Director Unveils Nu Udra, New Monster in Monster Hunter Wilds' Oilwell Basin

Monster Hunter Wilds Introduces The Black Flame, Nu Udra

Welcome To Oilwell Basin

The Oilwell Basin stands out with its vertical structure, a departure from the typically expansive horizontal locales of the series. "We chose to design the Oilwell Basin as a vertically connected area to contrast with the Windward Plains and Scarlet Forest," explained Fujioka. He detailed that the basin's layers transition from oil-like swamps at the top to magma-filled depths, creating a striking environmental gradation.

Tokuda added that during the game's "Plenty" event, the Oilwell Basin transforms into an underwater volcano ecosystem. Drawing inspiration from the Coral Highlands of Monster Hunter World, this transformation shifts the area into a clear, marine-like environment. "During Fallow and Inclemency, the Basin resembles a volcanic region with smoke everywhere, but during the Plenty, it adopts a clear, ocean-like atmosphere," Tokuda remarked. He highlighted the presence of creatures typically found on the ocean floor, emphasizing the area's unique biodiversity.

Nu Udra, The Black Flame

Dominating the Oilwell Basin is the apex predator, Nu Udra, known as the "Black Flame." This formidable creature, resembling a massive octopus, adapts to its environment with a slimy, flammable body. Nu Udra uses its tentacles to ensnare prey before incinerating them with fiery blasts. As part of a trio of elemental rulers alongside Rey Dau of the Windward Plains and Uth Duna of the Scarlet Forest, Nu Udra embodies the power of fire.

Fujioka shared his long-held desire to introduce a tentacled creature, aiming to adapt an aquatic species into a striking, demonic form. "We added horn-like features to its head to enhance its menacing appearance," he said. The battle against Nu Udra is underscored by a unique soundtrack, featuring elements of black magic, as Tokuda explained. "We incorporated musical phrases and instruments that evoke black magic, creating a distinctive and compelling piece of music."

Combat with Nu Udra is intense, with the monster using both focused and area-of-effect attacks rapidly. Its immunity to Flash Bombs, due to its reliance on tentacles rather than vision, adds an extra layer of challenge to the encounter.

More Monsters In The Basin

Beyond Nu Udra, the Oilwell Basin hosts other formidable creatures. The Ajarakan, a large, scaly, monkey-like monster enveloped in flames, employs martial arts-inspired combat. Its powerful fists and fire-based attacks make it a fearsome adversary and a fresh addition to the Monster Hunter series.

Another intriguing inhabitant is the Rompopolo, a globular creature with a needle-like mouth that emits toxic gases. Its eerie purple hue and glowing red eyes evoke the image of a mad scientist, an inspiration the developers confirmed. "Rompopolo is a tricky monster," they noted, yet its drops can be crafted into surprisingly cute equipment for both Hunters and their Palico companions.

The Oilwell Basin also sees the return of Gravios from Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate. Its rocky carapace and fiery breath make it a fitting addition to this volcanic environment. "We chose Gravios to reappear because it fits the Oilwell Basin's setting and offers a fresh challenge," said Tokuda.

With these exciting reveals, anticipation builds for the release of Monster Hunter Wilds on February 28th.