"Monster Hunter Wilds Unveils Nu Udra, New Monster from Oilwell Basin"

Monster Hunter Wilds directors have unveiled a thrilling new locale and a formidable monster in an exclusive interview with IGN. Dive into the details about the Oilwell Basin and its dominant creature, the Nu Udra.

Monster Hunter Wilds Introduces The Black Flame, Nu Udra

Welcome To Oilwell Basin

In their interview, directors Yuya Tokuda and Kaname Fujioka introduced players to the Oilwell Basin, a unique vertical environment in Monster Hunter Wilds. Unlike the series' typical horizontally expansive areas, the Oilwell Basin features a vertical structure. "We had two horizontally broad locales in the Windward Plains and Scarlet Forest, so we decided to make the Oilwell Basin a vertically connected place. The deeper you go, the more magma-filled and hot it gets," explained Fujioka. He highlighted that the upper strata are characterized by oil-like swamps, creating a gradient across the locale.

Tokuda added that during the event called the Plenty, the Oilwell Basin transforms into an underwater volcanic ecosystem. Drawing inspiration from the Coral Highlands in Monster Hunter World, the team designed this area to shift dramatically. "During the Fallow and Inclemency, smoke emerges from the Oilwell Basin, resembling a volcano or hot spring. But during the Plenty, it takes on a clear, marine-like tone. This region is home to creatures you'd typically find on the ocean floor," Tokuda noted, emphasizing the diverse and unique wildlife that inhabits the seemingly lifeless environment.

Nu Udra, The Black Flame

The apex predator of the Oilwell Basin is the "Black Flame," Nu Udra. This monstrous octopus-like creature is adapted to its environment with a slimy, flammable body. Nu Udra uses its tentacles to ensnare prey before incinerating them with scorching flames, complementing the elemental trio with Rey Dau's lightning and Uth Duna's water. Fujioka shared his long-standing desire to include a tentacled creature, saying, "I’ve always wanted to add a tentacled creature at some point." The team transformed this aquatic concept into a demonic entity with horn-like features, enhancing its eerie appearance and battle theme. "We had the composers include phrases and musical instruments reminiscent of black magic. It ended up being a unique and good piece of music," Tokuda added, describing the battle against Nu Udra as challenging due to its multiple tentacles and rapid attack sequences. It's immune to Flash Bombs, relying instead on its tentacles to sense its surroundings.

More Monsters In The Basin

Beyond Nu Udra, the Oilwell Basin hosts other formidable creatures. The Ajarakan, a massive, flame-covered, monkey-like monster, uses martial arts-inspired movements and powerful fists in combat, blending physical strength with fire-based attacks. Another newcomer, the Rompopolo, features a globular body with a needle-like mouth and emits toxic gases. Its purple hue and glowing red eyes evoke a mad scientist theme, though its drops result in surprisingly cute equipment for Hunters and their Palico companions.

Returning to the series, Gravio from Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate finds a fitting home in the Oilwell Basin. Its rocky carapace and fiery breath align well with the volcanic environment. "When considering monsters that fit the Oilwell Basin's environment and the game's progression, we thought Gravios could offer a fresh challenge," Tokuda explained.

With these exciting revelations, anticipation builds for Monster Hunter Wilds, set to launch on February 28th.