Onmyoji Arena is a free-to-play 5v5 mobile MOBA by NetEase, and this onmyoji arena beginner guide explains exactly what it is and how to start playing successfully. Set in a world inspired by Japanese folklore, the game combines strategic team fights with a rich roster of Shikigami, making it a standout choice for anyone browsing the best mobile games by genre.
What is Onmyoji Arena? A beginner guide to the mobile MOBA
Onmyoji Arena is a 5v5 mobile MOBA developed by NetEase. It features a Japanese folklore theme with stunning graphics and innovative game design. The game is available on iOS (requires iOS 12.0 or later on iPhone and iPadOS 12.0 or later on iPad) and Android. In addition to the standard 5v5 format, Onmyoji Arena also offers a 3v3v3 battle mode and a Battle Royale mode, providing a MOBA experience unlike any other.
Onmyoji Arena basic gameplay and your first steps
The core objective in Onmyoji Arena is to navigate a map with your team, defeat enemies, destroy turrets, and win the match. Your first steps begin after installation. You will be prompted to choose your server and region. Servers are divided into Asia (including Korea, Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, Japan, Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore, Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Southeast Asia) and World/Global (including North America, Europe, South America, and Others). World and Asia servers do not share data, and you can only select your server once, so choose carefully. After that, you pick your Onmyoji avatar from four options: Seimei, Kagura, Hiromasa, or Yao Bikuni. Once selected, the game starts with tutorial missions. Completing all of them is highly recommended because they cover every basic mechanic you need to carry on with the game.
Understanding the Onmyodo system
The Onmyodo system is a customizable, rune-like feature that lets you mix and match abilities for your Shikigami. It comes with four default sets: physical, magic, tank, and support. As your level increases, you unlock more slots to customize your Onmyodo to your liking. Slots unlock at levels 3, 5, 7, 9, and 12, with the final slot being a single, central slot unlocked at level 12.
Shikigami roles explained for new players
Shikigami are summoned spirits that serve and protect their master. In Onmyoji Arena, there are 81 available Shikigami divided into six roles: Samurai, Mage, Marksman, Ninja, Tank, and Support. Each Shikigami has four abilities and two general spells. What makes Onmyoji Arena different from other MOBAs is that the Shikigami are well-balanced, with power distributed evenly across the roster, yet each has unique individual skills. Satori is a Shikigami who can easily wipe a Shikigami in an instant if powered correctly. Ootengu has huge bursts and hitboxes, passive immunity, and a speed-up shield. Ebisu has easier healing support than shield support because they can automatically react to the damage done.
Essential tips and tricks for Onmyoji Arena beginners
Lane assignments matter. Samurais and Ninjas typically take the top lane or the jungle. Tanks are recommended for the top lane. The middle lane is normally for Mages, who can assist top and bottom lanes when needed. Don't stay too long helping others from the middle lane because it will leave your lane open to enemies. The bottom lane is for Marksmen and Support characters, though Mages with support abilities can also take it. Marksmen don't play well in the middle lane; keep them away from it. Keep an eye out for Ninjas in the bottom lane as they can easily ambush a Marksman. For farming coins, focus on daily activities like daily pacts, guild quests, battling area bosses, demon encounter bosses, and participating in Kirin hunts. Demon Encounters earn you coins depending on your damage contribution. The Traveling Merchant sometimes has coins for sale, but you have to spend Jades, which is another in-game currency that is hard to come by. Be wise with your spending and avoid splurging on unnecessary items. If you encounter issues and cannot log in, you can get help by sending a support ticket through the in-game support button or by emailing gameonmyoji@global.netease.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Onmyoji and Onmyoji Arena?
Onmyoji is a turn-based strategy game with PvP and PvE modes, playable on mobile and PC via Steam. Onmyoji Arena is its MOBA version, available only on mobile. Both games share the same Shikigami characters, but the gameplay is completely different.
How do I obtain new Shikigami?
You collect Summon Amulets and Coins through gameplay and use them to purchase Shikigami of your choice from the in-game shop.
Can I change my server after I select it?
No, you can only select your server and region once. You will not be able to change it after confirmation, so make sure you choose the correct one.
Is Onmyoji Arena pay-to-win?
No, the game is free-to-play and the Shikigami are well-balanced. Power is distributed evenly, so skill and strategy matter more than purchases.
What should I do if I have a technical issue?
Use the in-game support button to send a ticket. If you cannot log in to the game, email gameonmyoji@global.netease.com for assistance.
