Honkai: Star Rail concert reveals new HoYoverse game with Pokémon vibes

Rumors of a new Honkai game began after trademark filings and related social media activity. A Honkai: Star Rail concert livestream has given the best glimpse yet at the project. At the end of the event, viewers see a clip with Kiana entering a new plane. The creatures in the video suggest a radically different experience from the previous action or turn-based RPGs. Reportedly called Honkai: Nexus Anima, the title could take inspiration from Pokémon games.

During the concert teaser, fans of HoYoverse games also encounter Blade. Kiana and the swordsman appear ready to face off, but it's the two monsters who leap at each other. Other Honkai: Star Rail characters may lurk in the shadows as the battle commences.

Before the recent reveal, HoYoverse claimed a trademark for Honkai: Nexus Anima in South Korea. While the document disappeared, gamers also noticed X accounts and Facebook pages referring to the title. Some artwork released by developers also hinted that Nexus Anima will take inspiration from Pokémon games.

Anytime a game with battling creatures appears, there are fears about Nintendo lawsuits. The gaming giant has accused Palworld developer Pocketpair of patent infringements. Still, other games with similar concepts, like TemTem, have avoided legal trouble. A miHoYo job posting may have suggested how the developers could put a spin on the gameplay loop. Honkai: Nexus Anima would rely on auto-chess mechanics. Players assemble teams of monsters that confront each other on a grid.

The end of the concert video asks players to stay tuned for more information about the new Honkai game. Given the regular leaks, followers of HoYoverse games will likely learn more before hearing official news.