ANANTA Hands-on Preview: Become an Influencer to Save the World

Following its appearance at Gamescom 2026 Opening Night Live, ANANTA (also known as Project Mugen) opened its doors for a hands-on preview, revealing new details about its world and gameplay loop. Developed by Naked Rain Studio, the free-to-play open-world RPG officially confirmed a global release date of January 15, 2027.

The game is slated for a global launch on January 15, 2027.

Becoming an Influencer

The core premise of ANANTA introduces a unique spin on the hero's journey: saving the world through social media clout. Players take on the role of the "Captain," tasked with rebuilding the collapsed "Countermeasure Bureau." To recruit eccentric former employees and manage various factions, the Captain must become a massive internet influencer, leveraging their viral reputation to fix anomalies around the city.

The protagonist alongside Taffy.

The Concrete Jungle of Xinqi

The game features diverse urban environments, primarily focusing on "Xinqi," a modern, bustling metropolis. Players can traverse this concrete jungle using various methods, including parkour, grappling hook swings, and driving vehicles. You can also play as different characters, each offering a unique perspective on city life. For instance, the patrol officer Rixi can search suspicious NPCs and escort criminals via police car, while Taffy navigates the streets on a motorcycle to complete deliveries.

Traversal includes web-like swinging through the towering metropolis.

Rixi can command a police cruiser while handling city patrols.

The Oriental Town of Chongxiao

The preview also showcased a second major region: "Chongxiao." Specifically highlighting Longqi Village, this area offers a stark contrast to Xinqi. It features traditional white-walled architecture, a peaceful rural atmosphere, and community-driven mini-games. This zone heavily features the new character Yinglong, a martial artist and temple manager trying to keep her chaotic sister out of trouble.

The tranquil, traditional town of Chongxiao provides a break from the busy city.

Yinglong in action.

Combat and Gacha Mechanics

Combat in ANANTA emphasizes environmental interactions, telekinesis, and parrying, leaning into impactful martial arts rather than just flashy particle effects. Additionally, the developers confirmed that characters will join the player's roster naturally through story progression, avoiding the traditional gacha systems seen in similar titles.

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