Gacha games have historically been associated with varying degrees of freemium monetization on mobile platforms. However, recent years have unveiled exciting avenues for developers to transition these games to the PC, enhancing the complexity and depth of gameplay that can be enjoyed both at a desk and on the go.
Genshin Impact
Released in 2020 by Hoyoverse, Genshin Impact is often credited with igniting the gacha phenomenon on PC. The game features a stunning open world that continues to expand, with the latest update introducing the Natlan region. Players are drawn into a vibrant universe filled with a diverse cast of characters, making it nearly impossible to resist forming attachments to various waifus and husbandos. The combat system is particularly noteworthy, as each character possesses unique elemental affinities that can interact with others, resulting in spectacular damage combinations.
While Genshin Impact offers plenty of exploration and platforming puzzles, it is best approached as a casual adventure rather than a traditional gacha experience. The daily tasks and material farming can be demanding, a reflection of the gacha model’s influence on open-world gameplay.
Wuthering Waves
Set to release in 2024, Kuro Games’ Wuthering Waves has emerged as a strong contender in the gacha landscape, effectively capturing the essence of Genshin Impact while introducing its own flair. The combat system is exceptionally engaging, featuring beautifully animated dodging and parrying that evoke the feel of an anime battle. Players can even capture certain enemies to utilize their abilities, adding a strategic layer to gameplay. The parkour movement mechanics are crisp and enjoyable, enhancing the overall experience.
However, the narrative may leave something to be desired, often veering into convoluted territory. For those primarily interested in dynamic combat, Wuthering Waves stands out as a compelling choice.
Honkai: Star Rail
Released in 2023, Honkai: Star Rail, also from Hoyoverse, offers a delightful alternative for those who find Genshin’s expansive world and daily demands overwhelming. This sci-fi space comedy features charming character designs and engaging turn-based combat reminiscent of top-tier JRPGs. An auto-battle option streamlines daily missions, while the absence of time-locked materials allows for flexible character development.
Honkai: Star Rail has quickly become a favorite among gacha enthusiasts, offering a refreshing blend of humor and strategy.
Reverse: 1999
Bluepoch Games’ Reverse: 1999, released in 2023, presents a captivating painterly art style that distinguishes it from its contemporaries. Set in the 20th century, this strategic RPG incorporates time travel and a rich narrative, though the English translations may occasionally falter. The game begins in media res, providing a unique storytelling approach, while historical references add depth to the experience.
Notably, Reverse: 1999 allows players to pull for a literal dog named Pickles, offering a whimsical touch that sets it apart from typical gacha offerings. Available on Steam, it provides a convenient option for players who prefer a consolidated gaming library.
Nikke: Goddess of Victory
Released in 2023 by Shift Up, Nikke: Goddess of Victory is not for the faint of heart, as it heavily leans into fanservice. However, beneath its provocative exterior lies a gripping narrative that echoes the emotional weight of titles like Nier: Automata. The game excels as a rail shooter on PC, offering a more immersive experience compared to its mobile counterpart.
Nikke stands out for its generous approach to player rewards, frequently providing gems and recruitment tickets. Daily tasks are relatively easy to complete, although the game does feature a few loading screens that can disrupt the flow.
Honkai Impact 3rd
Another entry from Hoyoverse, Honkai Impact 3rd debuted on PC in 2019 and has maintained its popularity through regular updates. This title offers a hack-and-slash combat style that diverges from the turn-based mechanics of its siblings. Despite being one of the developer’s earlier releases, it remains relevant, having received a substantial expansion in 2024 that introduced new characters and an updated user interface.
While it is available on Steam, players may want to consider using the Hoyoplay launcher for a more seamless experience across devices.
Upcoming gacha games to be excited about
Infinity Nikki
Set for release on December 5, 2024, Infinity Nikki promises to breathe new life into the long-standing Nikki series. Infold Games is transitioning the franchise into an open-world format, allowing players to explore and engage in fashion battles alongside Nikki and her cat companion, Momo. The closed beta showcased stunning visuals and meticulously designed outfits, each with unique abilities.
The gacha mechanics will focus on outfit banners, allowing for extensive customization while retaining the charm of the original series.
Arknights: Endfield
Scheduled for mid-2025, Arknights: Endfield is an ambitious spin-off of the original Arknights tower defense game. This upcoming title will feature an open-world RPG format with base-building elements, promising a fresh take on the franchise. Early playtests indicate that while combat may need refinement, the base-building mechanics have received positive feedback.
With ample time for development, Hypergryph has the opportunity to polish the game further before its anticipated release.
