In November, HoYoverse launched closed beta testing for its upcoming mobile game, Petit Planet. The closed beta was available for Android, iOS and PC. Though other platforms haven’t been announced yet, HoYoverse appears to be working on further cross-platform integrations.
This also marks HoYoverse’s first venture into the cozy game genre. Undoubtedly, players will draw comparisons (and potential controversies) between this title and Nintendo’s Animal Crossing. However, there are enough differences in the story, gameplay mechanics, and art style that make Petit Planet more than a mere clone.
The Setting
Petit Planet entrusts players with a new planet – or Planette – to call their own. The goal is to nurture an uninhabited planet, bringing about new wildlife like bugs, fish, and plants. By interacting with the planet and its inhabitants, you gain Luca. Luca represents the planet’s vitality, so the more Luca you gain, the more your planet grows.
From there, players can catch bugs and fish, explore the beach, harvest crops, and decorate. The player avatar is fairly customizable, but the true personalization lies in the outfits. Neighbors will give you outfit pieces as you build their relationships.
Your three travel guides are Mobai, Glenn, and Esassani. Mobai acts as the leader, prompting you through the tutorial stage and introducing you to your Planette. Glenn is the shopkeeper and he’s the cutest character. Esassani is your driver because, yes, this game has cars.
The Gameplay
If you’ve played a HoYoverse game, then you already know the basics. The biggest difference with Petit Planet is how you interact with the world. Actions like fishing and bug catching have a stamina system that’s linked to the in-game day/night cycle. Each successful catch eats at your stamina. Once drained, you’re done for the day.
As you progress, your Planette will welcome more visitors and inhabitants. The first to appear is Yunguo, one of Mobai’s family members. She loves farming, so she introduces you to the harvesting mechanic.
Progressing further, players will unlock new tools, decor, and planet-shaping abilities. You’ll be able to climb cliffs, paint grass, and go on Starsea Voyages with your favorite Neighbors (yes, this is where the car comes in).
Interestingly, the game aims to excel in social gaming through the Galactic Bazaar. This area is designed for multiplayer mode, allowing players to chat over a cup of coffee and participate in rhythm mini-games. The Galactic Bazaar has a lot of potential, as many cozy games lack this type of gameplay engagement, allowing friends to not only share their creations but truly play the game together.
However, there’s plenty to do as a single player. The game aims to be a sandbox, boasting customization options for your Planette’s landscape, outside decor, home decor, structures like stairs and bridges, and player character.
Final Thoughts
Petit Planet promises to bring a comprehensive free-to-play cozy game to the HoYoverse audience. In doing so, HoYoverse follows its predecessors like Minecraft and Stardew Valley to lower the barrier for entry into well-made, immersive cozy gaming. Instead of being a copy, it feels like an homage to the essence of Animal Crossing and asks the question, “What else can I do?”
Petit Planet will be free-to-play and available on Android, iOS and PC. Currently, there is no official release date. However, pre-registration is live on the official Petit Planet website. Dedicated fans are also encouraged to apply for the Petit Planet Creator Club.
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