NetEase Games and Naked Rain Studio have revealed more of ANANTA, an ambitious free-to-play open-world RPG that combines a huge anime-style city with driving, martial arts combat, multiple playable characters and an impressive amount of freedom. Better still, players now know exactly when they’ll be able to jump in, with ANANTA launching worldwide on January 15, 2027.
Previously known as Project Mugen, ANANTA lets players explore massive urban environments filled with businesses, hidden alleyways, restaurants, arcades, cafés, gyms and other locations. Players aren’t limited to exploring on foot either, with cars, motorcycles, helicopters, yachts, subways and hang gliders among the different ways to travel. Certain characters can even swing freely between buildings, giving traversal a distinctly superhero-like feel.
The game will feature two major cities, including the previously revealed Nova City and the newly unveiled Chongxiao. Players will be able to switch between different characters and experience the world from completely different perspectives, taking on roles including an NCCA officer, hacker, delivery rider and content creator. More than 100 NPCs will also have their own stories and quests, with players able to build relationships and recruit new allies.
Combat focuses heavily on martial arts and making use of the environment. Players can dodge and counter attacks while turning ordinary objects around them into improvised weapons. Outside combat, ANANTA is designed to feel like a living urban playground, with activities including street racing alongside places such as cinemas, mahjong parlours, cat cafés, clothing stores and even open-air hot springs.
One of ANANTA’s more unusual ideas revolves around becoming an influencer. Its central premise is “Go Viral. Save the World,” with players building their reputation and social influence as they complete missions and deal with strange events happening throughout the cities. Increasing that influence can provide access to additional resources and unique perks, adding another progression system to the open-world experience.
ANANTA will be completely free-to-play when it launches worldwide on January 15, 2027. It’s currently confirmed for PC through Steam and its own client, PlayStation 5, iOS and Android. With its enormous cities, extensive traversal options, martial arts combat and GTA-like freedom wrapped in a colourful anime presentation, ANANTA could be one of 2027’s most interesting new open-world games.