Honkai Nexus Anima Beta Test: When was it and what was player reaction?
Honkai Nexus Anima is the newest creature‑collector entry in the Honkai franchise developed by HoYoverse, blending gacha mechanics with open‑world and auto‑battler gameplay. In this article, we cover when the beta (closed test) was held and how players reacted, from excitement to criticism.
When was the Honkai Nexus Anima Beta Test?
The beta test for Honkai: Nexus Anima is officially named the “Nexus Bond Test”, a small‑scale closed beta with full data wipe. Below is a timeline summarizing key dates:
| Phase | Date / Time (UTC+8 unless noted) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Beta registration opens | August 29, 2025, 12:00 | Players can apply via the official site to join the test |
| Registration closes | September 12, 2025, 23:59 | Last day to submit application for the closed beta |
| Access emails sent | September 15, 2025 (from 10:00 UTC+8) | Selected testers get email invites to participate |
| Beta test period | September 17–23, 2025 | The Nexus Bond Test runs (data wipe) |
Some sources also indicated that leaks had suggested the beta start on September 17 at 10:00 (UTC+8). The beta was only available for iOS and PC platforms (no Android in this round), and in multiple languages including English, Japanese, Chinese, and Korean.
The developer explicitly noted that all progress would be wiped after the test ends.
What was the player reaction?
Player reactions to the Nexus Bond Test were mixed, overall intrigue and excitement tempered with valid criticism. Below are key themes from the community.
Positive impressions & highlights
- Many praised the art style, creature designs, and aesthetic, describing the game as “cute,” relaxing, and emotionally warm rather than hyper‑competitive.
- The core concept of forging bonds with Anima (creatures) in exploration and combat resonated with fans who like collection games.
- Some testers noted the game’s slower pacing and “healing” atmosphere, positioning it as a more casual or companion‑style experience rather than intense.
- On the official side, HoYoverse responded to feedback, promising more customization for the main character, improved models, environment polish, and expanded quest content in future builds.
Criticisms & concerns
- On Reddit (r/gachagaming), some users expressed disappointment that the designs felt “bland and boring,” critiques of animation quality, and suspicion that the game may lean heavily on monetization. > “It just looks so bland and boring … animations are basic … a new way to squeeze more money out of the Honkai IP.”
- Limited customization was a frequent complaint – during this beta, character customization options were minimal, especially for a female avatar, which HoYoverse has since addressed.
- Some testers felt early build issues: rough textures, unfinished NPC/Anima models, lighting and rendering to be improved.
- Others observed the auto‑battler / auto‑chess mechanics might overlap with existing genres and questioned how fresh or compelling the strategic depth would be long-term.
Mixed or cautious takes
- Several expressed optimism with caution – loving the concept and presentation, but waiting to see improvements before committing strong judgments.
- Some streamers and players posted early impressions: praising the charm but noting bugs or limited content.
Final thoughts
The Honkai Nexus Anima closed beta (Nexus Bond Test) ran from September 17 to 23, 2025, with registration open from August 29 to September 12, and included PC and iOS platforms.
Overall, reaction skewed cautiously positive. Fans appreciated the artistic direction, creature concept, and relaxed pacing. But criticisms about limited customization, early build roughness, potential monetization practices, and strategic depth were loud enough to shape expectations. The feedback appears to be guiding the developers toward improvements before full release.
