The competitive shogi game KIOU is available on iOS, Android, and PC, with a Google Play Store release scheduled for June 22, 2026.
Nekonome Co., Ltd. released the competitive shogi game KIOU on June 12, 2026 for iOS and Android, followed by a Steam version on June 14. The game is free-to-play with optional in-app purchases. It features the KIOU AI, created by professional shogi player Hiroki Taniai 5-dan, which suggests moves during matches. Players can choose from online, ranked, casual, and CPU battle modes, with time settings including the Fischer rule, 3-minute sudden death, and 10-second shogi. The game also includes a cast of characters with voice acting, an affection system, and effects for strategies. A monthly subscription for AI analysis is available.
Initially, the Android version was distributed only as an APK file from the official website, with a Google Play release planned later. On June 19, 2026, Nekonome announced that the Google Play Store version would release on Monday, June 22, 2026. This move 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. The iOS version is on the App Store, and the PC version is on Steam.
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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.
Nekonome Co., Ltd. released the competitive shogi game KIOU on June 12, 2026 for iOS and Android, followed by a Steam (PC) version on June 14. The game is free-to-play with optional in-app purchases. It features the KIOU AI, created by professional shogi player Hiroki Taniai 5-dan, which suggests moves during matches. Players can choose from online, ranked, casual, and CPU battle modes, with time settings including the Fischer rule, 3-minute sudden death, and 10-second shogi. The game also includes a cast of characters with voice acting, an affection system, and effects for strategies. The Android version is currently distributed as an APK file from the official website, with a Google Play release planned later. A monthly subscription for AI analysis is available. The game aims to appeal to both beginners and advanced players.