With Over 200 Aniimo to Discover, the Free-to-Play, Creature-Catching Open-World RPG Also Launches on Mobile on September 23
Singapore — September 16, 2026 – Today, Pawprint Studio, the ambitious development studio and publisher backed by FunPlus, released the free-to-play, creature-catching open-world RPG Aniimo on PlayStation 5, XBOX Series X|S, and PC via Steam and Epic Games Store and on aniimo.com. Aniimo will launch on mobile on iOS and Android next week on September 23, and for Mac at a later date.
Watch the Aniimo launch trailer here:
Aniimo also joins XBOX Game Pass today on Cloud, Console, and PC across Game Pass Ultimate, Premium, Essential, and PC Game Pass tiers. Game Pass subscribers can unlock an exclusive monthly Aniimo reward pack, containing 1 Aniipod Ultra, plus 15 Growth Flowers and 300 Glimmer.
In Aniimo, players, known as Pathfinders, will enjoy a groundbreaking game where they can collect and merge (through the unique Twining mechanic) with magical creatures called Aniimo throughout the world of Idyll to explore uncharted landscapes, solve ancient mysteries, and master dynamic gameplay.
Discover New Companions
- At launch, players will be able to discover, meet, and collect more than 200 Aniimo, including different rarities and forms waiting to be found depending on systems including varying weather and biomes.
- Among the newest additions are Squarrel and its evolution, Squashel. This energetic squirrel-like Aniimo rolls down hillsides while clutching its tail, and attacks using fast-paced combo mechanics centered around its powerful tail abilities. Another Aniimo addition is the lively and enthusiastic Sparkelf.
- The merging of players and their Aniimo, known as Twining, allows players to take control of any Aniimo on their roster, gaining access to new abilities for combat, traversal, puzzle solving, and more, unlocking new ways to play as they see and explore Idyll through the unique lens of each Aniimo.
Explore Idyll
- The interactive and expansive open-world of Idyll is inhabited by the Aniimo, providing multiple areas and ecosystems for Aniimo to grow and evolve. Players will find quests, activities, puzzles, mysteries, and much more on their journeys.
- Meanwhile, the Homeland system offers each Pathfinder their own slice of Idyll where they can design and decorate their home to their preferences, farm and harvest with their Aniimo, and treat Aniimo to fun activities while working together to achieve their goals.
Multiplayer
- Co-Op minded players will have access to features including the Horn to call for help from friends and strangers in the open world, the Flute to invite others to a location or discover players nearby, and the Come to Me ability which instantly calls one’s allies to their location. Additionally, players can choose to follow another player who leads them around Idyll.
- Pathfinders can also play PvP modes like Egg Heist, where teams of players are pitted against one another to earn and escape with valuable resources.
“The Aniimo team has worked diligently to finally bring the dreams of ourselves and our players to reality,” said Janson Zhang, Lead Game Designer, Pawprint Studio. “Through their efforts and immense support from Pathfinders around the globe, the world of Aniimo is now ready for you to discover with us, and we can’t wait to go on this journey together!”
About Pawprint Studio
Pawprint Studio is a development studio and publishing label backed by FunPlus, focused on building cross-platform new IP that will push the boundaries of graphics and technology. Its first announced project is a free-to-play open world RPG called Aniimo.
About FunPlus
FunPlus is a global creator of interactive entertainment experiences powered by creative innovation and cutting-edge technology. Founded in 2010, FunPlus has grown to become one of the largest privately held gaming companies with a robust portfolio of established titles. FunPlus invests in high-potential teams pushing the boundaries of original IP to craft pioneering cross–platform experiences that capture new audiences in today’s competitive market. These include Pawprint Studio and their first project, Aniimo, and Studio Ellipsis, the boutique studio behind Nightholme and home to the company’s IP development team.
