The Irresistible Anime Action Game to Play While Waiting for a NieR Sequel

It is difficult to process that Nier: Automata is now nearly a decade old. Despite its monumental success—surpassing 10 million copies sold by early 2026—fans are still waiting for a true successor. While Square Enix recently teased the future of the franchise with a cryptic “to be continued” video, players looking for that specific brand of high-octane action shouldn’t overlook Homura Hime, a striking new hack-and-slash title with a vibrant anime aesthetic.

In Crimson Dusk’s debut outing, you step into the role of a formidable exorcist tasked with purging a world infested by demons. The combat is both fluid and flamboyant; while Homura Hime relies on a primary set of twin blades that hover at her back—evoking the iconic style of Nier—the depth lies in her extensive move pool. Players can harvest currency to unlock fresh techniques via a vendor who conveniently manifests mid-level, ensuring your arsenal evolves without interrupting the flow of the mission.

The versatility of the skill system is a highlight, offering abilities that are as visually arresting as they are lethal. You might summon a massive phoenix to bathe the arena in flames or propel yourself forward in a devastating whirlwind of steel. One particularly satisfying maneuver allows you to teleport your blades directly onto a distant foe, shredding them while you maintain a safe vantage point.

Since special skills are balanced by cooldowns, mastering standard combos is essential. By mixing light and heavy strikes, you can launch enemies into the air for juggling or finish sequences with blades that spin like vertical rotors. Every encounter feels like a choreographed spectacle, successfully delivering the power fantasy of a master demon slayer.

The parry system is equally refined, utilizing intuitive audio cues to help players find the right rhythm. Successfully deflecting attacks isn’t just about defense—it actively reduces your skill cooldowns, encouraging an aggressive playstyle. During intense boss encounters, chaining parries becomes vital for staggering opponents and opening them up to cinematic finishers.

If there is a drawback, it lies in the narrative delivery. While the lore surrounding the corrupted archdemons is compelling, much of the storytelling happens mid-combat. With the audio exclusively in Japanese, English-speaking players may find it nearly impossible to track subtitles while simultaneously navigating chaotic bullet-hell patterns and dodging lethal strikes.

Despite the frantic storytelling, the boss battles themselves are exhilarating. Early encounters—such as a demon wielding a colossal skeleton or a macabre spirit summoning flora from a coffin—serve as rigorous skill checks. Conquering these foes provides a sense of accomplishment akin to the best encounters in the Souls series.

Though 2026 has only just begun, Homura Hime is already a standout in the action genre. With its blend of stylish combat, rewarding mechanics, and breathtaking visuals, it is the perfect companion for anyone waiting for the next installment of Bayonetta, Devil May Cry, or Nier.

Source: Polygon