miHoYo's next title, following the success of Genshin Impact, Honkai: Star Rail, and Zenless Zone Zero, is generating significant buzz, though perhaps not in the way many anticipated. Initial speculation ranged from an Animal Crossing-esque survival game (later seemingly confirmed by leaks) to a grand-scale RPG in the vein of Baldur's Gate 3.
However, recent rumors and job postings suggest a different direction entirely: a new entry within the Honkai universe. This open-world game, set in a coastal entertainment town, will center around collecting and developing spirits from various dimensions. Think Pokémon, but with a twist. The spirit development system will include evolution and team-building for battles, with spirits even providing transportation options like flying and surfing.
Interestingly, the game is categorized as an auto-battler or auto-chess title. This unique fusion of Pokémon-style creature collection, Baldur's Gate 3-esque RPG elements, and the established Honkai lore presents an intriguing, if unexpected, evolution of miHoYo's game design. The timeline for development remains uncertain, but the project promises a fresh perspective on familiar mechanics while significantly expanding the Honkai universe.
