New Monster Nu Udra Rises from the Depths in Monster Hunter Wilds

Monster Hunter Wilds developers unveil a new environment and formidable foe in an exclusive interview. Discover the Oilwell Basin and its fearsome ruler, the Nu Udra.

Exploring the Oilwell Basin

IGN's exclusive interview with directors Yuya Tokuda and Kaname Fujioka introduces the Oilwell Basin, a unique vertical locale unlike the series' typical horizontal landscapes. Fujioka explains the basin's layered structure: "The deeper you go, the hotter and more magma-filled it becomes." The upper levels are swampy oilfields, transitioning to a volcanic ecosystem at the lower depths.

Tokuda adds that the basin transforms during the "Plenty" event, resembling an underwater volcano. The design draws inspiration from Monster Hunter World's Coral Highlands, featuring unique creatures found in deep-sea environments. The seemingly barren landscape teems with life, creating a distinct and compelling ecosystem.

Nu Udra: The Black Flame

The Oilwell Basin's apex predator is the Nu Udra, a massive, octopus-like monster with a flammable, slimy body. It uses its tentacles to ensnare prey before unleashing fiery attacks. Completing the elemental trio (Rey Dau – lightning, Uth Duna – water), Nu Udra wields the power of fire.

Fujioka explains the design inspiration: "I always wanted to include a tentacled creature." They modified a typically aquatic creature for a more striking, demonic appearance, adding horn-like features. The battle music complements this design, evoking black magic and demonic imagery. Tokuda notes, "The composers incorporated musical elements reminiscent of black magic, creating a unique and powerful soundtrack."

Battles are intensely challenging. Nu Udra's multiple tentacles allow for rapid-fire attacks, both focused and area-of-effect. Flash Bombs are ineffective, as its hunting relies on its tactile sense.

Additional Oilwell Basin Inhabitants

Beyond Nu Udra, other formidable creatures inhabit the basin. The Ajarakan, a fiery, monkey-like monster, utilizes martial arts-inspired attacks. The Rompopolo, a globular monster with needle-like mouthparts, employs toxic gas in combat. Its design was inspired by mad scientists, resulting in a "tricky monster" whose drops yield surprisingly "cute" equipment.

A returning monster, Gravio (from Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate), also appears in the Oilwell Basin, fitting its volcanic environment and offering a fresh challenge.

The February 28th release of Monster Hunter Wilds promises an exciting adventure.