Star Resonance: The Spiritual Successor to Blue Protocol Is Here

Last year brought the crushing news that Blue Protocol — my most anticipated F2P MMORPG at the time — was canceled. It never saw a global launch, and the Japanese servers were shut down earlier this year. Facing financial difficulties, Amazon Games pulled the plug before the game ever had a real chance in the West.

Now in 2025, a new title has stepped into the spotlight: Star Resonance, which recently entered limited beta testing in China. So, what is Star Resonance exactly? In short, it’s Blue Protocol reborn under a new name. This time, it’s developed by Tencent and optimized for mobile, but it also includes a PC client.

Although I was excited to jump in using a VPN, the language barrier kept me from fully experiencing it firsthand—so I spent hours watching gameplay footage instead. And honestly? I’m impressed… but also cautiously bracing for another letdown.

Star Resonance Offers a Gorgeous Open World MMORPG Experience

Star Resonance delivers breathtaking visuals, allowing players to jump, glide, and explore a vibrant anime-style open world. It genuinely feels like a “proper” MMORPG—zones are filled with other players actively running, battling mobs, and completing quests together.

The next closed beta test for Star Resonance is scheduled for April 24, 2025.

⬇️ Recruitment is LIVE ⬇️
pic.twitter.com/rtyNbzaa4b
— Star Resonance Database (@StarResonanceDB), April 8, 2025

Social mechanics also play a big role—guilds, emotes, and even fishing are part of the experience. And unlike many mobile MMORPGs, Star Resonance doesn’t limit your playtime with stamina or energy systems. You can grind as much as you want, whether it’s in dungeons or taking down world bosses.

Combat-wise, Star Resonance blends action gameplay with tab-targeting—a hybrid system that works surprisingly well. There are seven available classes, each with their own specializations, and dungeon combat feels tight, polished, and satisfying.

As for monetization, the game features cosmetic gachas, daily login rewards, and monthly passes. While there doesn’t appear to be blatant pay-to-win mechanics, some conveniences—like class unlocks—are tied to premium currency.

Currently, Star Resonance is confirmed only for Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Macau. But many players, myself included, are hopeful it will eventually come to the West. I only got to experience Blue Protocol in English during a previous closed test—and I truly enjoyed it.

So once again, I find myself hopeful… and preparing to be disappointed.