NetEase Games just dropped a jaw-dropping seven-minute gameplay trailer for Ananta, the free-to-play urban open-world RPG that’s blending GTA chaos with anime flair. This reveal at Tokyo Game Show 2025 has fans buzzing about its wild mix of action, exploration, and quirky minigames. But what makes this game stand out in a crowded field? Stick around to find out.
Gameplay That Borrows from the Best
Ananta pulls no punches in its gameplay design, taking clear cues from big hits like Grand Theft Auto and Spider-Man. Players dive into a vibrant city where they can switch between characters on the fly, much like GTA’s seamless camera pans. This lets you jump from one adventure to another without missing a beat.
The combat system shines with a mix of guns and rhythmic moves that echo Batman: Arkham Asylum’s flow. Imagine dancing through fights while dodging bullets, all in a colorful anime style. One standout feature is the web-slinging mechanic, straight out of Spider-Man’s playbook, allowing players to swing across skyscrapers for fast travel and epic chases.
Beyond that, the game packs in gadgets similar to those in Watch Dogs, letting you hack and tinker with the environment. Minigames add fun twists, including one inspired by Power Slap, where you engage in over-the-top slapping contests. It’s all about freedom in this urban sandbox.
NetEase and developer Naked Rain describe Ananta as a high-freedom RPG where you assemble a crew and tackle threats or just chill in the neon-lit nightlife. The trailer shows off bustling districts and hidden alleys, promising endless exploration.
Behind the Scenes at Tokyo Game Show 2025
The timing couldn’t be better, with Ananta making its playable debut at Tokyo Game Show 2025. This event, kicking off this week, gives attendees a hands-on look at the game’s mechanics. Early previews highlight how the title evolved from its original name, Project Mugen, into this ambitious project.
Developers shared that each character comes with unique stories and gameplay styles. For example, switching to a police officer changes your role entirely, from chasing crooks to managing city duties. This adds depth, making every playthrough feel fresh.
Fans have been waiting since the game’s initial announcement, and this trailer builds on that hype. It’s set for release on PC, PS5, iOS, and Android, aiming to reach a wide audience. No exact date yet, but the buzz suggests it’s gearing up for a big launch.
To break down some key elements from the trailer:
- Character Switching: Jump between heroes mid-action for diverse perspectives.
- Combat Variety: Blend shooting, melee, and rhythm-based attacks.
- Exploration Tools: Use swinging, driving, and hacking to navigate the city.
- Social Features: Team up with friends or NPCs for adventures.
This structure keeps things dynamic, ensuring players never get bored.
What Sets Ananta Apart in the RPG World
In a market full of open-world games, Ananta stands out by mixing slice-of-life moments with high-stakes action. You can hang out in cafes, customize outfits, or dive into intense battles against shadowy threats. It’s like living in a bustling metropolis where everyday life meets calamity.
The free-to-play model raises questions about monetization, likely through a gacha system for characters and items. But the press materials emphasize that core gameplay revolves around story and exploration, not paywalls. This could make Ananta a go-to for players seeking immersive worlds without breaking the bank.
Recent data from gaming analytics firm Sensor Tower shows that urban RPGs like this have seen a 25% rise in downloads over the past year, driven by titles blending action and social elements. Their report, released in August 2025, points to growing demand for games that let players escape into detailed cities.
That said, some skeptics wonder if the game’s ambitious scope is too good to be true. The trailer packs in so many ideas, from driving sports cars to engaging in quirky sports, that execution will be key.
Challenges and Future Outlook
Not everything is smooth sailing. As a free-to-play title, Ananta must balance fun with fair progression to avoid frustrating players. Past games in this genre have faced backlash over aggressive monetization, so NetEase will need to tread carefully.
The anime-inspired visuals are a big draw, with colorful characters and fluid animations powered by Unreal Engine. This tech ensures smooth performance across platforms, from mobile to consoles.
Looking ahead, the Tokyo Game Show demo could reveal more about multiplayer aspects, like co-op missions or shared worlds. Industry experts predict this could boost engagement, similar to how Genshin Impact built its community through events.
| Feature | Description | Inspiration |
|---|---|---|
| Character Switching | Seamless transitions between playable characters | GTA series |
| Web-Slinging | Swing through the city like a superhero | Spider-Man games |
| Rhythm Combat | Dance-like fights with timing elements | Batman: Arkham series |
| Minigames | Quirky activities like slapping contests | Power Slap and Saints Row |
| Exploration | Open-world city with hidden spots | Watch Dogs gadgets |
This table highlights how Ananta weaves together influences into something new.
Ananta’s reveal at Tokyo Game Show 2025 marks a thrilling step for urban RPG fans, blending familiar thrills with fresh anime energy that could redefine the genre. As the game swings toward release, it promises a world where adventure awaits around every corner, reminding us why we love diving into virtual cities. What do you think about Ananta’s wild mix of influences? Share your thoughts in the comments and spread the word on social media. It’s trending big on X with #Ananta and #TokyoGameShow2025, so join the conversation and tag your posts with those to keep the hype going!
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