If you love the mix of stunning anime visuals, epic storytelling, and the thrill of collecting rare characters, gacha games are an experience you shouldn’t miss. Over the past few years, anime-style gacha games have evolved far beyond simple character lotteries. They now offer massive open worlds, rich narratives, and console-quality gameplay all wrapped in vibrant, anime-inspired art.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best anime-like gacha games in 2025, including Genshin Impact, Wuthering Waves, Zenless Zone Zero, Honkai: Star Rail, Honkai Impact 3rd, Punishing: Gray Raven, and Tower of Fantasy. Whether you enjoy action-packed battles, immersive exploration, or turn-based strategy, there’s something here for you.
1. Genshin Impact – The Open-World Adventure Phenomenon
Platforms: PC, PS5/PS4, Android, iOS
Since its launch in 2020, Genshin Impact has redefined what a free-to-play gacha game can be. Developed by HoYoverse, it offers a vast, open-world experience in the beautiful land of Teyvat. Players can explore diverse regions, battle powerful enemies, and collect an ever-growing roster of characters, each with their own personality and elemental abilities.
Why it stands out:
Immersive, constantly expanding world
Deep elemental combat system
Frequent content updates with new characters and events
With its combination of exploration, action combat, and character collection, Genshin Impact remains a top choice for both casual and hardcore gamers.
2. Wuthering Waves – Fast-Paced Action Meets Deep Storytelling
Platforms: PC, Mobile (console versions planned)
Wuthering Waves is a more recent entry into the gacha market, but it’s already making waves with its fluid combat mechanics and post-apocalyptic fantasy setting. You play as the “Rover,” a mysterious figure who awakens in a world recovering from a cataclysm, gathering allies to face dangerous foes known as “Taciturns.”
Why it stands out:
Highly responsive combat with combos, dodges, and counters
Atmospheric soundtrack and breathtaking world design
Story-driven gameplay with meaningful character arcs
Wuthering Waves delivers console-level action in a free-to-play package, making it a must-try for anime RPG fans.
3. Zenless Zone Zero – Stylish Urban Fantasy Action
Platforms: PC, PS5, Mobile
From the same creators as Genshin Impact comes Zenless Zone Zero, a game with a completely different flavor. Instead of sprawling fields and mountains, ZZZ takes place in a neon-soaked metropolis overrun by interdimensional threats called Hollows.
You’ll assemble a squad of unique characters, each with distinct fighting styles, to clear dungeons and progress the story. The game blends roguelike elements with fast, flashy combat, giving it a unique place in the gacha space.
Why it stands out:
Modern-day urban setting with stylish anime flair
Team-based combat with combo-focused gameplay
Distinct personality and charm for each character
If you enjoy the aesthetics of modern anime mixed with supernatural elements, Zenless Zone Zero is a perfect fit.
4. Honkai: Star Rail – Turn-Based Anime Space Adventure
Platforms: PC, PS5, Mobile
Honkai: Star Rail takes HoYoverse’s signature anime artistry into turn-based RPG territory. Instead of real-time combat, you’ll plan strategic attacks with a team of characters, each with unique skills and elemental affinities.
Set aboard the Astral Express, this space fantasy adventure has you traveling to different planets, unraveling mysteries, and meeting a cast of memorable characters.
Why it stands out:
Strategic, turn-based battles with cinematic flair
Fully voice-acted story scenes
Regular events and new character banners
For players who prefer strategy over button-mashing, Honkai: Star Rail delivers deep gameplay wrapped in a high-quality anime presentation.
5. Honkai Impact 3rd – Action-Packed Hack-and-Slash
Platforms: PC, Mobile
Before Genshin and Star Rail, HoYoverse built its reputation on Honkai Impact 3rd. This action game offers fast-paced, combo-driven combat and some of the most cinematic boss fights in mobile gaming.
The story spans multiple arcs and blends sci-fi, fantasy, and emotional drama into a single universe. It also regularly features crossover events with other anime and games.
Why it stands out:
Highly polished hack-and-slash gameplay
Diverse roster of Valkyrie characters
Engaging story with emotional stakes
If you’re into skill-based action combat with a deep narrative, Honkai Impact 3rd is still worth your time in 2025.
6. Punishing: Gray Raven – Cyberpunk Anime Action
Platforms: Mobile
Punishing: Gray Raven offers a darker, cyberpunk-inspired take on the gacha formula. You lead a squad of Constructs enhanced warriors in humanity’s fight against a robotic virus.
Combat is lightning-fast, requiring precise dodges and skill timing. The game’s visual design leans heavily on futuristic anime aesthetics, paired with an atmospheric soundtrack.
Why it stands out:
Smooth, skill-based action gameplay
Stylish cyberpunk environments
Emotional, character-focused storytelling
For fans of anime with a techno-noir vibe, Punishing: Gray Raven is a must-play.
7. Tower of Fantasy – Multiplayer Open World
Platforms: PC, PS5/PS4, Mobile
Often called a sci-fi sibling to Genshin Impact, Tower of Fantasy blends open-world exploration with MMO-style multiplayer. You can roam freely, fight massive world bosses, and complete story missions all while teaming up with other players.
The game features a futuristic setting and a variety of weapons you can swap between in real-time, making combat dynamic and versatile.
Why it stands out:
Co-op play and shared open world
Weapon-switching combat system
Frequent events and crossover collaborations
Tower of Fantasy offers a more social experience for players who like to explore with friends. Since We came this far, why not level up your experience with the top best headphones from ArmorSound? They deliver rich, immersive soundscapes that make every character’s voice and battle effect come alive.
Final Thoughts – The Future of Anime Gacha Games
Anime-style gacha games in 2025 are bigger, better, and more varied than ever. Whether you want to wander the magical lands of Teyvat, explore cyberpunk cities, or embark on a spacefaring adventure, there’s a gacha game that fits your style.
These games are no longer just about pulling rare characters they’re about living in anime worlds, connecting with vibrant casts, and enjoying high-quality gameplay without an upfront cost.
If you’re looking for your next gaming obsession, any of the titles above will deliver countless hours of fun and stunning anime experiences.