Developer Hypergryph has significantly refined Arknights: Endfield's combat and factory systems based on feedback from its 2024 technical test. The upcoming Beta II test begins on November 28, 2025, showcasing these improvements in an open-world action RPG set in the Arknights universe. The game is slated for an early 2026 release on PlayStation 5, PC, and mobile devices.
Overview of Changes
Arknights: Endfield, an open-world action RPG with building mechanics, has undergone substantial updates since its January 2024 global technical test. Hypergryph reports reworking 80 to 90% of cutscenes and dialogue, about 50% of map structures, and 40 to 50% of level design. These changes aim to make the game more accessible and engaging, as previewed in a recent five-hour session ahead of the beta.
The story follows the Endministrator, who harnesses Originium to combat enemies and build machines. Players can deploy up to four characters, controlling one at a time, in a system reminiscent of gacha RPGs like Genshin Impact but distinguished by its factory-building elements.
Combat Improvements
Combat has been made snappier with the addition of a dodge mechanic and enhanced combo skills. Ryan, Hypergryph co-founder and lead designer, explained the rationale: "This [change to combat] is done mainly because we received feedback that certain players believe our combat may not be as smooth as they have wanted. Basic attacks, for example, may easily get interrupted and [break] their combos. So we've added dodge, and we've also made changes to basic combat."
Dodging evades damage and charges skill points, alongside basic attacks and combos. Combo skills trigger under specific conditions, adding strategic depth, such as stacking attacks after stunning enemies.
Factory System Revamp
The signature factory system, used for mining, transportation, and puzzles, is now more approachable. Tutorials provide step-by-step guidance, and a new blueprint system allows copying layouts. Ryan noted: "Some players feel that the factory system is a very daunting task, so they don't know how to get started with [it]... we thought of the blueprint [system] as a great solution."
Players build structures like relay towers and ziplines from the AIC hub to power machines and solve environmental challenges.
Gacha and Release Details
As a free-to-play gacha RPG, Arknights: Endfield features standard and limited-time banners. Unlike typical systems, featured characters remain available post-banner on the standard pool. Confirmed free characters include Perlica, Chen, and Wulfgard.
The beta signup is available on the official website, with the full release planned for early 2026.