Ananta, a new open-world gacha game developed by Naked Rain and published by NetEase, has sparked mixed reactions for its heavy borrowing of mechanics from other blockbuster titles.
Marketed as an “anime GTA 6,” it features a sprawling city, car hijacking, and cinematic chase sequences reminiscent of Rockstar’s Grand Theft Auto series. However, critics argue that Ananta’s reliance on familiar gameplay systems makes it feel creatively hollow.
The game also incorporates swinging and parkour mechanics almost identical to Insomniac’s Spider-Man, allowing players to traverse the skyline with fluid momentum.
While visually stunning, these similarities raise questions about originality, with many aspects of Ananta seemingly cobbled together from existing successful games.
Set in a fictional blend of Tokyo and Miami, the game features flashy character designs, vibrant animations, and a gacha system enticing players to collect attractive anime characters.
Yet, this formula, aimed at the mobile free-to-play crowd, risks prioritizing spectacle over substance.
Ananta looks polished and engaging, with its vibrant art style and dynamic gameplay. However, its lack of unique identity leaves it struggling to stand apart from its inspirations.
Despite these criticisms, fans remain curious to see if Ananta can overcome these shortcomings when it launches next year.
The game’s success will likely hinge on whether it can prove itself more than the sum of its borrowed parts, carving out a unique place in the gaming landscape rather than riding the coattails of its predecessors.
