Revision 1

Ananta has not yet launched globally. This page includes details from official posts, developer interviews, hands-on previews, and the January 2026 Closed Beta Test as of February 22, 2026.

Overview

Nova City is packed with interactive mini-games and casual activities scattered across its districts. These range from structured arcade-style challenges to ambient environmental interactions. They are part of a broader design philosophy where players can, as the developers put it, "enjoy life in the city" rather than focusing exclusively on combat and the main story. Mini-games are unlocked by engaging with map hotspots throughout the city.

Confirmed mini-games

The following structured mini-games have been shown in trailers, press demos, or the January 2026 Closed Beta Test:

• Claw machine (UFO catcher): Classic arcade claw game found at various locations around the city. Players control the claw to grab prizes.

• Darts: A darts throwing mini-game, likely found in bars or recreational areas.

• Slap contest: A competitive slap challenge where timing and input determine the outcome.

• Percussion duel: A rhythm-based drumming mini-game. Players follow beat patterns in a musical face-off.

• Basketball courts: Interactive basketball hoops scattered across the city where players can shoot hoops.

Lifestyle interactions

Beyond the structured mini-games with explicit win/lose conditions, Nova City offers a range of casual environmental interactions that add texture to the open world:

• Petting cats in parks and public areas

• Snooping on NPCs' phone screens (yes, really)

• Sitting on benches, leaning against railings, and other contextual idle animations

• Interacting with street vendors and shop fronts

These smaller touches do not have dedicated gameplay loops, but they contribute to the sense of being a resident of the city rather than just a player passing through. The developer has emphasized that these interactions exist to make Nova City feel lived-in.

Design philosophy

The abundance of mini-games and lifestyle activities ties directly into Ananta's identity as a game about urban life. Producer Ash Qi has spoken in multiple interviews about wanting the city to offer more than just missions and fights. The day-night cycle and NPC daily schedules mean that different activities may be available at different times of day, though specific time-locked mini-game availability has not been confirmed.

For players coming from games like Yakuza (Like a Dragon), the mini-game density in Nova City will feel familiar. The key difference is scale: Ananta's city is roughly the size of Manhattan, so activities are spread across a much larger play space rather than concentrated in a few city blocks.

Relationship to other systems

Some mini-games and activities may connect to the reputation system, where consistent engagement with city life could influence how NPCs perceive the player. The in-game social media mechanic could also play a role, with certain activities feeding into the player's public persona. These connections have been hinted at in interviews but not fully detailed.

Sources

• Icy Veins, TGS 2025 interview details (accessed February 22, 2026)

• MMORPG.com, Developer interview (accessed February 22, 2026)

• Noobfeed, Ananta redefines freedom (accessed February 22, 2026)

• Official gameplay trailer post (accessed February 22, 2026)