HoYoverse, the developer behind Genshin Impact, has revealed Nodusfall, a new co-op action game set in a dark fantasy world. While the game shares visual and gameplay similarities with titles like Elden Ring and Monster Hunter, HoYoverse appears to be introducing its own unique mechanics and innovations.
Release Date and Betas
Nodusfall does not yet have a confirmed release date or even a release year. This is typical for HoYoverse, which usually announces release dates closer to the final beta testing phases. Based on the developer's usual pattern of three open betas before launch, Nodusfall is tentatively projected for a 2028 release. This timeline also accounts for HoYoverse's other upcoming titles, Petit Planet, slated for release this winter, and Honkai: Nexus Anima, expected in 2027. The game's deviation from HoYoverse's typical character-collector format might influence its beta testing schedule.
Players can pre-register on the official Nodusfall website, which also offers a questionnaire for potential beta selection for future testing phases. There is no current ongoing beta.
Story and Setting
Nodusfall is set on a dark fantasy "mythic continent" populated by corrupted creatures inspired by Eastern and Western mythology, including manticore, dragons, and giant bears. Players assume the role of a "Weaver," a divinely enlightened being tasked with restoring order to the continent, which has been corrupted by entities known as the "Dreadnodi." The narrative involves defeating monstrous beasts to acquire new gear and save the world. Players will traverse diverse regions drawing inspiration from various real-world cultures and mythologies, with additional regions planned for post-release content. The reveal trailer showcased landscapes such as golden hills, fiery skies, dreary moors, misty forests, dusty deserts, and vast canyons, suggesting a variety of environments.
Gameplay Mechanics
Nodusfall is a free-to-play co-op action game where players team up with up to three others to battle mythical creatures. The gameplay loop involves selecting a character, customizing a loadout, and working together to defeat challenging bosses and gather resources for unlocking new skills and forging weapons. The combat shares similarities with the Monster Hunter series, but introduces distinct elements:
- Powerful "Divine Skills": These skills are acquired from defeated bosses and may allow for mid-combat transformations, as hinted at in the reveal trailer.
- Finishing Blow Cinematics: Special animations trigger when an enemy's weakness is exposed, applicable in both solo and co-op encounters.
- Emphasis on Squad Variety: Success against difficult bosses may rely on diverse team compositions, potentially including an MMOPvP mode where players can control or fight against a player controlling a boss.
The game's official site suggests players can "switch roles and loadouts at will," implying flexibility in character progression and build customization.
Early impressions suggest Nodusfall blends elements of Elden Ring, MMOs, and Monster Hunter. While it may appear to borrow from multiple titles, HoYoverse has a track record of innovating on familiar concepts to create engaging gameplay loops.
Gacha and Monetization
Nodusfall will not feature character gacha mechanics, meaning all characters will be obtainable through gameplay progression. HoYoverse has stated that cosmetic monetization will be a primary focus for the game. While the presence of gacha for other elements remains unconfirmed, the developer is exploring avenues for monetization that may include exclusive cosmetics or special gear. The possibility of Nodusfall being entirely free of gacha systems remains a point of speculation.