- Honkai Nexus Anima evolution test: The second closed beta runs from July 9 to July 27, 2026, on PC, iOS, and Android platforms.
- Evolution Mechanics: Bonding, shared battles, and care trigger visual and mechanical transformations for your Anima companions.
- Combat Strategy: Position your Anima strategically on the battlefield to master auto-battler-style Nexus Battles.
- Rare Variants: Look out for Chromatic Anima, rare color variants featuring unique sparkle effects.
- Progress Rules: This is a limited, free closed beta test with no monetization and a complete account data wipe.
Evolution Test Schedule and Platform Details
The Honkai Nexus Anima evolution test marks a major milestone for HoYoverse's upcoming creature-collecting adventure strategy game. Running from July 9 to July 27, 2026, this second closed beta test introduces expanded regions, new characters, and the highly anticipated Anima evolution system. Players step into the shoes of a plane-hopping traveler starting their journey in Iia, a quiet town in the Reality Plane.
| Test Attribute | Details and Specifications | Player Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Test Period | July 9, 2026, to July 27, 2026 | Servers open at 11:00 KST on July 9 |
| Platforms | PC, iOS, and Android | Platform assigned via questionnaire |
| Test Type | Closed beta with data wipe | No monetization, data does not carry over |
| Device Lock | Bound to the first logged-in device | Switching devices mid-test may cause a ban |
Your test eligibility is strictly bound to the first device you use to log in on each platform. Do not attempt to switch devices or share your account, as this will lead to an immediate ban and disqualification from future tests.
Anima Raising and Evolution Mechanics
At the heart of the Honkai Nexus Anima evolution test is the brand-new evolution system. Anima are mysterious creatures manifested from disrupted Nexus connections, carrying remnant primal powers. Raising these companions goes beyond simple stat boosts; evolution represents a physical and mechanical milestone in your bond.
Bonding & Raising
Strengthen your connection through daily interactions, exploration, and story moments to trigger powerful evolutions.
Evolution Lines
Watch your companions transform, such as Inkifoal evolving into Inkicorn and finally into Atragasus.
Chromatic Anima
Discover rare color variants featuring bright sparkle effects that make your collection truly stand out.
The evolution system gives the raising loop incredible depth. Evolved Anima gain larger forms, enhanced abilities, and bring a massive visual impact to the battlefield. Additionally, players can personalize their journey by giving each of their bonded Anima a custom name.
| Evolution Stage | Form Example | Visual Theme & Features | Gameplay Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stage 1 | Inkifoal | Small, cute companion design | Basic combat and exploration support |
| Stage 2 | Inkicorn | Growing horn, sleeker design | Unlocks intermediate active skills |
| Stage 3 | Atragasus | Large, winged majestic creature | High visual impact, powerful ultimate abilities |
Keep an eye out during missions and street encounters. Chromatic Anima are rare, but they provide the ultimate bragging rights and unique visual flair for dedicated collectors.
Nexus Battles and Combat Strategy Guide
Combat in the Honkai Nexus Anima evolution test is built around auto-battler-style Nexus Battles. Players construct teams of Anima companions and place them strategically on the arena grid. While the Anima fight semi-autonomously, the player can actively influence the tide of battle using character-specific skills.
Analyze the Field
Examine the enemy lineup, their positioning, and their elemental or Aspect weaknesses before placing your units.
Position Your Frontline
Place high-durability bruisers or protectors, such as Fyrklor, in the front rows to absorb damage and protect squishier allies.
Set Up Backline Synergy
Position ranged attackers, utility support, or bond-focused Anima safely behind your frontline protectors.
Execute Character Skills
Trigger active character skills during combat to heal allies, deal direct damage, or provide crucial tactical buffs.
| Combat Role | Recommended Anima | Primary Function | Positioning Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Frontline Protector | Fyrklor | Absorbs damage, creates space | Always place in the front row |
| Melee Pressure | Scorscythe | Deals aggressive melee damage | Place off-center to flank enemies |
| Utility Support | Umpurrella | Provides shields and utility | Position safely in the middle or back rows |
| Exploration/Utility | Camcorgi | Offers memory and tactical utility | Place in backline support slots |
Do not rely solely on raw power. Combining complementary Aspect traits and pairing frontline protectors with high-damage backline units is the most effective way to clear high-level challenges.
Evolution Test Checklist and Goals
To make the most of the limited-time Honkai Nexus Anima evolution test, players should focus on key progression milestones. Since account data will be wiped at the end of the test, exploring all the newly added systems and providing feedback is the best way to prepare for the official launch.
Beta Progression Milestones:
- Trigger at least one three-stage Anima evolution
- Encounter and capture a rare Chromatic Anima variant
- Unlock and test out the True Nexus Syndicate and Nexus Association factions
- Participate in the Apex Club challenges to bond with unique Anima
Be sure to join the official Discord server to complete account verification, report bugs, and share your gameplay experiences directly with the developers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will my progress carry over to the official launch?
No. This is a limited, free closed beta test with a complete account data wipe. All progress will be deleted when the test ends.
Q: Can I play the Evolution Test on multiple devices?
Your test access is strictly bound to the first device you use to log in on each platform. Switching devices mid-test can result in an account ban.
Q: What are Chromatic Anima?
Chromatic Anima are rare color variants of standard Anima that feature unique visual sparkle effects, making them highly collectible.