Ananta just dropped a bombshell that’s sending shockwaves through the gaming community. NetEase’s upcoming anime-style open-world RPG has officially confirmed it won’t feature any character gacha mechanics – a decision that could fundamentally change how we think about free-to-play gaming.
This isn’t just another gaming announcement. It’s a complete departure from industry norms that has gamers questioning everything they thought they knew about modern RPGs.
What Makes Ananta Different
Originally known as Project Mugen, Ananta combines the urban exploration of Grand Theft Auto with the anime aesthetics of Genshin Impact and the web-swinging mechanics of Spider-Man. Set in Nova City, players take on the role of elite A.C.D. (Anti-Chaos Directorate) agents dealing with supernatural phenomena and chaotic urban adventures.
The game features a diverse cast of characters including Taffy, Bansy, Alan, Mechanika, Dila, Ringo, Aileen, and Lykaia. Each character offers unique traversal abilities and combat styles, with some featuring special mechanics like Taffy’s mallet that transforms into a rideable bike.
Revolutionary Monetization Model
In a recent interview with Famitsu, developer Naked Rain Games revealed that Ananta will completely skip character gacha systems. Instead, the game will focus exclusively on cosmetic monetization including outfits, vehicles, and player housing customization options.
This means every playable character will be unlockable for free simply by progressing through the story. No gambling mechanics, no pay-to-win elements, and no artificial barriers blocking access to core gameplay content.
The decision mirrors recent industry trends, with games like Duet Night Abyss also abandoning character gacha models just months before release. Developers are prioritizing long-term player enjoyment over aggressive monetization tactics.
| Traditional Gacha Games | Ananta’s Approach |
|---|---|
| Characters locked behind paywalls | All characters free through story progression |
| Gambling mechanics for core content | Cosmetic-only monetization |
| Pay-to-win potential | Gameplay equality for all players |
| FOMO-driven spending pressure | Optional cosmetic purchases only |
Gameplay Features and Mechanics
Ananta offers unprecedented freedom in its urban sandbox environment. Players can engage in everything from petting cats in parks to high-speed street racing, with every choice creating ripple effects throughout Nova City’s living ecosystem.
The combat system emphasizes creative improvisation, allowing players to weaponize urban environments and everyday objects. Whether disarming enemies or using city terrain strategically, battles feel fresh and unpredictable.
Character switching works similarly to GTA 5, with smooth camera transitions between different locations as players swap between their four-person team. Each character brings unique abilities that can synergize with teammates during major battles and boss encounters.
Release Information and Platforms
While NetEase hasn’t announced an official release date, industry experts predict Ananta will launch sometime in 2026. The game will be available across multiple platforms including PlayStation 5, PC (Windows/Mac), iOS, and Android devices.
Players can currently pre-register at the official website, with global pre-registrations already exceeding 11 million. The game will also be playable at Tokyo Game Show 2025 from September 25-28, offering hands-on story and exploration modes.
Industry Impact and Future Implications
Ananta’s anti-gacha stance represents a significant shift in free-to-play gaming philosophy. By removing gambling mechanics and ensuring equal access to core content, the developers are betting on player satisfaction over short-term revenue maximization.
This approach could influence other major studios to reconsider their monetization strategies, potentially leading to a healthier gaming ecosystem where cosmetic purchases remain truly optional rather than necessary for competitive play.
FAQs
Will Ananta have any gacha mechanics at all?
No, Ananta has completely eliminated all character gacha systems. The only monetized content will be cosmetic items like outfits, vehicles, and housing decorations.
How do you unlock characters in Ananta?
All playable characters can be unlocked for free by simply progressing through the main story campaign. No payments or gambling mechanics required.
What platforms will Ananta be available on?
Ananta will launch on PlayStation 5, PC (Windows and Mac), iOS, and Android devices, with additional platforms potentially announced later.
When is the Ananta release date?
While no official date has been confirmed, industry analysts expect Ananta to launch sometime in 2026 following beta testing phases.
Is Ananta really free to play?
Yes, Ananta will be completely free to download and play, with optional cosmetic purchases being the only monetization method.
What makes Ananta different from other anime games?
Ananta combines GTA-style open world exploration with anime aesthetics and Spider-Man-inspired traversal mechanics, all without any character gacha systems.
Can you play Ananta solo or do you need friends?
Ananta can be enjoyed as a single-player experience, though it features team-based mechanics where you control multiple characters during battles and story missions.
Conclusion
Ananta’s decision to abandon character gacha mechanics marks a pivotal moment in gaming history. By prioritizing player experience over aggressive monetization, NetEase is taking a calculated risk that could pay off tremendously if executed properly. With its unique blend of urban exploration, anime aesthetics, and ethical monetization practices, Ananta has the potential to become one of the most significant open-world RPGs of the generation. The gaming community will be watching closely to see if this bold approach succeeds in creating a more player-friendly industry standard.