Nodusfall has been Gamescom's biggest surprise: a new co-op action romp from the masters of gacha, HoYoverse, which seemingly does away with so much of what we all associate with the developer.

HoYoverse's games are normally vibrant anime affairs full of waifus and himbos waiting to be collected by thirsty players. Even as the genres and systems change from game to game, the studio has a distinct style and design philosophy—one that's been incredibly successful.

Instead of resting on its laurels, however, HoYoverse is taking a big swing with Nodusfall. One of the most fundamental changes is that characters are not obtained through random draws. This is not your typical gacha game. Indeed, HoYoverse hasn't confirmed any gacha mechanics yet—though we do know that cosmetic monetisation is being considered.

When it was first unveiled during Gamescom's Opening Night Live, the immediate comparisons being bandied around were Elden Ring and Monster Hunter, both of which are fair comparisons but which don't really tell the whole story. That they are inspirations seems undeniable, but Nodusfall is absolutely doing its own thing here.

First of all: Nodusfall is not remotely a soulslike. What it has in common with Elden Ring, then, is largely aesthetic and vibes. As HoYoverse describes it, the world of Nodusfall is one where "divine authority has crumbled and order has collapsed". It's simultaneously bleak and beautiful.

Monster Hunter is a closer relative. Solo adventurers and groups can select contracts, and then go out into the world to hunt down big beasties.

Source link