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Nodusfall isn’t Elden Ring, Monster Hunter or a typical HoYoverse game—it’s something very different
HoYoverse has presented Nodusfall as a free-to-play, long-term action game that departs from the publisher’s usual gacha formula. Although its dark visuals and giant-monster battles evoke Elden Ring and Monster Hunter, PC Gamer’s early hands-on suggests its faster, more forgiving combat gives it a distinct identity; its approach to monetisation could be especially significant for players wary of randomised character unlocks.
Developers say characters will not be obtained through random draws, and that players should unlock the core experience through continued play, while cosmetic purchases are being considered. The preview featured four playable characters, customisable outfits, hairstyles and accessories, and several boss encounters; one character can transform into a large dual-wielding warrior. Nodusfall was revealed at Gamescom, but no release date has been announced.
In short
- Nodusfall avoids random character draws despite being free-to-play.
- Its combat mixes fast action with large cooperative boss hunts.
- HoYoverse may focus monetisation on cosmetic items.
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The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
A move away from random character draws could make Nodusfall more appealing to players who want access to its core roster through play rather than chance or repeated spending. Its faster, more forgiving combat and customisable characters may also help it stand apart while retaining the spectacle of monster battles.
The case against
The game is still described as free-to-play and long-term, so players may reasonably question how it will be funded and whether cosmetics or other purchases could affect the experience. With no release date and only an early hands-on preview available, its combat, progression and monetisation remain uncertain, making comparisons with established games premature.
Explained simply
HoYoverse is a game publisher known for free-to-play titles in which players can use random draws to obtain characters. Nodusfall is a new action game from the company, set in a dark world where players fight large monsters.
The game has drawn comparisons with Elden Ring and Monster Hunter because of its appearance and battles, though early play suggests its combat works differently. Developers say characters will not be unlocked through random draws, and that players can access the main experience by continuing to play.
That approach may matter to players who prefer not to spend money for a chance at new characters. HoYoverse is considering paid cosmetic items, and has not announced when the game will be released.