HoYoverse is venturing into the realm of monster-collecting games with its latest title, Honkai: Nexus Anima. This new game showcases a vibrant world filled with anime-inspired creatures that players can nurture and engage in battles. While there are clear similarities to established franchises like Pokémon, Nexus Anima appears to offer a far broader range of activities and expansive locations that outshine what players might expect from traditional games in the genre.
At the heart of Honkai: Nexus Anima lies a narrative that, while steeped in anime tropes, sets the stage for an engaging experience. The story revolves around the concept of the ‘Nexus,’ a balance that has been disrupted, resulting in the scattering of powers throughout the world as monsters known as Anima emerge. As players progress, they will uncover the protagonist’s enigmatic backstory while forming connections with these creatures. The primary focus remains on collecting Anima, and while HoYoverse has not introduced a direct counterpart to iconic creatures like Pikachu, the game undeniably draws parallels to the beloved Pokémon franchise.
The artistic style of Nexus Anima shares a charming anime aesthetic akin to Pokémon, and many of the Anima will likely remind players of familiar Pokémon characters. For instance, one creature resembles a stout orange dog that evokes memories of a mix between Fidough and Yamper. Another character resembles a cute pink bear, reminiscent of Stufful. Additionally, there’s a quirky bird-like creature sporting a colonial-era wig, echoing the traits of Pelipper, albeit with a unique twist. Among the cast, there’s also a dark, feline-inspired Anima that may remind fans of Umbreon, yet with a distinctively playful flair.
While it’s easy to draw comparisons to real-world animals and existing Pokémon, Nexus Anima stands out with its creative designs that lean heavily on food inspirations. Players will encounter Anima that look like walking avocados or various dessert-themed creatures, showcasing the game’s whimsical creativity. The gameplay mechanics also share some familiar elements, such as riding Anima, playing with them—like riding a seesaw together—and gathering in communal spaces like pet parks. Players can feed their Anima treats and engage in various interactive activities.
However, Nexus Anima introduces gameplay features not seen in traditional monster-collecting games. For example, in one gameplay segment, players witness an Anima using a launcher to shoot down floating orbs, showcasing a dynamic approach to interactions. In another instance, a creature reminiscent of Stufful is seen wreaking havoc inside a house, drawing on the concept of a rage room.
Combat in Nexus Anima appears to take on a more action-oriented style. In one segment, players view an overhead shot of multiple Anima battling on the field, suggesting a shift from turn-based mechanics to a more real-time combat experience. This promises to add an exciting layer of strategy and engagement for players. Additionally, the game seems to offer a more extensive array of customization options, allowing players to personalize their experiences and enhance their gameplay.
As with many games developed by HoYoverse, Nexus Anima is expected to incorporate a gacha system. This mechanism will likely influence the variety of Anima players can collect, hinting at a free-to-play model for the game. The combination of creature collection, real-time combat, and customization options positions Nexus Anima as a fresh take on the genre.
To give players a chance to experience the game before its official release, HoYoverse has announced a beta test set to commence on August 29. This testing phase will be available on both PC and iOS platforms. However, it’s important to note that any progress made during the beta will be wiped, maintaining a clean slate for the official launch. Interested players will need to sign up for the beta, requiring a HoYoverse account to participate.
In summary, Honkai: Nexus Anima is shaping up to be an intriguing addition to the monster-collecting genre. With its vibrant art style, engaging narrative, and innovative gameplay features, it aims to carve out its own identity while appealing to fans of established franchises. Whether you’re a longtime fan of monster-collecting games or a newcomer eager to explore new adventures, Nexus Anima promises to deliver an entertaining experience filled with unique creatures and exciting gameplay.
