Aniimo Monetization Explained: Why Developer Pawprint Studio Dropped Gacha for Full Launch

Developer Pawprint Studio has confirmed that Aniimo is not a gacha game for its full launch. The creature-capturing open world game drew comparisons to Genshin Impact, Infinity Nikki, and Pokemon during its testing phase. Despite featuring numerous in-game currencies and menus, Aniimo does not use standard banner systems or random-odds mechanics to lock creatures, equipment, or eggs behind random pulls.

Confusion over the monetization model stemmed from the game final beta, which featured an event called Rift Exploration. The rifts operated like a banner by requiring a premium currency to chase a Legendary Aniimo with a very low capture rate and a pity system. Beta testers and prospective players strongly criticized the system, noting that the repetitive rifts contradicted previous developer promises that Aniimo would not feature gacha mechanics. Pawprint Studio replaced the Rift Exploration system with a token collection system for the full release.

As a free-to-play live service game, Aniimo still utilizes alternative monetization methods. Players can purchase Lumin Crystals with real money to spend in a cosmetics shop for character and creature outfits. The store also offers bundles containing Aniipods, profile backgrounds, stat alterations, and guaranteed rare creature variants, though some items remain obtainable through free in-game currencies like Glimmer and Credits. Additionally, the game features a battle pass titled the Companion Handbook, which includes a free track alongside two paid premium tiers offering extra rewards, cosmetics, and progression boosts.

Players acquire standard Aniimo primarily through exploration by throwing Aniipods at creatures in the open world, during Alpha and Omega battles, or at activated Bloom spots. Additional acquisition methods include hatching eggs of varying rarities, completing in-game events, progressing through the battle pass, or playing the game normally. Legendary Aniimo are obtained by collecting unique tokens, completing a specific story sequence, and using a special Aniipod for a guaranteed capture.