I don't mean that the game is unwinnable (to the extent that such games are winnable) without spending money. But the core mechanic is swapping between different characters for combos and synergies. You're severely hampered without paying to get other characters and increase your weapons.

I remember getting Hu Tao when she was just released. She was (and I guess still is?) one of the best characters. But I didn't have the roster to really play her to her full potential. So it's back to the loot crates to try and pull other characters that synergize with her and help her reach her potential.