- Primary Schedule: The Honkai Nexus Anima launch date for the Evolution Test is July 9, 2026.
- Beta Duration: This closed beta test runs from July 9, 2026, to July 27, 2026.
- Supported Platforms: Players can join the test on PC, iOS, and Android devices.
- Global Release: While official dates are unannounced, a full launch is expected in late 2026 or 2027.
- Data Policy: The current test is a limited-access closed beta with a full account data wipe.
Honkai Nexus Anima Launch Date and Beta Timeline
The official Honkai Nexus Anima launch date for the highly anticipated second closed beta, known as the Evolution Test, has officially arrived. Developed by miHoYo under the HoYoverse brand, this installment brings a fresh creature-collector and strategic auto-battler dynamic to the acclaimed Honkai universe.
Understanding the milestone dates is crucial for players hoping to track development progress and plan for the eventual global release. The timeline below highlights the critical windows for both the previous and current testing phases.
| Testing Phase | Start Date | End Date | Test Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nexus Bond Test | September 17, 2025 | September 23, 2025 | Completed (Closed Beta) |
| Evolution Test | July 9, 2026 | July 27, 2026 | Active (Closed Beta) |
| Global Launch | TBA | TBA | Expected Late 2026 / 2027 |
The recruitment questionnaire for the Evolution Test closed on July 3, 2026. If you were selected through the lottery system, check your registered email or official HoYoverse account to find your invitation and download instructions.
Platform Support and System Requirements
HoYoverse has designed Honkai: Nexus Anima to be highly accessible across both desktop and mobile environments. The current Evolution Test is fully optimized for three primary platforms: PC, iOS, and Android.
To ensure stable performance during Nexus Battles and overworld exploration, players should verify that their devices meet the recommended specifications.
| Platform | Minimum Requirements | Recommended Specifications | Player Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| PC | Intel i5 / 8GB RAM / GTX 1060 | Intel i7 / 16GB RAM / RTX 2060 | Supports controller and keyboard mapping |
| iOS | iPhone 11 Pro / A13 Bionic | iPhone 14 or newer / A16 Bionic | Requires iOS 15.0 or later |
| Android | Snapdragon 845 / 6GB RAM | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 / 8GB RAM | Requires Android 9.0 or later |
All gameplay progress, collected Anima, and account levels achieved during the Evolution Test will be completely wiped once the servers close on July 27, 2026. No data will carry over to the final public release.
How to Access the Evolution Test
If you received an official invitation for the Evolution Test starting July 9, 2026, follow these structured steps to set up your account and begin your journey through the Reality Plane.
Verify Your Selection Status
Log in to the official Honkai: Nexus Anima website using your HoYoverse account. Navigate to the Beta Status page to confirm if your account has been whitelisted for the Evolution Test.
Download the Game Client
Use the platform-specific download links provided in your official email invitation. PC players will use the HoYoverse launcher, while mobile players will access the test via TestFlight (iOS) or a private Google Play link (Android).
Log In and Create Your Traveler
Launch the game client, log in using your whitelisted HoYoverse account, and complete the initial cutscenes to design your dimensional traveler.
Claim Pre-Registration Rewards
Navigate to the in-game mailbox after completing the tutorial to claim your milestone rewards. These items are provided to help speed up early-game Anima bonding and progression during the limited test period.
If you missed the beta sign-up, HoYoverse has confirmed that Honkai: Nexus Anima will be featured with playable hands-on demo booths at HoYo FEST 2026 across Southeast Asia from July 30 to August 2, 2026.
Evolution Test Gameplay Features
The Evolution Test introduces a massive expansion of content compared to the initial 2025 Bond Test. Players will explore the starting town of Iya Village, interact with major factions, and master the core strategic battle systems.
Anima Evolution System
- Multi-Stage Growth: Watch creatures grow, such as the Inkifoal to Inkicorn to Atragasus line.
- Visual Transformations: Evolution changes both appearance and combat capabilities.
- Aspect Power: Unlocks deeper elemental and concept-driven abilities.
Nexus Battles
- Auto-Battler Strategy: Place your Anima strategically on the arena board.
- Synergy Bonuses: Pair contrasting Aspects like Light and Dark for power boosts.
- Autonomous Combat: Positioning and preparation dictate victory.
Overworld Exploration
- Iya Village: Explore a detailed hub filled with shops and secrets.
- Anima Dispatch: Send your companion creatures to help run local merchant shops.
- Dimensional Travel: Travel across planes to uncover the mystery of the Sundering.
Don't forget to dispatch your idle Anima to work at the local shops in Iya Village. This is an excellent passive method to gather rare upgrade materials and currency while you are offline.
Evolution Test Checklist
To make the most of the limited testing window between July 9 and July 27, 2026, players should aim to complete these essential milestones.
Active Beta Milestones:
- Complete the main story quests in Iya Village
- Unlock and register at least ten unique Anima in your Anidex
- Successfully evolve an Anima to its third stage
- Reach Account Level 30 to unlock advanced Nexus Battles
- Submit feedback via the in-game survey to help shape the final release
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the exact Honkai Nexus Anima launch date for the Evolution Test?
The Evolution Test launched on July 9, 2026, at 11:00 KST, and is scheduled to close on July 27, 2026, at 19:00 KST.
Q: Will my progress from the Evolution Test carry over to the global launch?
No. The Evolution Test is a closed, data-wiping beta. All account progress, characters, and collected Anima will be deleted after July 27, 2026.
Q: What platforms can I play the beta on?
The current test is supported on PC, iOS, and Android devices. Console support has not been announced for this testing phase.
Q: When is the final global release date for Honkai: Nexus Anima?
HoYoverse has not announced an official global release date. Based on typical testing cycles, the game is expected to launch in late 2026 or 2027.