical mad scientists, resulting in a "tricky monster" whose drops yield surprisingly "cute" equipment.

A familiar face also returns: Gravio, from Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate, makes a comeback, fitting seamlessly into the volcanic environment. Tokuda explains, "Considering the environment, game progression, and avoiding similarity to other monsters, Gravios felt like a fresh challenge."

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