Competitive Shogi Game 'KIOU' Launches on Google Play Store June 22
The move to the Google Play Store removes a friction point for Android users, potentially expanding the player base for a game that already supports cross-platform play across Android, iOS, and PC.
Key Facts
- The Google Play Store version of competitive shogi game 'KIOU' releases on Monday, June 22, 2026.
- The Android version was previously only available via the official website, making installation and updates less convenient.
- The game supports cross-platform play across Android, iOS, and PC.
- The shogi AI in the game was created by professional player Hiroki Tani (5-dan) and supports the next move during matches.
- Match modes include online, rank, casual, and CPU matches, with time settings like the Fischer rule, 3-minute sudden death, and 10-second shogi.
Reporting from 2 sources: 4Gamer.net, ASCII.jp.
Neconome Co., Ltd. announced that the Google Play Store version of its competitive shogi game 'KIOU' will release on Monday, June 22, 2026. Previously available only via the official website for Android, the game will now be easier to install and update. The iOS version is on the App Store, and the PC version is on Steam.
Neconome Co., Ltd. will release the Google Play Store version of its competitive shogi game 'KIOU' on Monday, June 22, 2026. The Android version was previously distributed only via the official website, which made installation and updates less convenient. The Google Play Store distribution will allow Android users to install and update the game more easily, joining the iOS version already available on the App Store and the PC version on Steam.
The game features authentic shogi rules with a match system accessible to beginners and dan holders alike. It includes a shogi AI created by professional player Hiroki Tani (5-dan) that supports the next move during matches. Multiple match modes are available, including online, rank, casual, and CPU matches, with time settings such as the Fischer rule used in the professional tournament 'ABEMA Tournament', 3-minute sudden death, and 10-second shogi. The game also offers voice performances by a cast of voice actors, a likability system with characters, strategy effects, and cherry blossom animations when pieces promote.
Synthesized by Yomimono from the 2 cited sources below, including Japanese-language reporting where cited, then editorially reviewed before publishing.