Introduction
In recent years, the term gacha game has become so familiar that many now regard it as a distinct genre of video games. Blockbuster titles like Genshin Impact and Honkai: Star Rail have captivated millions of players worldwide, sparking frenzied trends such as “banner pulls” and the pursuit of coveted five-star characters. However, the essence of gacha extends far beyond simply spending money for a chance-based draw. This article aims to offer a comprehensive understanding of what defines a gacha game its origins, popular variations, psychological appeal, and a broadened perspective on how gacha mechanics influence other randomized systems in game design.
The Origins of Gacha – From Toy Capsule Machines to Mobile Games
To truly understand what “gacha” means, we must travel back in time to Japan. The term gacha derives from gachapon (also spelled gashapon), a type of vending machine that dispenses small toy capsules. The word “gacha” imitates the cranking sound of the machine, while “pon” represents the sound of the capsule dropping into the tray. Players insert a coin, turn the handle, and receive a completely random toy. The unpredictability of the reward creates a sense of excitement that compels both children and adults to spend repeatedly.
As video games evolved, the mechanic of “randomized rewards” began appearing in early titles such as Monster Rancher (1997) and The Legend of Zelda: Oracle of Ages (2001). In 2010, Dragon Collection released on the Japanese social networking site GREE became the first mobile game to implement a gacha system successfully. From there, the model spread rapidly, becoming a dominant monetization strategy across Asia.
Defining Gacha Games – A Currency-Based Randomization Mechanic
According to marketing experts at Udonis, a gacha game is one in which players use pulls, spins, or loot boxes to obtain random rewards. These rewards are typically characters, weapons, or valuable items categorized by different rarity tiers. To perform a “pull,” players must use in-game currency acquired either through gameplay or real-money purchases. In many cases, rare or high-value items can only be obtained through the gacha system.
The website HYTE emphasizes that gacha perfectly replicates the gachapon experience: players spend money (virtual or real), perform gacha pulls, and receive a random character or piece of equipment. The appeal lies in the element of chance each pull offers a slim possibility of securing an ultra-rare item that significantly boosts the value of a player’s account.
DIY.org, a platform aimed at parents, similarly defines gacha games as mobile games where players use virtual currency (earned or purchased) to obtain random rewards inspired by capsule toy machines. The surprise element and collectability make gacha mechanics appealing to both children and adults alike.
Gacha Is Not the Same as a Loot Box
Many people tend to conflate gacha systems with loot boxes. While both involve randomized rewards, Udonis clarifies that gacha functions as a core progression mechanic, whereas loot boxes are typically supplementary features. In gacha games, most essential characters and equipment are only obtainable through gacha pulls, compelling players to invest time or money to build competitive teams. In contrast, loot boxes generally contain items that can also be acquired through other means such as defeating enemies, completing quests, or purchasing them directly meaning the randomness does not dictate the entire progression of the game.
Common Types of Gacha Systems
Not all gacha mechanics are created equal. Udonis outlines several variations that frequently appear in mobile games:
1. Kompu (Complete) Gacha: Players must collect an entire set of specific cards before they can exchange them for a rare item. Due to the extremely low odds of completion, this model was eventually banned in Japan.
2. Step-up Gacha: The drop rate for rare items increases with each successive pull. Some games guarantee a five-star item after a certain number of pulls—such as the 10th or 90th—to encourage continuous spending.
3. Box (Package) Gacha: Rewards are placed in a limited pool or “box.” Each pull removes an item from the box, gradually increasing the odds of obtaining a rare item as the pool depletes.
4. Consecutive Gacha: Players receive bonuses or discounts for performing multiple pulls at once (e.g., 10-pull, 50-pull). This type maximizes efficiency and allows players to claim multiple items simultaneously.
5. Sugoroku Gacha: Inspired by board games, players move along a game board to earn rewards. Each pull acts like a dice roll or spin, determining how many spaces the player advances.
6. Open/Closed Gacha: In open gacha systems, developers publicly disclose the drop rates for items; in closed gacha systems, these probabilities remain hidden. Countries like China now mandate the public disclosure of gacha drop rates.
These variations reveal that gacha is far more than just a randomized spin. It represents a sophisticated system that manipulates probabilities, content structure, and player experience to drive long-term engagement.
The Psychological Appeal of Gacha
What makes gacha games so addictive? Udonis explains that gacha systems create a powerful emotional cycle: anticipation – excitement – release. As players accumulate resources and prepare to perform a pull, they experience a heightened sense of expectation and tension. The moment the results are revealed similar to opening a gift or scratching a lottery ticket triggers a rush of excitement. If the pull yields a rare item, it brings elation; if not, the resulting disappointment often prompts a desire to “try one more time.” This loop easily leads to repeated gacha behavior.
Additionally, gacha mechanics tap into players’ urge to collect. Many strive to own every character in the game, even if they don’t use them all, because completing a collection provides a deep sense of satisfaction. When developers tease new characters, the community often responds with anticipation not just due to gameplay value, but also because of the characters’ backstories, appearance, and relationships. This emotional attachment drives many to spend money in order to obtain their favorite waifu or husbando.
Social dynamics also play a significant role. According to HYTE, gacha games emphasize multiplayer features, leaderboards, and regular events to foster community engagement. Players often showcase rare pulls on social media, triggering FOMO (fear of missing out) among others and encouraging them to try their luck as well. DIY.org warns parents that the randomness and exclusivity of rewards can stimulate impulsive spending behaviors in children.
Controversy and Legal Regulations
Gacha systems are often compared to gambling due to their reliance on randomness to drive spending behavior. Udonis notes that many players have spent thousands of dollars chasing their favorite characters only to regret it later. One widely reported case involved a man spending up to $70,000 on the game Fate/Grand Order. Such instances have sparked debate about the ethical responsibilities of game developers.
As a result, several countries have enacted regulations, requiring developers to disclose drop rates or banning exploitative variations such as kompu gacha. In China, the law mandates that all games must publicly reveal their gacha drop rates, allowing players to make more informed decisions before spending. Across Europe, many countries are considering classifying gacha mechanics as a form of gambling, which would subject them to stricter oversight.
Gacha and RNG – Randomness in Game Design
At its core, gacha is built upon a random number generation (RNG) system that determines outcomes. As WIN.gg highlights, many mobile games use RNG within gacha mechanics: players spend in-game currency to receive a character or item with fully randomized results. The thrill of not knowing what the next pull will yield is a key part of the experience.
In fact, RNG is present across numerous game genres. In RPGs, it governs loot drops from defeated enemies; in strategy games, it influences hit and evade chances. Critical hit rates, randomized damage, and procedurally generated maps are all examples of RNG-based systems that enhance unpredictability. Gacha can be seen as a specialized application of RNG, focused specifically on reward systems.
Expanding the Concept of Gacha: Randomness Beyond “Banner Pulls”
At its core, gacha is a randomized mechanic where players accept risk in exchange for the chance to receive a reward. Based on this definition, the concept of gacha can be extended to various game systems that do not involve monetary transactions but still rely heavily on RNG (random number generation). For example:
1. Roguelike and Roguelite Games: Titles such as Hades, Dead Cells, Slay the Spire, and certain modes in Arknights incorporate random elements at the start of each run skills, weapons, enemies, and maps are constantly reshuffled. Choosing upgrades after each level resembles a “draw,” creating suspense and encouraging players to adapt. Although these systems don’t require money for “pulls,” they still leverage RNG and cater to a desire for discovery.
2 Loot-Based Systems in RPGs: Games like Diablo or Borderlands use RNG to determine the attributes of loot drops. Players defeat enemies, open chests, and receive randomized gear. Some games even implement “pity” mechanics similar to gacha systems after a certain number of attempts or “farms,” the probability of receiving a rare item significantly increases.
3. Randomized Characters or Abilities: In some shooters and action games, players receive random abilities mid-match, forcing them to build new strategies on the fly. This creates a gacha-like experience: you don’t know what you’ll get, but you must make the most of the outcome.
The expanded definition of gacha is not intended to equate all forms of RNG with gambling, but rather to emphasize that randomness is a fundamental aspect of game design. When implemented thoughtfully, RNG can enhance replayability, introduce freshness to gameplay, and challenge players to make strategic decisions. However, when randomness is tied to real-money transactions without transparency, it can easily become a tool for psychological exploitation.
Modern Gacha Games – A Diverse Hybrid Experience
Following the success of Genshin Impact, the market has witnessed a surge in hybrid gacha games that blend multiple genres. According to HYTE, standout gacha titles in 2025 include Genshin Impact, Honkai: Star Rail, Arknights, and Goddess of Victory: Nikke. These games go beyond mere character pulls they feature open worlds, real-time action combat, roguelike elements, and deep character-building systems. Developers like HoYoverse have proven that gacha mechanics can coexist with high-quality gameplay experiences.
Emerging trends point toward enhanced visuals, richer storytelling, and expanded cooperative or competitive modes. However, HYTE also predicts that the gacha industry will face increasing pressure regarding transparency and ethical practices. Developers may be required to disclose drop rates and implement player protection measures. Meanwhile, DIY.org advises parents to set spending limits and have open conversations with their children about the potential risks of gacha systems.
Conclusion
Gacha games represent a fusion of randomness and collection mechanics. Originating from Japan’s gachapon capsule toy machines, gacha has evolved into a massive business model within the mobile gaming industry. Its many variants from kompu gacha to box gacha offer diverse experiences, all rooted in RNG-based reward systems. The appeal of gacha lies in its emotional cycles, the satisfaction of completing a collection, and its strong sense of community.
However, the downside of gacha is its potential to foster addictive behaviors and uncontrolled spending, prompting regulatory action in various countries to protect players. Broadly speaking, gacha is more than just a monetization tool it’s also an embodiment of randomness in game design. Roguelike games with random skill selection, loot-based RPGs, and other draw-based mechanics all utilize RNG to create novelty and unpredictability. When players understand these systems and set healthy boundaries, randomness becomes an engaging feature rather than a psychological trap.
With advancements in technology and growing ethical expectations, the future of gacha games will hinge on balancing chance, creativity, and social responsibility. Players must be informed to enjoy games in a healthy way, while developers need to prioritize transparency and player experience. The essence of gacha surprise and uncertainty will continue to captivate us, whether in the form of banner pulls or roguelike systems that are free from monetary influence.