Aniimo, Pawprint Studio's free-to-play open-world creature RPG, launched globally on PC and consoles in September 2026. The official APAC launch time was September 16 at 10:00 a.m. UTC+8, while the Americas server opened on September 15 because of the time-zone difference.
The game is available on Windows PC, PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S, with Xbox Game Pass support. Its mobile version followed on September 23 for iOS and Android, extending the same creature-collecting adventure to phones and tablets.
What kind of game is Aniimo?
Aniimo combines open-world exploration, real-time combat and creature collection. Players take the role of a Pathfinder travelling through Idyll, where different species live in biomes shaped by their environments. Pawprint Studio says more than 200 Aniimo were available to discover at launch.
Creatures are not limited to passive team slots. Players can use their movement and combat abilities to solve environmental challenges, reach new areas and fight hostile opponents. Different combinations encourage experimentation instead of relying on one fixed party for every activity.
How the Twining system works
The game's signature mechanic is called Twining. It allows the Pathfinder to combine with an Aniimo and directly use that creature's abilities. A flying or agile companion may open a new traversal route, while a combat-focused Aniimo changes how the player approaches an encounter.
This system distinguishes Aniimo from games where collected creatures act only through menu commands. Players still build a roster, but they also experience the world through those companions and switch forms according to the obstacle in front of them.
Co-op, competitive modes and Homeland
Idyll can be explored with other players using co-op features and social tools. The game also includes competitive activities such as Diamond Egg Heist, where teams pursue objectives rather than simply battling in a traditional arena.
The Homeland system provides a quieter progression loop. Players can build and decorate a personal base, assign Aniimo to activities, grow resources and add attractions. It gives collected companions a role outside exploration and combat.
Download size and platform notes
Pawprint's launch notice recommended at least 40 GB of free space for the Windows client and installation on an SSD. Console pre-download guidance called for roughly 30–35 GB, with the PlayStation 5 version installed on the console's internal SSD.
Storage size and hardware requirements may change as the game receives updates. Players should use the official launch and pre-download notice for current requirements and avoid unofficial installers.
Is Aniimo free to play?
Yes. The base game launched as a free-to-play title, although optional purchases and platform-specific packs are available. Players should review the store description for their platform before buying a bundle, since a paid pre-order or collector pack is not required to access the free base game.
Sources: Pawprint Studio on Xbox Wire, the official Aniimo launch notice and developer letter.
