HoYoverse, the developer behind popular titles like Genshin Impact and Honkai: Star Rail, is reportedly working on a new open-world game codenamed Project Shanghai. Drawing inspiration from Western open-world titles such as Grand Theft Auto, this project is said to be more ambitious than any of HoYoverse’s previous endeavors.

Project Shanghai: A New Direction for HoYoverse

According to a Bloomberg report, Project Shanghai represents a significant shift for HoYoverse, moving away from its traditional anime-styled fantasy games towards a more Western-inspired open-world experience. The game is reportedly being developed by a team that includes veterans from major Western studios like Ubisoft and Electronic Arts. While specific details about the game’s art style remain unconfirmed, it’s unclear whether HoYoverse will maintain its signature anime aesthetics or adopt a more realistic look for this title.

Challenges and Strategic Shifts

HoYoverse has faced challenges with its recent releases, as each new game appears to divert players from previous titles. This fragmentation has reportedly led to a 23% drop in mobile revenue in 2024. In response, the company is exploring riskier and more varied game genres, with Project Shanghai being a prime example of this strategic shift. The project has reportedly undergone two reboots, indicating HoYoverse’s commitment to refining its vision for the game.

The Future of Project Shanghai

While Project Shanghai is still in development and details remain scarce, its ambition suggests that HoYoverse is aiming to create a blockbuster title that could rival or even surpass the success of Genshin Impact. As mobile gaming technology continues to advance, the potential for more complex and expansive games on mobile platforms grows, making Project Shanghai a highly anticipated release for fans of open-world games.