| Feature | Shimeji (Java) | Desktop Goose | Wallpaper Engine (Steam) | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | High (Climbing, multiplying) | Medium (Dragging, honking) | Low (Mostly visual effects) | | Customization | Extreme (Draw your own) | Low (Mods limited) | High (Workshop support) | | Resource Usage | Low to Medium | Low | High (Uses GPU) | | Annoyance Factor | Optional (Can be chill) | High (Intentionally annoying) | None | | Price | Free | Free (Donation) | $3.99 |
As of 2024-2025, the community is moving away from pure Java. Two new trends are emerging: desktop pet shimeji
Unlike static widgets or generic pets like Microsoft Office’s "Clippy," a Shimeji has agency. It performs a randomized set of "behaviors" that mimic a living creature: | Feature | Shimeji (Java) | Desktop Goose
Because the community is massive, you can find almost any character. Here are the most popular categories: Here are the most popular categories:
