When can we get our hands on Ananta? The groundbreaking influence of Hoyoverse continues to resonate throughout the gaming world, inspiring developers to create rich open-world experiences with engaging combat and deep mechanics. NetEase Games is the latest to step into this exciting genre with Ananta, an “urban open-world RPG” being developed by their talented internal studio, Naked Rain.
Originally known as Project Mugen, Ananta is an ambitious fusion. Imagine the vibrant open-world exploration of Genshin Impact, the stylistic charm and social elements of Persona, the web-slinging freedom of Spider-Man, and the dynamic city interaction of Grand Theft Auto. This isn’t just a simple blend of big-name titles; NetEase is packing Ananta with innovative features that truly make it stand out. If you’re eager to hit the neon-lit streets of this intriguing new game, here’s all the latest information on the Ananta release date and more.
Ananta Release Date Estimate
While an official launch window remains unconfirmed, we anticipate the Ananta release date to fall sometime in 2026. It’s highly probable that developer Naked Rain will conduct multiple beta tests to fine-tune the experience before the full game is released.
Ananta is slated for release on PC via its own dedicated launcher, as well as PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, iOS, and Android. Further platform announcements are expected in the future. Global pre-registration is currently available through the official website.
Ananta Gameplay
At the heart of Ananta’s experience is its focus on mobility and seamlessly navigating the expansive cityscape using the innovative ‘3C System.’ This system encompasses various movement methods designed to let you explore every corner of the urban environment, from bustling streets to towering skyscrapers and even aerial spaces.
Though the development team has been light on specifics regarding the ‘3C System,’ we’ve seen glimpses of exhilarating traversal, including Spider-Man-esque grappling that lets you swing fluidly between cranes and buildings. The game also features brief looks at swimming, motorbike rides, and driving a fully physics-enabled jeep through the streets.
This dynamic physics system extends beyond vehicles and movement; it applies to environmental objects too. The developers state that “almost any object you can see” can be interacted with. Early footage shows barrels scattering when hit, signs toppling, and scaffolding breaking apart realistically. This echoes the interactive combat and physics of games like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, but reimagined within a vibrant urban backdrop.
As you delve into the city, you’ll discover opportunities to peer into buildings, engage in mini-games like claw machines and darts, capture picturesque moments, and even encounter adorable furry companions such as cats. This blend of exploration and engaging side activities strongly evokes the feeling of a Persona game, particularly Persona 5 Royal, with its distinct, activity-rich districts.
The developers have indicated that these locations are designed for replayability. NetEase Games shared, “we wanted to create a world that players could relate to, yet find enough mysteries to keep them coming back. The city is alive, and every player will have their unique journey through it.” Given its fully free-to-play nature, akin to Hoyoverse’s titles, it’s highly likely Ananta will operate as a live-service game, with ongoing content.
Currently, eight playable characters have been revealed, with developers confirming more additions in future updates. While NetEase hasn’t yet specified if Ananta will adopt a gacha game model with limited-time banners, such a system would undoubtedly allow for a continuous expansion of its character roster.
The most recent gameplay trailer magnificently showcases the sheer scale of Ananta’s world. We witness high-speed car chases in a sleek red vehicle and graceful motorbike rides through cherry blossom-lined parks. However, the trailer also highlights extensive on-foot exploration, guiding us through detailed city streets, cozy bookshops, charming restaurants, serene beaches, and even vibrant musical concerts.
Combat is also featured prominently. We see intense skirmishes against masked adversaries, including a dynamic fight in the back of a moving container and a brawl in an abandoned parking garage where an opponent is dramatically launched into an open dumpster. Your arsenal isn’t limited to fisticuffs; characters wield rackets, axes, various firearms, rocket launchers, flamethrowers, grenades, and more.
Our main character appears to utilize a web-like ability for agile city traversal, and in stealth-focused missions, it can be used to gain a tactical advantage over unsuspecting foes, perhaps for intel gathering or photography. The ability to switch between characters on the fly is a key mechanic. If a mission takes an unexpected turn, you can instantly swap to another Esper to provide support, whether it’s sniping enemies from a distance or deploying a reconnaissance drone.
Ananta Multiplayer
While Ananta will support up to four players online, at its core, it remains a strong single-player experience. Lead producer Ash Qi clarified this, stating that he “hopes that players can enjoy the game with their friends online, just like you can play Chinese mahjong with AI or with your friends in real life.” This suggests a cooperative, rather than purely competitive, multiplayer aspect.
Ananta Story
Ananta plunges players into a world mirroring our own, where “urban legends become reality and humans coexist with the supernatural.” You take on the role of Esper, an elite investigator and a powerful individual known as the “Infinite Trigger.” Your journey begins in Nova Inception Urbs, the game’s initial sprawling city, where you’ll confront strange anomalies and supernatural threats that destabilize this supposed “urban paradise,” all while striving to recover your own fragmented memories.
As you explore, you’ll forge alliances with other Espers, each possessing unique backstories that unravel as you work together to combat the Chaos endangering humanity. The game promises multiple cities inspired by diverse European and American cultures, which are expected to become accessible in future updates.
That wraps up everything we currently know about the anticipated Ananta release date. This title has a strong potential to earn a spot on the lists of top RPG games once it arrives. While you await its launch, make sure to check out some of the biggest upcoming PC games to keep an eye on!