The collaboration between Shift Up's *Goddess of Victory: NIKKE* and *Neon Genesis Evangelion* in August 2024 didn't quite meet player expectations. A recent interview with NIKKE's producer shed light on what went awry with the NIKKE x Evangelion crossover.
What Went Wrong?
Shift Up admitted that the Evangelion collab event had its shortcomings. The event introduced characters like Rei, Asuka, Mari, and Misato in outfits that closely mirrored their original designs. However, these outfits didn't capture the enthusiasm of the player base.
Initially, Shift Up's designs for the Evangelion characters were considered too erotic by Evangelion's creators. In response, the designs were toned down to meet the licensors' standards. While this change satisfied the licensors, it left players unimpressed with the 'modified' aesthetics.
What Did the Players Think?
The issue extended beyond just the outfits. Players felt there was little incentive to spend on the limited-time characters and costumes, particularly since the skins lacked the flair they were hoping for. The premium gacha skin for Asuka was especially disappointing, as it was too similar to her base model, failing to entice players.
Fans of *Goddess of Victory: NIKKE* appreciate the game for its bold anime aesthetics and engaging storylines. However, recent collaborations have been seen as diluting this core identity, leading players to question the value of these events.
While *NIKKE* has a robust foundation, the uninspired designs and the overall execution of the Evangelion event felt lackluster and drawn out. Shift Up has acknowledged the feedback and is committed to improving future events. Fans are hopeful that these promises will translate into meaningful changes.
You can explore *Neon Genesis Evangelion* and *Goddess of Victory: NIKKE* on the Google Play Store. Here's hoping Shift Up can rebound with exciting content in the upcoming months.
Before you go, don't miss our coverage on *Wuthering Waves'* Version 1.4 Update for Android.
