The gacha scene in 2026 has already delivered major titles like Arknights: Endfield and Neverness to Everness. Several high-profile projects remain on the horizon for the rest of the year or later windows that could still fall in 2026. These stand out for ambitious open-world designs, strong studio pedigrees, creature collection twists, or distinctive settings that differentiate them from the usual anime action formula. Release dates stay fluid for most, with betas and pre-registration ongoing, so treat timelines as estimates based on current developer signals.
Here are five of the most anticipated ones worth watching and pre-registering for.
1. Ananta (formerly Project Mugen)
NetEase’s Naked Rain studio is building a sprawling urban open-world action RPG set in the paranormal-filled Nova City. Players take the role of an Anti-Chaos Directorate agent with high freedom for parkour, vehicle use, stylish combat, and city life simulation. Trailers emphasize living systems and next-gen visuals powered by Unreal Engine. Notably, characters unlock through story and progression rather than traditional character banners; monetization focuses more on cosmetics and customizable elements. No firm release date exists, though NetEase has referenced a 2026 target and recent technical tests have occurred. Platforms include PC, mobile, and potential consoles. Its scale and sandbox ambitions make it one of the most hyped urban titles still waiting to launch.
2. Honkai: Nexus Anima
HoYoverse’s latest Honkai entry shifts into creature-collecting adventure strategy. Players bond with Anima (creatures tied to paired concepts like light and dark) through exploration and auto-battler-style team combat in an interactive open world that includes photo modes and character creation. Gacha applies to recruiting Anima with familiar banners and pity. The Evolution Test closed beta ran in July 2026 on PC, iOS, and Android, with further demos appearing at events like gamescom. Global launch points toward mid-to-late 2026 or early 2027. Pre-registration remains open. HoYoverse’s production quality and endgame design experience position this as a major potential hit for collectors.
3. Azur Promilia
From Manjuu (the studio behind the long-running Azur Lane), this is a vibrant fantasy open-world RPG centered on raising and bonding with over 180 Kibo companions. Expect lush exploration, monster-taming loops, construction, farming, and fluid action combat in a living ecosystem with strong character designs. Closed betas have run in regions including Korea and China, with a Journey Test recruitment ongoing into late August 2026. App Store listings show a placeholder of December 31, 2026 for certain Asian markets (China, Japan, Korea via partners like Nexon), while global and PC/Steam/PS5 timing remains unconfirmed but targeted later. Pre-registration is active. Its cozy yet polished creature focus and player-friendly studio reputation make it a standout comfort pick.
4. Silver Palace
Elementa / Silver Studio’s Victorian steampunk open-world detective fantasy stands out for its gaslit industrial metropolis of Silvernia. Players investigate supernatural mysteries, use deduction systems, and engage in real-time combat with partner characters and elemental abilities. Unreal Engine 5 delivers striking visuals of golden-hour streets and atmospheric decay. The Dichotomy closed beta ran through mid-August 2026 on PC (with expanded map, male protagonist option, new characters, and over 40 hours of content in the test). Gacha involves character and “Motive” (weapon-like) banners with reported pity systems. No official global release date has been set, though pre-registration exceeds millions and further event appearances are planned. Its unique mood and investigation gameplay offer a refreshing alternative to neon cities or pure elemental anime worlds.
5. Chasing Kaleidorider
This stylish action-strategy title from Fizzglee Studio blends motorcycle combat, romance routes, and semi-turn-based battles in a futuristic urban setting. Players lead a squad of super-powered “Kaleido RIDER” girls fighting anomalies born from negative emotions, with bike customization, high-octane traversal, and branching story paths. It has held demos and betas (including global recruitment windows), with community buzz highlighting its energetic aesthetic and character focus. Exact global release timing is still unannounced but sits in the 2026 pipeline alongside other late-year tests and launches. Platforms target mobile and PC. It rounds out the list as a more specialized, high-energy option for players seeking speed and personality-driven narrative.