Best Current and Upcoming Gacha Games 2024

Gacha-style games have been huge for over a decade now, originating in Japan but now being a global phenomenon. If you want to know the best current and upcoming gacha games in 2024, read my guide below.

What are the best current and upcoming gacha games in 2024?

Arknights

If you’re looking to dive into a staple of the tower defense gacha genre then look no further than Arknights. The storyline is great and you’ll soon fall in love with its cast of characters, while the gameplay is smooth and challenging. The game can get grindy but its continued popularity four years after release are testament to what it offers. Also look out for the highly anticipated Arknights Endfield in 2024, which is set to be an open-world RPG from the same developer Hypergryph but set in a new world.

Azur Lane

If you’re looking for something a little different in terms of style but don’t mind a cuteness overload, set sail for Azur Lane. The game is a side-scrolling shooter in an alternate WW2 setting, the alternate part being that the naval ships you command are super cute anime characters. Don’t ask me how but it works! The quirkiness extends to include character customization and a dorm you can make your own. Despite being around since 2017 Azur Lane is still getting regular updates, keeping it more than relevant in the 2024 gacha game market. 

Fire Emblem Heroes

Nintendo’s Fire Emblem Heroes was released in 2017, became the publisher’s highest-grossing mobile game in 2020, and is still going strong in 2024. It’s a mobile spin-off of the popular Fire Emblem series featuring the same characters in a gacha-style tactical RPG. Controlling up to four heroes you’ll be taking part in turn-based battles that incorporate classic gacha mechanisms such as advantageous unit color match-ups alongside more traditional turn-based elements including varied ranges and move distances. 

Related: Is Blue Protocol a Gacha Game?

Genshin Impact

No best gacha game list would be complete without the wildly successful Genshin Impact. This is a AAA title in every aspect, from its gorgeous visuals and music to the rich and deep story and content. While the game has been a huge success it can be a real grind if you’re determined to stick to F2P. However, those investing in the game with time, money, or both will discover one of the best and most ambitious games to date on mobile in any genre. 

Girls Frontline 2: Exilium

With visuals inspired by ARPG Code Vein and a 2D combat system akin to XCOM lite, Girls Frontline 2: Exilium has been catching a lot of hype in gacha circles. Set in Eastern Europe a decade after its predecessor Girls Frontline, it will feature many of the original game’s cast of characters. The game was released in Japan and Korea in December 2023 so it shouldn’t be long before we get our hands on it in the West. 

Guardian Tales

For those looking for a change of pace into the cosier end of the gacha scale, check out Guardian Tales. This top-down ARPG sees you battling creatures with your mind as much as your sword, luring enemies to where you want to fight inside a host of dungeons. But there are puzzle elements to enjoy too, plus a great storyline, creating a lovely little game you can immerse yourself in. Those wanting a less cozy game shouldn’t be put off, as there’s also a highly competitive PVP mode to dig into. 

Honkai Star Rail

Sci-fi spectacular Honkai Star Rail was developer HoYoverse’s 2023 follow-up to the hugely popular Genshin Impact. While some feared it would be GI in space the game is very much its own beast, being an RPG with turn-based combat. Players put together a team of four characters with various elemental damage types and roles, and each character has a unique ability. Add equipable relics and you have a deep gacha game with loads of replay value. 

Related: Honkai Star Rail (HSR) Codes

Punishing: Gray Raven

The fluid ARPG action of Punishing: Gray Raven can be a blessing and a curse. The game undoubtedly has some of the best mobile action gameplay in the genre, but it is also supremely challenging. Those investing their time in the game will find a dark, brooding game that plays at a frenetic pace but is rewarding to those who can persevere. Like a challenge? Then look no further than this squad-based hack-and-slash hit. 

Wuthering Waves

The huge success and ongoing popularity of Punishing Grey Raven have seen developer Kuro Games’ follow-up, Wuthering Waves, getting a lot of hype from gacha fans in 2024. Promising open-world exploration, lots of freedom in terms of combat options, and a rich narrative experience, this is as close to a surefire hit as they come. Its second closed beta ended in March 2024 and preregistration is open, so the wait is nearly over.   

Zenless Zone Zero

HoYoverse seems to be the dev that can do no wrong right now, so the hype around its next release Zenless Zone Zero is real. The game will be an urban fantasy ARPG with rogue-like mechanics, set in a new post-apocalyptic futuristic setting. There’s no official release date as yet but all indications point towards a 2024 release, with signups for preregistration already open and there have been a string of closed beta tests. 

For more best game recommendations here at Pro Game Guides, check out Best Games with Multiple Endings and 20 Best Games like Phasmophobia!