Pawprint Studio has launched a Global Closed Beta Test for Aniimo, its upcoming open-world creature-catching RPG, running from July 9 to July 25, 2026. The test, available on PC, iOS, and Android, introduces players to the fantasy world of Idyll, where they can explore, capture, and bond with over 200 unique creatures before the game’s full release in the third quarter of 2026.
The Mechanics of Creature-Catching and Interaction
Unlike traditional turn-based monster collectors, Aniimo features a real-time action combat system centered on the “Twining” mechanic. According to Pawprint Studio, Twining allows players to physically merge with their Aniimo. This transformation enables direct control of the creature, granting players unique traversal abilities like flying, swimming, or digging to access hidden areas of the Idyll map.
The capture system prioritizes environmental awareness. Players are encouraged to observe creature behavior rather than relying solely on combat stats. Tactics include luring targets into obstacles to stun them, waiting for them to sleep, or utilizing stealth to approach from behind. Pawprint Studio designed these interactions to make the game’s ecosystem feel responsive, with each of the 200 species possessing distinct personalities and habitats.
The “Twining” system in Aniimo is not limited to combat. By merging with specific creatures, players can bypass environmental puzzles by utilizing species-specific movement traits like climbing or high-jumping.
Social Sandbox and the Ark Hub
The latest update from the developers highlights “Ark,” a large floating city that serves as the game’s social hub. In this space, human players and Aniimo coexist, allowing for player-to-player trading, character customization, and communal activities. The hub also hosts specialized facilities such as the Nimbi Delivery service, fashion shops, and a Pet Park.
Pawprint Studio is emphasizing a “Homeland” system within the broader social framework. This feature enables players to engage in life simulation activities, such as planting crops and decorating their personal living spaces, which they can share with their captured Aniimo. Multiplayer functionality has been expanded for the beta, allowing users to complete shared challenges and trade creatures in real-time.
Platform Availability and Future Roadmap
While the current beta is restricted to PC and mobile platforms, the full release scheduled for Q3 2026 will be significantly broader. Pawprint Studio has confirmed that the final version will launch on Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, PC (Steam, Epic Games Store and Xbox), Mac, and mobile devices. Prospective players can currently add the title to their wishlist on major console and PC storefronts.
Pro Tip: Staying Updated
To track future testing phases or character reveals—such as the recently unveiled Saucite, Bubbeep, and various “Prismana Form” variants—the developer directs players to their official channels on X, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Discord.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When does the Aniimo Global Closed Beta take place? The test runs from July 9 to July 25, 2026.
- Can I play Aniimo on consoles? The full release in Q3 2026 will support Xbox Series X|S and PlayStation 5, though the current beta is limited to PC and mobile.
- What is the Twining system? It is a core mechanic that allows players to merge with their Aniimo to gain specific movement abilities and engage in real-time combat.
- How many creatures are in the beta? There are over 200 distinct Aniimo species available for discovery during the testing period.
Are you participating in the current beta test? Share your favorite Aniimo discovery or your thoughts on the Twining combat system in the comments below.
