Palworld, a standout title in 2024 alongside other major releases like Elden Ring, Helldivers II, Black Myth: Wukong, and Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, captured significant attention due to its striking resemblance to Nintendo’s Pokémon franchise. Given Nintendo’s history, it was only a matter of time before they took legal action. In September 2024, Nintendo sued Palworld for infringing on three of its patents, seeking damages. Now, as the two-year legal battle approaches its conclusion, it appears Nintendo has little chance of winning and securing a substantial financial victory against Pocketpair for their game, Palworld.
Early in 2024, a game emerged on Steam’s Early Access, quickly becoming one of the most played titles in history. This game was Palworld, which launched in January 2024 and achieved phenomenal success, selling 1 million copies in 8 hours, 5 million in 3 days, and 7 million in a single week. To date, Palworld has surpassed 25 million copies sold on Steam. Upon its release, Palworld was immediately associated with the popular Pokémon franchise, a connection that was evident due to the clear inspiration and near-copying of the Pokémon formula.
Nintendo’s Lawsuit Against Pocketpair for Palworld Nears Its End with Little Chance of Victory
Despite their similarities, there are key differences between Palworld and Pokémon. Pokémon is a JRPG focused on capturing creatures across its world, engaging in turn-based combat, and challenging gym leaders to earn badges and become the top trainer. In contrast, Palworld is also a capture-based game but is a real-time action title (featuring firearms), emphasizing survival and crafting. Here, the Pals are not just companions but are utilized as ‘labor.’ Nevertheless, Nintendo initiated a lawsuit against Pocketpair for Palworld, and while they often prevail in such cases, this one appears to be an exception.
Recent reports suggest Nintendo has ‘no chance of winning’ against Pocketpair. While it might not be a complete acquittal where Pocketpair pays nothing, a payout of approximately $30,000 to Nintendo would be negligible considering the game’s massive revenue.
The Verdict is Expected on November 9th, Indicating Pocketpair May Only Pay $30,000 to Nintendo, Who Spent $40 Million on Litigation
A victory for Pocketpair would not only highlight Nintendo’s investment of an estimated $40 million in legal fees and lawyers over two years in a losing battle but would also achieve their primary goal: preventing Nintendo from halting the game’s development and sales. Had they lost, Nintendo could have sought to remove Palworld from Steam and consoles, potentially ending the project, in addition to demanding a substantial sum of money.
Therefore, barring any unforeseen surprises, the victory seems to be leaning towards Pocketpair. The final hearing where evidence and arguments will be presented is scheduled for October 1, 2026, with the court set to declare the winner on November 9th.
