NTE's monetization is moderate and player-friendly for a gacha game — it is NOT pay-to-win.
F2P-Friendly Features:
- 470+ free pulls at launch, enough to build a strong roster
- Character banner has no 50/50 — averages 53.5 pulls per featured character, far better than similar games
- Weapons are NOT gacha-locked — obtainable from world bosses, weekly bosses, and events for free
- Random substats removed entirely — no RNG in equipment upgrading
- Monthly pass players can easily collect all characters
Monetization Points:
- Character gacha (Ring Stones / Fons)
- Arc Disc banner (Triple Keys, 75% off-rate is the main controversy)
- Cosmetics/outfits
- Monthly pass and battle pass (best value)
Compared to Similar Games:
- More generous than Genshin Impact: no 50/50 on characters, free weapons, no random substats
- More generous than Wuthering Waves: better launch rewards
- Overall restrained monetization — industry analysts even worry that "whales can't find enough to spend on"
Bottom Line: NTE is not pay-to-win. F2P players can enjoy all content; spending mainly accelerates character collection and cosmetics. Recommended: monthly pass + free rewards provide an excellent experience.