Fans of creature-collecting games have something fresh to look forward to. Aniimo, a new free-to-play open world game with strong Pokémon and Palworld vibes, was officially revealed during the Xbox Games Showcase 2025. Launching in 2026 for PC, mobile, and Xbox Series X/S, Aniimo aims to blend monster-catching mechanics with deep exploration, creature fusion, and real-time battles.
Aniimo Stands Out in a Packed Showcase
The Xbox Games Showcase was packed with major announcements. From Grounded 2 by Obsidian Entertainment to the surprise Final Fantasy 16 drop for Xbox and the reveal of Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, the event didn’t hold back. Yet, amid the blockbusters, Aniimo quietly stole the spotlight for fans of the monster-catching genre.
The game introduces players to a colorful world filled with magical creatures called Aniimo. Much like in Pokémon and Palworld, you’ll catch, train, and battle alongside your creature companions — but this game takes it a step further with a unique mechanic called Twining.
Twining: Merge With Your Aniimo
In a twist that sets it apart, Aniimo allows players to merge with their creatures, unlocking powerful abilities and new forms. This fusion system, or “Twining,” creates a deeper bond between trainer and creature and adds a tactical layer to exploration and combat.
Creatures in this game can also evolve, and their abilities help players unlock new areas and secrets across the game’s open world.
Free-to-Play With a Beta Coming Soon
This game is set to launch as a free-to-play title across PC, mobile, and Xbox in 2026. Players interested in getting early access can sign up for a beta test coming later this summer (for PC players).
Whether you’re a longtime Pokémon fan or intrigued by the survival aspects of Palworld, Aniimo is shaping up to be a must-play for anyone who loves immersive creature-based adventures.
👉 Watch the trailer here: Xbox Games Showcase – Aniimo Reveal