15 Best Free-to-Play Gacha Games to Start Playing

In recent years, gacha games have gained a massive global following. With addictive mechanics, stunning art, and deep progression systems, they’ve become an essential part of the mobile gaming universe and even expanded onto PC and consoles. Whether you’re just starting out or already a veteran, here’s a list of the 15 best gacha games you need to try.

The term “gacha” comes from Japanese capsule toy machines called “gachapon,” where you insert a coin and get a random prize. In gacha games, this concept transforms into mechanics where players use virtual (or real) currency to “summon” or “pull” random characters, weapons, or items. These games usually involve team-building, strategic battles, and engaging storylines.

Genshin Impact

Genshin Impact is an open-world action RPG that has captivated millions of players since its 2020 release. Inspired by The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, it delivers a visually stunning experience with gorgeous landscapes, smooth animations, and a world-class orchestral soundtrack.

You play as a Traveler from another world searching for your lost sibling across the vast continent of Teyvat. Along the way, you’ll meet a wide cast of characters, each with unique abilities tied to the game’s seven elements (Anemo, Pyro, Hydro, etc.). Combat is fast-paced and dynamic, focusing on elemental reactions to create powerful strategies.

What sets Genshin Impact apart is its consistent updates and ever-expanding world, keeping the community engaged with new events, quests, and characters. With its beautiful art direction, top-quality voice acting, and cross-platform support (PC, consoles, and mobile), it remains one of the most accessible and polished gacha games available.

Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox, Android, iOS

Zenless Zone Zero

Zenless Zone Zero (ZZZ) brings a cyberpunk flair to a post-apocalyptic urban setting known as New Eridu. Unlike open-world titles, ZZZ focuses on fast, fluid action with stylish hack-and-slash combat.

You play as a “Proxy,” either Wise or Belle, who runs a video rental shop called Random Play while guiding Agents through dangerous dimensions known as Hollows. Combat is flashy and responsive, featuring dodges, Witch Time-style counters, and seamless character swaps. Roguelike elements appear in the “TV Mode,” where maps resemble old TV screens with puzzles to solve.

The story is strong, with protagonists who feel like actual characters rather than silent avatars, reminiscent of Persona. There are also daily activities such as managing the shop, interacting with NPCs, and playing minigames, making it enjoyable for both casual and hardcore players.

Platforms: Android, iOS, PlayStation 5, Xbox, GeForce Now, Microsoft Windows

Arknights

Arknights is a tactical tower defense game with a deep strategy layer and immersive storytelling. You play as the “Doctor,” commanding Operators with unique abilities to defend key points against waves of enemies.

Gameplay mixes RPG and management mechanics, with eight Operator classes (Vanguard, Sniper, Medic, etc.) that require smart positioning and tactical decisions. The pace is flexible, allowing you to pause and plan each move like solving a living puzzle. The base-building system, with dormitories and resource production, adds another rewarding layer of strategy.

Visually, Arknights blends detailed 2D character art with polished 3D backgrounds, complemented by a varied soundtrack that shifts from dark and atmospheric to upbeat and energetic.

Platforms: Android, iOS

Fate/Grand Order

Fate/Grand Order (FGO) is a tactical RPG and visual novel hybrid where you take the role of a “Master” who summons “Servants” based on historical, literary, and mythological figures. Battles are turn-based, using command cards (Buster, Arts, Quick) to form combos and unleash devastating Noble Phantasms.

The story spans across different eras, as you repair temporal anomalies called Singularities. The Servant roster is massive, each with their own backstories and unique gameplay. Strategic depth comes from team composition and the card system, making every fight rewarding.

Fate/Grand Order is rich in narrative, characters, and strategy, making it perfect for fans of the Fate franchise or players who love history and tactical RPGs.

Platforms: Android, iOS

Dragon Ball Legends

Dragon Ball Legends blends real-time combat with card mechanics, offering accessible yet strategic gameplay. Swipe to dodge, tap to attack, and select melee, ranged, or special cards to chain powerful combos, all with simple one-finger controls.

The game stands out with faithful 3D character models, anime-inspired animations, and flashy effects that make every battle thrilling. The story follows Shallot while also revisiting classic Dragon Ball arcs with creative twists. Text and illustrations are well done, though voice acting is limited in key dialogue.

Its real-time PvP mode adds excitement and competitiveness, making it appealing to both casual fans and competitive players, though grinding can feel repetitive.

Platforms: Android, iOS, iPadOS

Guardian Tales

Guardian Tales combines strategy, action, and puzzles in a retro-inspired experience. With charming pixel art, witty dialogue, and cultural references, it pays homage to classics like Zelda and Metroidvania. Levels are packed with secrets, puzzles, and engaging combat using simple D-pad controls and two core actions that expand over time.

The story starts lighthearted but quickly grows more engaging, with character reactions that can be hilarious or surprisingly emotional. Beyond the main campaign, players can enjoy extra stages, raids, PvP, co-op, and the Heavenhold hub where heroes interact.

Its gacha system is free-to-play friendly, offering plenty of free summons and minimal pay-to-win pressure. While grind and limited endgame content may turn off hardcore players, Guardian Tales is perfect for those seeking nostalgia and fun gameplay.

Platforms: Nintendo Switch, Android, iOS

Honkai: Star Rail

Honkai: Star Rail transports players into a sci-fi universe with fantasy elements, taking them aboard the Astral Express to explore planets filled with unique cultures and cosmic mysteries.

It features turn-based combat where team synergy and elemental abilities are essential. Each character follows a “Path” (like The Hunt, Destruction, or Erudition) and an element, encouraging creative and balanced team-building.

The anime-style visuals are stunning, with cinematic combat animations, an immersive soundtrack, and multilingual voice acting (including English and Portuguese). Exploration mixes semi-open maps, light puzzles, and well-crafted story events, creating a smooth progression.

Platforms: PlayStation 5, Android, GeForce Now, iOS, Microsoft Windows

Pokémon Masters EX

Pokémon Masters EX offers a unique take on the series: 3v3 real-time battles with sync pairs (Trainer + Pokémon duos) on the artificial island of Pasio. Teams are built around five roles: strike, support, tech, sync accelerator, and sync regulator, requiring careful strategy.

Combat blends auto-attacks with gauge-based skills and special trainer moves that buff or heal allies.

The game features a vast collection of sync pairs, letting you recruit iconic Trainers like Misty, Cynthia, Red, and more, each with their own unlockable side stories. The main narrative follows the Pokémon Masters League tournament, complemented by co-op events, legendary arenas, and competitive modes like Battle Villa.

Pokémon Masters EX is great for fans who want to relive classic moments with their favorite Trainers, though the grind and monetization can be demanding for competitive players.

Platforms: Android, iOS

Epic Seven

Featuring high-quality 2D animated graphics and a compelling story, Epic Seven stands out in the mobile gacha genre.

Combat is turn-based, with players forming teams of heroes, each with unique abilities. Strategy is essential, considering elemental affinities, skills, and character interactions. Progression involves upgrading equipment and abilities, with a rune system that, while deep, relies heavily on RNG (luck).

The story focuses on the battle against the Archdemon, blending classic fantasy elements with thrilling moments. Characters are well-developed, each with a distinct backstory and skills.

While friendly for free-to-play players, significant grinding is required to reach endgame content. The gacha system, even with a pity mechanic, can be frustrating for players seeking specific characters.

Platforms: Android, iOS, Web Browser

Summoners War: Sky Arena

In Summoners War: Sky Arena, players take on the role of a “summoner,” calling forth elemental monsters (Water, Fire, Wind, Light, Dark), evolving them to six stars, and unlocking unique abilities through runes and essences.

With 3D battles, skill choices, and elemental and class-based strategy, each duel feels unique. Auto-battle and speed-up options are available for grinding, but the core gameplay revolves around optimizing runes and building balanced teams.

Modes like Arena, World Arena (PvP), Guild Wars, Rift of Worlds, and cooperative dungeons offer ongoing challenges for dedicated players. Over the years, the game has seen quality-of-life improvements, summon filters, Mana economy adjustments, and F2P-focused initiatives.

Platforms: Android, iOS

Azur Lane

Azur Lane combines shoot ’em up mechanics with gacha, providing a unique experience for fans of naval combat and “shipgirl” characters.

Players command anthropomorphized warships, forming fleets to battle enemies in side-scrolling combat. Each “shipgirl” has unique abilities and stats, requiring strategic team composition. Progression involves upgrading characters, equipping items, and optimizing fleet synergy.

The gacha system is free-to-play friendly, with relatively high chances to obtain rare characters and multiple ways to gather resources without spending real money.

Despite accessibility, typical gacha challenges remain, including repetitive daily tasks and resource management.

Platforms: Android, iOS

Blue Archive

Blue Archive has gained a loyal following thanks to its mix of narrative, anime-style visuals, and accessible combat mechanics. Set in the fictional city of Kivotos, players assume the role of a new teacher guiding students, all girls with unique personalities, on missions ranging from gang conflicts to school investigations. While initially lighthearted, the story addresses deeper themes with sensitivity.

Gameplay combines real-time strategy with RPG elements, fielding teams of four main characters and two support units. Combat animations are charming, featuring a “chibi” style that adds visual appeal. The game has deep progression and character variety but involves grinding.

Blue Archive stands out with detailed illustrations and a clean interface. However, its gacha monetization can frustrate players who avoid spending money. It remains one of the best mobile RPGs for its balance of narrative, engaging combat, and visual design.

Platforms: Android, iOS

Goddess of Victory: NIKKE

Goddess of Victory: NIKKE is a third-person action RPG and shooter noted for its gameplay, impressive graphics, and story.

In a post-apocalyptic future, players act as a commander leading a squad of Nikkes, artificial soldiers designed to combat mechanical invaders called Raptures. Gameplay combines third-person shooting with RPG mechanics, allowing players to switch between Nikkes and strategically use their special abilities.

The game features high-quality graphics, detailed character designs, and smooth animations. The gacha system is controversial, with low rates for rare characters making progression difficult for free-to-play players and heavy reliance on microtransactions for those seeking faster advancement.

Platforms: Android, iOS, PC

Alchemy Stars

Alchemy Stars takes place in the world of Astra, where players, as Caelestite survivors, assist the Aurorians in fighting the Eclipsites.

Combat mixes puzzle mechanics with RPG elements. Players connect colored tiles corresponding to character elements (Fire, Water, Thunder, Forest) to trigger attacks and special abilities. Team-building involves classes like Detonators, Supporters, and Converters, adding depth and strategy.

The game features impressive visuals, detailed character art, and a well-designed Colossus base that enhances storytelling. Its gacha and RNG mechanics may frustrate free-to-play players, but Alchemy Stars offers a unique experience for tactical RPG enthusiasts.

Platforms: Android, iOS

Reverse: 1999

Set in an alternate timeline where the year 1999 never ended, Reverse: 1999 follows Vertin, the Time Guardian, traveling across eras to prevent the “Storm” from erasing history.

Combat is card-based, with each character having unique cards that can be combined for stronger attacks. Card fusion and resource management (Moxie) add strategic depth. Systems like “Portray” for character enhancement and “Psychubes” and “Resonance” for customization provide extra layers of gameplay.

Reverse: 1999 blends pop art, classical painting, and vaporwave aesthetics for a unique visual style. Live2D models and cinematic animations, especially for ultimate abilities, elevate the presentation. Its gacha system is fairly generous, allowing free players to enjoy content without major obstacles. It’s ideal for fans of strategic RPGs with deep narratives and rich visuals.

Gacha games are more than random character draws. They involve strategy, storytelling, design, and active communities. Whether you are looking for a new obsession or want to explore fantastical worlds filled with hundreds of unique characters, this list is an excellent starting point.

Pick your favorite and start summoning!