HoYoverse has announced that Petit Planet, its upcoming life simulation game, will launch its Stardrift Test closed beta on April 21, 2026. Selected players will gain early access across PC, iOS, and Android.
Registration is now live for players hoping to secure a spot in the test. Participation will be restricted to a limited number of applicants, with those chosen receiving access to a controlled build focused on testing core systems, performance, and gameplay balance.
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HoYoverse's First Life Simulation Title
This project marks a clear shift in direction for HoYoverse, which built its reputation on combat-heavy titles like Genshin Impact and Honkai: Star Rail. Petit Planet abandons those action-focused frameworks entirely, opting instead for a slower-paced simulation experience centered on daily routines and environmental management.
Players take on the role of a Planet Tender, tasked with cultivating and expanding their own planet within a galaxy network. The design prioritizes steady progression through exploration and relationship-building rather than combat encounters or skill-based challenges.
Core Mechanics and Daily Loops
Petit Planet's gameplay revolves around repeatable activities that drive both character advancement and planetary development. Farming, fishing, cooking, and resource collection form the backbone of the experience. Customization extends to home interiors and broader planetary aesthetics, giving players control over how their environment evolves.
Social systems are equally foundational. Players interact with neighbours through shared activities—cooking together, dancing, or simply spending time in communal areas. These relationships aren't cosmetic; they directly impact gameplay by altering environmental conditions and unlocking previously inaccessible zones or mechanics.
Starsea Voyages Connect the Galaxy
Movement between locations is handled through Starsea Voyages, a navigation system that uses a Starsea Map to link different islets and regions. This framework ties the game world together and pushes players toward exploration as a primary activity.
The Stardrift Test will feature upgraded Starsea Voyages, though specifics on what those improvements entail remain vague—likely refinements to traversal mechanics or map functionality. Players can bring neighbours along during these trips, introducing a cooperative layer to what might otherwise be solitary exploration.
Galactic Bazaar Serves as Social Hub
The beta also grants access to the Galactic Bazaar, a central gathering point where players encounter new characters and participate in group activities. These hubs function as both narrative anchors and practical spaces for progression, blending story beats with mechanical utility.
Additional neighbours will debut in this test phase, expanding the pool of available relationships and reinforcing the game's emphasis on community interaction over solo play.
From Trademark to Closed Beta
Petit Planet first appeared as a trademark filing in 2024, then received its official reveal in September 2025 with a trailer highlighting its cel-shaded art direction and initial character roster. The Stardrift Test represents the most significant public-facing milestone since that announcement, positioning the game closer to a full launch.
PC and mobile are confirmed platforms, with other options potentially joining the lineup during ongoing development. This closed beta doubles as a technical stress test, evaluating performance across devices while collecting player feedback on systems and usability. Make sure to check out more:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Petit Planet?
Petit Planet is HoYoverse's first life simulation game. It replaces combat with exploration, social interaction, and daily activities, casting players as Planet Tenders who manage their own planet within a connected galaxy.
When does the Petit Planet closed beta start?
The Stardrift Test closed beta begins April 21, 2026. Only players who register and are selected will receive access.
Which platforms will support the Petit Planet beta?
The closed beta runs on PC, iOS, and Android.
How can players sign up for the Petit Planet beta?
Registration is handled through HoYoverse's official beta sign-up. Spots are limited, and acceptance is not guaranteed.
How is Petit Planet different from Genshin Impact and Honkai: Star Rail?
Genshin Impact and Honkai: Star Rail are built around combat and progression grinds. Petit Planet drops those mechanics entirely in favor of life simulation, exploration, and social systems.
