Aniimo: Free Pokemon-like open-world game launches on Steam

Pawprint Studios released Aniimo on Steam. The free-to-play PC game lets players throw Aniipods to capture companion creatures, build a traveling team of four and fight hostile wildlife while following a narrative that centers on an ancient mystery.

The developer designed a large, open map with few hard barriers. Exploration and story objectives drive progression rather than ranked trainer battles or gym systems common in creature-collection titles.

Core systems include combat and companion management. Encounters with hostile creatures are tied to the game’s mystery-driven objectives and to areas players must explore to advance the story.

Early previews highlighted the game’s mix of creature companion mechanics and open-world exploration, noting influences from Pokemon, Animal Crossing and Breath of the Wild while describing a distinct structure and progression.

Aniimo is distributed as a free-to-play title. Observers have raised questions about potential microtransactions and in-game purchases that could affect progression. Pawprint Studios has not provided details on a monetization plan beyond the free base release and has not announced paid expansions.

The game is available now on Steam for PC users to download.