HoYoverse Takes on Creature Collecting in Honkai: Nexus Anima

HoYoverse is stepping into the creature collecting genre with their latest project, Honkai: Nexus Anima. The game combines monster collection with strategic autobattler mechanics, creating something that feels familiar yet surprisingly different from other titles in the space. Players take on the role of a traveler building bonds with creatures called Anima to survive in a world shaped by shattered fundamental forces.

During a recent hands on session at Gamescom 2026, the unique visual style of the game stood out. The creatures range from adorable and chunky designs to downright bizarre ones, including food based monsters and unique animals like axolotls. While some designs may remind fans of other famous monster series, the sheer variety makes building a team feel exciting and fresh.

Exploring the town of Iia is a highlight, as the game emphasizes travel and social interaction. You can ride your Anima to explore and engage with a cast of eccentric NPCs. The dialogue system adds a humorous layer to the experience, where your choices in conversation determine whether you can start a Nexus Battle or if you get ignored by the local characters.

Despite the fun gameplay, the game does have a steep learning curve. The terminology used for its world and mechanics can feel overwhelming, especially for those new to the HoYoverse style of storytelling. The system for rankings and battle declarations is currently a bit confusing, suggesting that the game could benefit from some extra focus on clarity before its full launch.