HoYoverse continues to expand its portfolio with the recent announcement of Varsapura, a title that follows closely on the heels of their other projects, including Petite Planet and the Honkai spin-off, Nexus Anima. This new venture appears to blend familiar elements of HoYoverse’s signature style with a narrative that hints at a darker, more surreal experience. Players will find themselves entangled in a storyline that revolves around a paranormal government agency, grappling with the unsettling effects of a black, goopy substance that threatens mental health.
Character Design and Realism
While the game showcases an intriguing premise, there are concerns regarding the character models. The current designs have drawn criticism for their plasticky appearance, which seems at odds with the game’s attempt to embrace a more realistic aesthetic. The open world, inspired by Singapore, features recognizable buildings and street names, yet the character designs—such as a brown-haired protagonist with oversized, twinkling eyes—detract from this realism.
Despite these visual misgivings, Varsapura offers a wealth of engaging gameplay mechanics. The combat system bears similarities to Zenless Zone Zero, allowing players to swap characters and combine their abilities for dynamic attacks. The protagonist’s unique weapon—a whimsical umbrella—adds a layer of creativity, while her ultimate ability, reminiscent of Persona 3, brings a dramatic flair to the battlefield. Meanwhile, the secondary character, Sayuki, wields stacks of paperwork as her weapon, delivering a humorous twist to combat scenarios.
Gameplay Elements
The gameplay also incorporates stealth elements, enabling players to temporarily stun enemies, adding depth to the combat experience. As players navigate the open world, they will encounter various challenges, including a comically small police vehicle that serves as a mode of transport to crime scenes. This vehicle provides a lighthearted touch amidst the more serious undertones of the narrative.
While skepticism is a natural response to new gacha titles, Varsapura presents a compelling mix of creativity and innovation. The combination of light horror elements, quirky character abilities, and a richly designed world suggests that there is much to explore and enjoy, even if some aspects, like character models, may need refinement. For those who appreciate HoYoverse’s unique approach to gaming, Varsapura is shaping up to be an intriguing addition to their growing lineup.
