In an exclusive reveal, Monster Hunter Wilds directors Yuya Tokuda and Kaname Fujioka introduce a brand-new region—the Oilwell Basin—and its formidable apex predator, the ferocious Nu Udra. Dive into the depths of this volcanic environment and discover what makes it one of the most dynamic locales in the series yet.

Welcome to the Oilwell Basin

As shared in an exclusive interview with IGN, the Oilwell Basin is unlike any other area seen in Monster Hunter Wilds. Designed with a vertical layout, it offers players a multi-tiered terrain that becomes increasingly intense as they descend deeper into its fiery core.

Kaname Fujioka explained, “We had two horizontally broad areas in the Windward Plains and Scarlet Forest, so we decided to make the Oilwell Basin vertically connected. The deeper you go, the more magma-filled and hot it gets.” At the upper levels, oil-like swamps dominate the landscape, gradually shifting into a hotter, more volatile terrain below—creating a unique environmental gradient.

Yuya Tokuda added insight into how the region transforms during the in-game event known as the "Plenty." During this phase, the basin adopts a marine volcano-like ecosystem. Drawing inspiration from Monster Hunter World's Coral Highlands, the development team crafted a rich biome teeming with aquatic lifeforms typically found on ocean floors.

Despite its seemingly barren appearance, the Oilwell Basin is alive with creatures uniquely adapted to its harsh conditions. From monstrous predators to smaller fauna, each plays a role in making this environment feel both alien and immersive.

Nu Udra – The Black Flame

No Monster Hunter world would be complete without a dominant apex creature, and the Oilwell Basin is ruled by none other than Nu Udra—the so-called "Black Flame."

This towering, octopus-like beast boasts a flammable, slimy exterior shaped by its surroundings. With powerful tentacles and the ability to unleash devastating flames, Nu Udra dominates its territory with terrifying precision. As part of a thematic trio with Rey Dau (lightning) of the Windward Plains and Uth Duna (water) of the Scarlet Forest, Nu Udra embodies fire and completes the elemental trifecta.

Fujioka revealed that the design was inspired by his long-standing desire to include a tentacled monster. He elaborated, “We wanted to take a typically aquatic creature and modify it for a striking visual effect.” The result? A horned, demon-like appearance that enhances its menacing aura.

Tokuda also praised the game's soundtrack, noting that the battle music incorporates motifs reminiscent of black magic and occult themes. “The composers did a great job integrating those elements—it gives the fight a truly unique atmosphere,” he said.

Fighting Nu Udra presents a significant challenge. Its array of tentacles allows for rapid AoE attacks and precise strikes alike. Additionally, it’s immune to Flash Bombs, relying instead on tactile feedback through its limbs to detect prey.

Other Monsters of the Oilwell Basin

While Nu Udra stands as the undisputed king of the basin, several new and returning monsters also inhabit the region:

• Ajarakan – A massive, flame-covered primate that combines brute strength with fiery martial arts-style attacks.
• Rompopolo – A bizarre, globular creature armed with needle-like jaws and toxic gas emissions. Inspired by the classic mad scientist trope, Rompopolo brings a tricky and unpredictable combat style. Interestingly, its materials can be crafted into surprisingly cute gear for both Hunters and Palicos.
• Gravio – A fan-favorite from Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate, Gravio returns with its rocky armor and fiery breath. According to Tokuda, it fits seamlessly into the Oilwell Basin’s volcanic aesthetic and gameplay balance.

With such an exciting lineup of monsters and a richly designed environment, anticipation for Monster Hunter Wilds continues to build. Set for release on February 28, 2025, the game promises an expansive open-world experience filled with danger, discovery, and unforgettable battles.

Stay tuned for more updates as launch day approaches.