"New Monster Nu Udra Unveiled in Monster Hunter Wilds"

In an exclusive interview with IGN, Monster Hunter Wilds directors Yuya Tokuda and Kaname Fujioka reveal a brand-new region and its dominant monster — the Oilwell Basin and the fearsome Nu Udra. Discover what makes this area and its apex predator stand out in the wilds of the game.

Monster Hunter Wilds Introduces The Black Flame, Nu Udra

Welcome To Oilwell Basin

The Oilwell Basin distinguishes itself from other environments in the series through its vertical design. As Fujioka explained, "We had two horizontally expansive areas in the Windward Plains and Scarlet Forest, so we decided to create something more vertically connected. The deeper you go, the hotter and more magma-filled the environment becomes." He added that the upper layers are primarily oil-like swamps, forming a distinct gradient throughout the region.

Tokuda further elaborated on how the environment changes during the Plenty event. Upon reaching the center or lower levels of the basin, players will encounter an underwater volcano-like ecosystem. The development team drew inspiration from the Coral Highlands in Monster Hunter World when designing this version of the Oilwell Basin. "During Fallow and Inclemency, smoke rises from every crevice like a volcanic vent or hot spring. However, during the Plenty, it transforms into a clear marine environment," Tokuda shared. "Look closely at the environmental biology, and you’ll notice creatures typically found on the ocean floor."

These unique species are native only to the Oilwell Basin, contributing to its ecological singularity. Though seemingly lifeless at first glance, the region is teeming with diverse monsters and wildlife.

Nu Udra, The Black Flame

No Monster Hunter region would be complete without a powerful apex predator — and the Oilwell Basin delivers with the terrifying Nu Udra, known as the "Black Flame." This massive, octopus-like creature possesses a flammable, slimy body shaped by its harsh surroundings. It uses its long, slithering tentacles to ensnare prey before unleashing devastating flames that reduce enemies to ash.

Nu Udra joins the elemental trio seen in previous locales: Rey Dau (lightning) rules the Windward Plains, Uth Duna (water) dominates the Scarlet Forest, and now Nu Udra brings fire dominance to the Oilwell Basin.

Fujioka revealed that creating a tentacled monster was a long-held goal. “I’ve always wanted to include a creature with tentacles,” he said. The team reimagined a typically aquatic form to fit the Oilwell Basin’s aesthetic and gave it horn-like features for a more demonic appearance. Tokuda added that the battle music was designed to reflect this dark tone. “Our composers incorporated phrases and instruments reminiscent of black magic. I think it turned out to be a truly unique and impactful piece.”

Fighting Nu Udra is no easy task. Its multiple tentacles allow for both precise and wide-area attacks executed in rapid succession. Additionally, it's immune to Flash Bombs, relying on touch rather than sight to detect prey.

More Monsters In The Basin

Nu Udra isn't the only dominant monster lurking in the Oilwell Basin. Another notable inhabitant is Ajarakan — a large, scaly primate cloaked in flames. It employs martial arts-inspired techniques and frequently uses its fists in combat. Combining brute strength with fire-based abilities, Ajarakan presents a fresh and challenging threat.

Then there's Rompopolo — a globular monster with thin needle-like appendages around its mouth. It utilizes toxic gases during battle and sports a menacing look with its purple hue and glowing red eyes. According to developers, Rompopolo was inspired by the classic mad scientist trope and is described as a "tricky monster" to fight. Despite its eerie appearance, its materials can be crafted into surprisingly charming gear for both the hunter and their Palico companion.

Returning from Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate, Gravio also calls the Oilwell Basin home. Known for its rocky shell and fiery breath, Gravio fits naturally into the volatile environment. Tokuda noted that the team sought monsters fitting the region’s theme, offering a unique challenge. “When considering which monsters matched the Oilwell Basin’s setting, made sense within the game’s progression, and didn’t play similarly to others, we realized Gravios could feel fresh again — so we brought it back.”

With these exciting reveals, anticipation continues to build for the release of Monster Hunter Wilds on February 28th. Prepare to enter the wilds and face off against some of the fiercest creatures ever seen in the franchise.