HoYoverse Announces First Closed Beta for New Game 'Petit Planet'

HoYoverse, the developer behind Genshin Impact and Honkai: Star Rail, has officially announced the first closed beta for its new cosmic life simulation game, Petit Planet. The beta, titled the "Cosiness Test", is scheduled to begin on November 7, 2025. Global pre-registrations for the test are now open on the game's official website for PC and iOS players.

The new title marks a significant strategic shift for the studio, moving it away from its signature gacha-driven RPG formula and into the booming life-sim genre. Petit Planet is HoYoverse's first-ever entry into the life-sim genre, a free-to-play adventure focused on creativity and community rather than combat. 

This pivot follows the moderate commercial performance of 2024's Zenless Zone Zero. While ZZZ generated approximately $442.1 million in its first mobile launch year, this figure represented only 23% of Genshin Impact's record-breaking debut-year revenue.

What to Expect from the 'Cosiness Test'

The "Cosiness Test" will give participants their first look at the core gameplay, which tasks players with nurturing their own personal planet. A mysterious life force called "Luca" will dynamically shape the landscape as bonds with friends grow. 

The beta will include familiar activities like farming, fishing, mining, cooking, and crafting, all presented in HoYoverse’s distinct cel-shaded anime art style.

Key features available in the test include befriending "fuzzy Neighbours," embarking on "Starsea Voyages" to explore distant planets, and visiting the "Galactic Bazaar." This social hub will allow players to meet, chat, trade resources, and engage in co-op mini-games and rhythm challenges.

The game's development has been tracked for some time. The project was first registered for trademark in China under the name XinBuGuDi in February 2024, receiving a licence approval that July. 

The Petit Planet name emerged later when a US trademark was filed in October 2024. HoYoverse officially unveiled the title on September 25, 2025, with a reveal trailer showcasing its cosy cosmos.

Players interested in joining the "Cosiness Test" can sign up now by filling out a registration survey on the official Petit Planet website. HoYoverse stated participation is limited, and selection will be based on the survey. Aspiring testers should note this is a data-wipe test, meaning all progress will be deleted before the final launch. 

While HoYoverse has not yet confirmed an end date for the closed beta. As the "Cosiness Test" launches this November, HoYoverse is betting it can weave a new kind of stellar connection, one where players don't just save worlds but create them.