Your new Pokémon replacement will be free on July 9

Pokémon has become quite absorbing within the creature-collection RPG genre, largely because it has no competition within the AAA space. Sure, many independent developers and even AA have tried to dethrone Pokémonand some have even come close, but none have truly succeeded in overthrowing him. Even after countless controversies and divisive entries, Pokémon It remains one of the most profitable video game series of all time and a huge hit with fans.

However, the series has become a bit stale, the length between entries can be arduous for some, and the lack of significant improvements has proven divisive. Fortunately, among the many games like PokémonA new contender emerges that promises to truly dethrone the legendary series and take its place as the pinnacle of the creature-collecting RPG genre. While its long-term success remains to be seen, it still appears to be the perfect replacement for Pokémon.

Honkai: Anima Nexusthe third entry in the Honkai The game series and latest title from developer HoYoverse, is an upcoming creature-collecting RPG set in a vibrant open world. Like his predecessors, Anima Nexus is a gacha game that is based on the rich lore and world building of the Honkai series to offer a familiar experience for fans and ideal for newcomers looking for their next Pokémon-Esque game to fully immerse yourself in. While it seems derivative to call this Genshin Impact meets PokémonIt is largely the experience. Anima Nexus seems to be pointing.

In Honkai: Anima NexusYou explore a huge open world with sprawling neon-lit cities, picturesque beaches, and dense forests as you fight and capture the titular Anima. Of course, there are important points of differentiation between Pokémon and Anima Nexusspecifically in the current narrative driven by live service and Genshin Impact-esque visuals, but this is nonetheless shaping up to be a suitable replacement for Pokémon for those who need something new.

A character riding an aquatic Anima in Honkai: Nexus Anima.

The best part is that on July 9, 2026, Honkai: Anima Nexus It will be completely free for those who managed to enter the closed beta. Titled “Evolution test“, this closed beta will allow players to access everything the game currently has to offer, see new story beats, meet new characters, catch new Anima, and much more. Naturally, there will be a data wipe at the end, so players are encouraged to make the most of it without worrying about progression carryover. This is solely for HoYoverse to get feedback on the systems available.

To gain access to the closed beta, fans can register through the official site. Honkai: Anima Nexus website. This does not guarantee that no one will have access to the closed beta, but it does give one the opportunity to enter. Additionally, HoYoverse has yet to announce an end date for the closed beta or an official release date for the full game. Still, for those who have played the darker Pokémon games and I beat all the independent alternatives, Honkai: Anima Nexus It may be the final option, and this closed beta is a great way to test if it’s a worthwhile investment.