"Guide: Capturing and Defeating Xu Wu in Monster Hunter Wilds"

While exploring the mysterious region of Wyveria in Monster Hunter Wilds, you’ll encounter a range of formidable creatures, one of the most notable being Xu Wu. Though not as overwhelming as Nu Udra, Xu Wu is still a swift and deadly opponent that demands focus and strategy.

Recommended Videos: Monster Hunter Wilds – Xu Wu Boss Fight Guide

Screenshot by The Escapist

Known Habitats: Wyveria
Breakable Parts: Head, Mouth, Arms
Recommended Elemental Attack: Ice
Effective Status Effects:

• Poison (3x)
• Paralysis (2x)
• Blastblight (2x)
• Stun (2x)
• Exhaust (2x)
• Sleep (1x)

Effective Items: Pitfall Trap, Shock Trap

Stay on Your Guard

Xu Wu is an exceptionally agile foe in Monster Hunter Wilds. Its erratic movements and dark, shadow-like appearance make it difficult to track, especially since its front and back are nearly indistinguishable—similar to Nu Udra. With multiple limbs and the ability to vanish into walls, it can reappear unexpectedly, often dropping from the ceiling onto your position. This behavior is limited to its nest area, so remain especially vigilant when fighting within this zone. Keep your distance, watch for environmental cues, and be ready to dodge at a moment’s notice.

Exploit Ice Weakness

Xu Wu is highly vulnerable to Ice-element damage. Hunters using ranged weapons can take advantage of Ice-based ammo, while melee users should prioritize gear that boosts Ice elemental output. Consider equipping a Frost Jewel to activate the Ice Attack skill for added damage. Carrying a Frost Pod is also a smart move—it can be launched via the slinger to deal direct Ice damage and potentially interrupt dangerous attacks.

Counter the Grab Mechanic

In addition to slashing attacks and rapid dives, Xu Wu can grab hunters with its tentacles. Once caught, you’re immobilized and unable to use weapons. However, you have roughly two seconds to escape. The fastest way out is using your slinger—firing a projectile like a Frost Pod not only frees you but also deals damage to the monster, making it a doubly effective choice.

Target the Mouth and Head

The most vulnerable spot on Xu Wu is its mouth, located beneath its body. This weak point is only exposed during specific animations, such as when the monster lunges forward. Timing a strong melee strike during this window can deal massive damage and may even break the mouth, rewarding you with Xu Wu’s fang upon completion.

If the mouth isn’t accessible, aim for the head. It has a 4-star weakness to both cutting and blunt damage and a 3-star weakness to ranged attacks, making it a reliable alternative for consistent damage output.

Apply Poison and Other Status Effects

With a 3-star susceptibility to Poison, Xu Wu is an ideal target for hunters who favor status-based strategies. Bows equipped with Poison Coating are particularly effective, allowing you to apply the ailment from a safe distance. While Paralysis, Stun, and Blastblight are also viable, avoid relying on Sleep—it has minimal impact on this monster and is unlikely to hold.

Related: Monster Hunter Wilds Weapon Tier List (Best Weapons to Use)

How to Capture Xu Wu

Screenshot by The Escapist

Once Xu Wu’s health drops to 20%, the option to capture becomes available. Set either a Pitfall Trap or a Shock Trap in an area where the monster is likely to move. Using meat as bait increases the chance of success, though experienced hunters can use themselves as bait to lure Xu Wu into position. After the trap triggers, quickly fire a tranquilizer dart to secure the capture. You only have a few seconds—act fast, or the monster will break free.

Hunting Xu Wu in Monster Hunter Wilds is a test of reflexes and preparation. With its speed, unpredictable movements, and environmental tactics, staying alert and managing your stamina are crucial. Use Ice attacks, exploit its weaknesses, and time your dodges carefully to bring this elusive wyvern down.

Monster Hunter Wilds is now available on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.