HoYoverse has officially unveiled Honkai: Nexus Anima, the newest entry in the Honkai series, bringing players into a creature-collecting adventure that blends strategic battles with immersive storytelling. First teased during the Honkai: Star Rail anniversary concert in May 2025, the game marks a bold expansion of the franchise with a fresh focus on forging bonds with mystical companions known as Anima.
A closed beta, titled the Nexus Bond Test, is now accepting registrations until September 12. Players can sign up for a chance to join the test on PC and iOS through the official website.
An Adventure Forged in Bonds
In Honkai: Nexus Anima, the world is governed by unseen links called Nexus, which represent paired concepts like Love and Hate, Light and Dark, or Life and Death. When these bonds are suddenly ruptured, their powers scatter into the world as Anima, living companions that embody these fractured forces.
Players step into the role of a plane-hopping traveler who escapes captivity and sets out on a journey across tranquil towns and uncharted realms. Along the way, they encounter Anima with distinct personalities and abilities, forming emotional bonds that carry through both exploration and combat.
Strategic Battles and Exploration
The game’s Nexus Battles allow players to team up with their Anima in fast-paced, tactical encounters. Each Anima offers unique abilities tied to its conceptual origins, and players can combine powers to create diverse combat strategies. Outside of battles, Anima also shapes how players interact with the overworld, reinforcing the theme of companionship as both a narrative and gameplay pillar.
Closed Beta Details
The Nexus Bond Test will serve as the game’s first closed beta. It will be available on PC and iOS, with progress reset after testing concludes. A limited number of players who register and complete the tester questionnaire will be selected to participate. Future announcements will reveal more about the testing schedule and scope.
Continuing Honkai’s Legacy
As the latest major entry in the Honkai franchise, Nexus Anima carries forward HoYoverse’s signature artistic style, deep storytelling, and innovative gameplay, while charting new territory for the series. With its focus on bonds, both in gameplay and narrative, it promises a heartfelt and adventurous step forward.
