Pokémon Company Finally Breaks Silence on Palworld Controversy

Palworld has been an unmitigated success with the game selling over 8,000,000 copies in less than 6 days and rave reviews from gamers and enthusiasts who love the silly nature of the game and the ability to use guns and whatnot.

But, the game has not been without controversy and one company in the middle of the tension has spoken out and has promised an investigation. 

The Pokemon company in a statement.said, "We intend to investigate and take appropriate measures to address any acts that infringe on intellectual property rights related to the Pokémon."

One of the biggest controversies around Palworld has been what people have called worrying similarities to Pokémon in the design of the game's 'Pals'. In Palworld, you have to survive the harsh conditions, gather resources, build a base and ensure you make it day by day. To do this, you can employ the help of Pals who are creatures you can weaken and capture in "Pal Spheres." 

This has seen a lot of people say the concept of the Pals are much like Pokemon and could constitute an infringement of Pokémon's IP. 

So far, Nintendo, publishers of Pokémon, have been silent, while Pocket Pair, the Japanese outfit who developed Palworld have stated that the game is a lot more like Ark: Survival Evolved from which they say they got a lot of inspiration from. 

While the gameplay of Palworld is certainly different from Pokémon (you can equip your pals with guns), there is enough similarity in the designs to raise a red flag. 

The Pokemon Company's statement went on to say, "We have received many inquiries regarding another company’s game released in January 2024,

"We have not granted any permission for the use of Pokémon intellectual property or assets in that game. We intend to investigate and take appropriate measures to address any acts that infringe on intellectual property rights related to the Pokémon. We will continue to cherish and nurture each and every Pokémon and its world, and work to bring the world together through Pokémon in the future."

Nintendo are also the company behind the Super Smash Bros. series and they are notorious for how jealously they guard their IP. This means even the hint of an infringment could really spell trouble for the good folk at Pocket Pair.

The story is still developing...