In case you missed the latest gaming buzz, the gacha action-RPG Black Beacon has just launched its global beta test. If you're on the fence about whether to dive in, don't worry—we've got you covered. We spent the weekend exploring the beta to determine if Black Beacon has the potential to be the next big mobile gacha hit.

Setting and Story

Let's dive into the premise. Black Beacon is an action RPG gacha game set within the enigmatic halls of the Library of Babel. This setting draws inspiration from Jorge Luis Borges' short story about a universe in the form of an immense library containing every conceivable text. Most books are gibberish, but somewhere within its shelves, every book ever written exists.

Additionally, the Library of Babel in Black Beacon echoes the biblical Tower of Babel, aiming to reach the heavens. The game weaves in Judeo-Christian mythology, a refreshing departure from the usual folklore seen in many games. Think of it as Evangelion meets gacha gaming.

You step into the shoes of The Seer, a typical gacha protagonist who awakens in this mysterious place with no recollection of their arrival. As the new custodian of the Library of Babel, you're handed a heavy destiny. The other characters, while not shocked by your presence, are tight-lipped about the details.

Your arrival triggers significant changes, including a monstrous entity emerging from the depths. Coupled with time-travel twists reminiscent of Doctor Who and a menacing clockwork star threatening to obliterate everything, you'll need to act fast. Now, let's shift gears and explore the gameplay.

Gameplay

In Black Beacon, you'll navigate a 3D free-roaming environment, with the flexibility to switch between top-down and free camera perspectives using simple touchscreen gestures. The real-time combat system is dynamic and engaging, focusing on chaining combos and executing special moves.

A standout feature is the ability to switch characters mid-fight or even during combos, encouraging a tag team strategy. This mechanic not only adds depth but also allows benched characters to quickly regenerate stamina. There's no penalty for swapping, so you can manage your team as if you're in a high-stakes anime battle.

Combat demands attention to timing and enemy patterns, making it both deep and accessible. While you can easily dispatch weaker enemies, more formidable foes will challenge your skills, often sending you flying if you're not careful.

As a gacha game, Black Beacon offers a variety of characters, each bringing unique combat styles and moves. This diversity ensures that every new character feels impactful and worth exploring. Some characters are so intriguing that you'll be eager to delve deeper into their stories.

Playing the Beta

If Black Beacon piques your interest, you can join the global beta test. Android users can download it from Google Play, while iOS users can participate via TestFlight, though spots are limited. Simply follow the link, sign up, and you'll be able to play through the first five chapters.

If you enjoy the beta, consider pre-registering. By doing so through the official website, you'll receive 10 Development Material Boxes. Google Play pre-registration offers an exclusive costume for Zero.

It's too early to tell if Black Beacon will become the next big thing in the gacha genre, but we're certainly eager to see how it evolves.