Version Overview
NTE Version 1.2 is expected to launch on July 2, 2026, running for 42 days across two banner phases of 21 days each. This major update introduces two brand-new S-Rank characters -- Light burst DPS Shinku and Spirit support healer Illica -- along with new amusement park map content, an expanded Bond system, Abyss updates, and more.
Banner Schedule
| Phase | Dates | Character | Rarity | Attribute | Role |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Phase 1 | July 2 - July 23 | Shinku | S-Rank | Light (Creation) | Burst Main DPS |
| Phase 2 | July 23 - Aug 13 | Illica | S-Rank | Spirit | Support/Healer |
> Note: Community speculation previously suggested Nixia might appear in 1.2, but leaks confirmed she has been delayed. 1.2 is confirmed as Shinku + Illica.
Shinku Deep Dive
Character Profile
- Attribute: Light
- Rarity: S-Rank
- Role: Burst Main DPS
- Nickname: Dragon Lady (based on her dragon-girl character design)
- Affiliation: CSU-2, Anomaly Containment Division Group 2
Kit Mechanics
Shinku's core mechanic revolves around the Yingxu system:
- Normal Attack: Fast-switching slash style similar to the protagonist
- Passive: Enhances Creation system reactions, but conflicts with the existing Creation team (Nanali, Xun, Jiuyuan, Light MC), requiring a new Yingxu Direct Damage team
- Ultimate: AoE multi-hit damage followed by a massive single-target finishing blow -- a classic burst rotation
- Yingxu Charging: Relies on Light-Spirit-Phase tri-attribute Resonance for rapid energy charging
Recommended Teams
Core Team: Shinku + Illica + Chaos/Hathor + Xiaozhi
| Slot | Character | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Main DPS | Shinku | Yingxu Ultimate burst damage |
| Healer/Buffer | Illica | Crit DMG bonus + Resonance amplification + Healing |
| Sub DPS | Chaos/Hathor | Phase attribute Resonance extension + Burst sub DPS |
| Flex | Xiaozhi | Accelerates Ultimate rotation + Supplemental damage |
Alternative: Players without a committed Creation team can use the Light MC, whose passive enhances Yingxu and provides instant Resonance.
Bond Reward
Shinku has an exclusive loungewear outfit obtainable for free at Bond Level 10. Start hoarding gifts early.
Illica Full Preview
Character Profile
- Attribute: Spirit
- Rarity: S-Rank
- Role: Support/Healer (dubbed must-pull support)
- Affiliation: CSU-2, Anomaly Containment Division Group 2
- Design: Ultra-cute sweet girl with a cross pendant and stethoscope, clearly signaling a healer role
Three Lambs Mechanic
Illica is accompanied by three lamb summons, each corresponding to a different function:
| Lamb | Feature | Suspected Function |
|---|---|---|
| Cute Lamb | Being petted, healing cross halo | Team healing/HP restore |
| Dark Lamb | Mischievous expression, crit DMG icon halo | Crit DMG bonus (benefits direct DPS units) |
| Sleepy Lamb | Resting on arm, unclear halo icon | Resonance boost (extra Resonance value) |
If the third lamb provides Resonance amplification, it would solve the competition between Shinku and Nanali over Light MC / Resonance resources, allowing Creation and Yingxu teams to coexist.
Core Value
- Crit DMG bonus directly benefits direct-damage DPS like Shinku
- Resonance amplification supports the Yingxu system's energy needs
- Healing provides team survivability
- Hailed by the community as NTE's first must-pull support
New Content
1. Amusement Park Map Expansion
- New amusement park area fast-travel nodes added in 1.2
- Improved dynamic environmental rendering for rain and dusk
- Timed for summer break to attract new players
2. Expanded Bond System
- Illica and Shinku receive individual date side-story quests
- Unlocks exclusive voice lines and illustration easter eggs
3. Abyss Dungeon Updates
- New Curse-attribute exclusive Abyss floors
- Adapted for new version characters and mechanics
4. Gacha Adjustments
- Limited banner: Soft pity starts at 70 pulls
- Hard pity: 90 pulls for guaranteed featured character
- Weapon banner pity lowered accordingly
Pull Recommendations
| Player Type | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| New players needing a main DPS | Prioritize Shinku for faster early-game progression |
| Players with mature teams | Watch Illica -- supports have broader compatibility and longer meta relevance |
| Light team enthusiasts | Shinku is a must-pull as the potential Light DPS core |
| Resource-limited players | Wait for the official preview livestream to confirm kits; Illica's Phase 2 timing gives extra saving time |
Resource Estimates
| Type | Pulls Available Before 1.2 |
|---|---|
| F2P Players | ~26 pulls |
| Monthly Pass Players | ~41 pulls |
> The monthly shop refreshes on July 1, allowing exchange for 5 limited pulls + 5 standard pulls + 20 weapon pulls. Save exchange materials in advance.


