gacha

Gacha is a game mechanic that originated in Japan with gachapon capsule toy vending machines. In video games, players spend virtual or real currency to perform random draws, producing items such as characters, weapons, or resources. Each draw reveals one or more items according to predefined rarity rates. The term combines gacha from the sound of the machine with pon, the toy’s pop.

Gacha systems are common in mobile games and free-to-play titles. Players often spend a premium currency to perform draws, sometimes with limited availability. Some games feature banners or sets that rotate, offering exclusive or powerful units for a limited time. To reduce frustration, many titles implement pity systems that guarantee a high-rarity item after a number of unsuccessful draws, with variations like soft pity (probability increases gradually) or hard pity (a guaranteed item at a fixed threshold).

Dupes and materials: When a duplicate item is drawn, it may convert into upgrade materials or in-game currency, or power up existing units. The economic design of gacha systems aims to balance engagement, monetization, and progression.

Monetization and audience: Gacha games monetize primarily through microtransactions and timed events. A minority of players, sometimes called whales, account for a large share of revenue.

Criticism and regulation: Gacha mechanics have faced criticism for simulating gambling-like behavior and encouraging spending. Several jurisdictions require disclosure of odds or cap certain features; developers may add opt-out options or limit looping.