Edited By
Sofia Wang
NetEase has confirmed that their upcoming anime-themed open-world game, ANANTA, will not feature a character gacha system. This decision comes as a relief to many, as gacha mechanics often lead to frustration and perceived pay-to-win situations.
Players are keenly divided on mobile F2P models. Many feel that interesting game concepts are wasted on freemium formats that prioritize monetization over gameplay. One user noted, "Can devs stop wasting interesting ideas on mobile F2P slop, please?"
Meanwhile, concerns remain regarding other potential gacha elements within the game. Gamers are wary after experiences with other titles that have implemented similar patterns, questioning if cosmetics or vehicles might still be gacha-based. Notably, discussions around NetEase's previous title, Once Human, found that its monetization strategy leaned heavily on cosmetics with limited in-game earning potential.
Positive Sentiment on Character Accessibility
Many users praised the news of free character access. "Might give it a shot then. The game looks really cool," one gamer shared, highlighting the trailers' appeal.
Concerns About Future Monetization
Speculation is prevalent regarding how the cosmetic system will function. One comment questioned, "Will it have a harsh equipment gacha or stick to pure cosmetics?"
Comparisons to Successful Models
Gamers draw parallels with titles like GTA V, observing that even without a gacha system, it's possible to monetize effectively through content sales.
"Even if there are zero gacha elements, they are going to monetize this as much as possible,โ expressed a wary player. Some wish for more transparency on costs and mechanics to avoid potential pitfalls that have plagued other games.
๐ฎ ANANTA will not have character gacha systems, enabling free access to all characters as players progress.
โ Concerns linger regarding whether other elements may follow gacha models, such as cosmetics or vehicles.
๐ฅ Gamers reference successful monetization from titles like GTA V, pushing for similar models that enhance gameplay without aggressive sales tactics.
The decision by NetEase to forgo a character gacha system in ANANTA could mark a significant shift in mobile game monetization. As the conversation unfolds, players remain hopeful yet cautious, eager to see how this new title will shape the genre's future.
As NetEase moves forward with ANANTA, thereโs a strong chance that player reactions will shape its future monetization strategies. Gamers will likely advocate for a system that supports gameplay without aggressive sales tactics. If player feedback remains positive about the no-gacha approach, NetEase may continue this path for future titles, estimating a 60% probability for ongoing flexibility in monetization styles. However, thereโs also a significant riskโaround 40%โthat pressure from competitive titles could lead to the inclusion of additional pay elements, particularly in cosmetic upgrades. This tug-of-war between providing fair access and pursuing profitable models is likely to define the gaming landscape in the months to come.
Looking back, one could draw an interesting comparison to the shift in the music industry during the rise of digital streaming. Just as platforms like Spotify eliminated the need for physical album purchases, allowing wider access to music, the move away from gacha systems may revolutionize game accessibility. This change signals a willingness to embrace player satisfaction over traditional revenue models, much like artists prioritizing audience reach over short-term profits. Both scenarios invite a fresh conversation about how industries can evolve without losing the essence of their craft, fostering a thriving community that benefits everyone involved.