In a distinctly Japanese approach, FuRyu has revealed that participants for the upcoming closed beta of its anime-inspired liminal-space shooter, ANOMALITH, will be chosen via a lottery system. Enthusiasts aiming to secure an invitation must use Windows (Steam) and join the official Discord server, where applications will be accepted from 7 PM JST on June 12 through 11:59 PM on June 16. The beta test itself is slated to run from 12 AM June 19 to 9:59 AM JST on June 26.
FuRyu has stated that data gathered during the closed beta will be instrumental in refining the final product, alongside the release of a complimentary demo version planned for early October—just weeks ahead of the full launch. To facilitate this, the company urges all beta participants to submit their feedback by 11:59 PM JST on June 28.
Both the closed beta and the free trial edition emerge as a reaction to feedback suggesting that FuRyu games often prioritize art and narrative over gameplay mechanics. Among Japanese gaming circles, the phrase “It’s a FuRyu game, though” (JP: でもフリューだしな) has become a common refrain, as recent titles like 2024’s magic action RPG Reynatis and 2025’s school life RPG Varlet generated hype before facing mixed receptions from critics and players.
Given that ANOMALITH is a third-person shooter—a genre FuRyu has limited experience with—the developers addressed this concern shortly after the game’s official announcement in May. While exclusive pre-release playtests might generate positive press, they recognized that the most effective way to reassure players is by offering a free demo. Notably, FuRyu has permitted live streams and video uploads of the closed beta content.
ANOMALITH unfolds in an alternate iteration of Showa-era Japan, where hazardous phenomena known as Anomaly Zones manifest throughout the nation. Following the disappearance of her closest friend, Arisa Kato, within one such zone, the protagonist Reona Minazuki joins the Anomaly Zone Countermeasures Office as a Diver. On her inaugural dive into an Anomaly Zone, her companions fall prey to creatures dubbed Anomalies, while she awakens to an unusual power. Empowered by this newfound strength, Reona is determined to locate Arisa and unravel the mysteries of the Anomaly Zones and her own abilities.
The gameplay loop draws inspiration from extraction shooters, tasking players with entering Anomaly Zones to collect valuable items, weapons, and gear before extracting them. Despite scarce ammunition and limited inventory space, Reona wields multiple ranged weapons and Anomalization Skills to combat Anomalies—all of which can be enhanced using items acquired from each run.
ANOMALITH is scheduled to launch on October 28 for Windows (Steam), PlayStation 5, and Nintendo Switch 2. A free demo is set to become available in early October across all supported platforms.