Short answer
Aniimo does not use a character-banner gacha system to obtain Aniimo, according to the executive producer’s explanation and launch reporting. Players find and catch Aniimo through gameplay.
That answer should not be expanded into “Aniimo has no monetization.” The game is free to play and the launch build sells cosmetics and bundles containing resources or convenience items.
Why older beta discussions can mislead
The official development letter documents substantial changes between beta and launch, including redesigning the Legendary acquisition process and removing random rune slots from carried-item training. A beta monetization critique is therefore not automatically an accurate description of the live build.
What we do not declare
This page does not issue a permanent pay-to-win verdict. That judgment depends on current store contents, progression balance and future updates. It answers the narrower, verifiable question: catching Aniimo is not organized around a character banner, while optional paid products still exist.