Gacha-style games have been huge for over a decade now, originating in Japan but now being a global phenomenon. If you want to know the best current and upcoming gacha games in 2024, read my guide below.
What are the best current and upcoming gacha games in 2024?
Arknights
If you’re looking to dive into a staple of thetower defensegacha genre then look no further than Arknights. Thestoryline is greatand you’ll soonfall in love with itscast of characters, while the gameplay is smooth and challenging. The gamecan get grindybut its continued popularity four years after release are testament to what it offers. Also look out for thehighly anticipated Arknights Endfield in 2024, which is set to be an open-world RPG from the same developer Hypergryph but set in a new world.
Azur Lane
If you’re looking for something a little different in terms of style but don’t mind a cuteness overload, set sail for Azur Lane. The game is aside-scrolling shooterin an alternate WW2 setting, the alternate part being that thenaval shipsyou command aresuper cute anime characters. Don’t ask me how but it works! The quirkiness extends to include character customization and a dorm you can make your own. Despite being around since 2017 Azur Lane is still getting regular updates, keeping it more than relevant in the 2024 gacha game market.
Fire Emblem Heroes
Nintendo’s Fire Emblem Heroes was released in 2017, became the publisher’s highest-grossing mobile game in 2020, and is still going strong in 2024. It’s a mobile spin-off of thepopular Fire Emblem seriesfeaturing the same characters in agacha-style tactical RPG. Controlling up to four heroes you’ll be taking part in turn-based battles that incorporateclassic gacha mechanismssuch as advantageous unit color match-ups alongside moretraditional turn-based elementsincluding varied ranges and move distances.
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Genshin Impact
No best gacha game list would be complete without the wildly successful Genshin Impact. This is aAAA titlein every aspect, from itsgorgeous visuals and musicto therich and deep story and content. While the game has been a huge success it can be a real grind if you’re determined to stick to F2P. However, those investing in the game with time, money, or both will discoverone of the best and most ambitious games to date on mobilein any genre.
Girls Frontline 2: Exilium
With visuals inspired by ARPG Code Vein and a2D combat systemakin toXCOM lite, Girls Frontline 2: Exilium has been catching a lot of hype in gacha circles. Set in Eastern Europe a decade after its predecessor Girls Frontline, it will feature many of the original game’s cast of characters. The game wasreleased in Japan and Korea in December 2023so it shouldn’t be long before we get our hands on it in the West.
Guardian Tales
For those looking for a change of pace into thecosier end of the gacha scale, check out Guardian Tales. Thistop-down ARPGsees you battling creatures with your mind as much as your sword, luring enemies to where you want to fight inside a host of dungeons. But there arepuzzle elements to enjoy too, plus agreat storyline, creating a lovely little game you may immerse yourself in. Those wanting a less cozy game shouldn’t be put off, as there’s also a highlycompetitive PVPmode to dig into.
Honkai Star Rail
Sci-fi spectacularHonkai Star Rail was developer HoYoverse’s 2023 follow-up to the hugely popular Genshin Impact. While some feared it would be GI in space the game is very much its own beast, being anRPG with turn-based combat. Players put together a team of four characters with various elemental damage types and roles, and each character has a unique ability. Add equipable relics and you have adeep gacha gamewith loads of replay value.
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Punishing: Gray Raven
Thefluid ARPG actionof Punishing: Gray Raven can be a blessing and a curse. The game undoubtedly hassome of the best mobile action gameplayin the genre, but it is also supremely challenging. Those investing their time in the game will find adark, broodinggame that plays at a frenetic pace but is rewarding to those who can persevere. Like a challenge? Then look no further than thissquad-based hack-and-slash hit.
Wuthering Waves
The huge success and ongoing popularity of Punishing Grey Raven have seen developer Kuro Games’ follow-up, Wuthering Waves, getting a lot of hype from gacha fans in 2024. Promisingopen-world exploration, lots offreedom in terms of combat options, and arich narrative experience, this is as close to a surefire hit as they come. Its second closed beta ended in March 2024 andpreregistration is open, so the wait is nearly over.
Zenless Zone Zero
HoYoverseseems to be the dev that can do no wrong right now, so the hype around its next release Zenless Zone Zero is real. The game will be an urban fantasy ARPG with rogue-like mechanics, set in a new post-apocalyptic futuristic setting. There’s no official release date as yet but all indications point towards a2024 release, withsignups for preregistrationalready open and there have been a string of closed beta tests.
For more best game recommendations here at Pro Game Guides, check outBest Games with Multiple Endingsand20 Best Games like Phasmophobia!
