After more than two years since its announcement, developer Key has launched a free demo for its all-ages romance visual novel anemoi. The demo, available in Japanese, covers the prologue and part of the common route. The full game is slated for release on Windows in January 2026.
Key, known for its emotional storytelling in visual novels, has made anemoi playable for the first time through a free demo downloadable from the game's official website. Announced over two years ago, the title centers on protagonist Mugi Hayakawa, who returns to the rural Masumi Town with his younger sister Rikka to unearth a time capsule buried a decade earlier. There, they encounter four girls—Spica Tsujikura, Aino Fusaba, Hiiro Awayuki, and Koyomi Shirato—who connect with the siblings' shared history.
The story features five romanceable characters, including Rikka, blending nostalgia and budding relationships. Development involves familiar Key talent, such as game director Kai from Summer Pockets and scenario writers Yu Nijima and Hasama. The name anemoi draws from Greek mythology's four wind gods—Boreas, Zephyrus, Notus, and Eurus—suggesting wind as a thematic element, reinforced by windmills in the artwork.
Currently limited to Japanese, the demo offers a preview ahead of the January 30, 2026, Windows launch. While no English version is confirmed, Key's past releases like Summer Pockets have appeared on Steam with localizations, hinting at potential international support. Pre-orders for anemoi have already exceeded those of Summer Pockets by over tenfold in their first two days, indicating strong anticipation among fans.