Nintendo Sues 'Pokémon with Guns' Game Developer
Nintendo and its partner, The Pokémon Company, have filed a legal case against the maker of the hit survival adventure game, Palworld, over alleged patent infringement.
Palworld quickly earned the nickname "Pokémon with guns" became the nickname of Palworld right after its first trailer was unveiled in 2021.
Just days after the game's release in January this year, The Pokémon Company said it would investigate the copycat claims.
Nintendo and The Pokémon Company said in statements posted on their websites that Palworld "infringes multiple patent rights".
"This lawsuit seeks an injunction against infringement and compensation for damages".
Palworld has become a major hit, with more than 25 million players within a month of its release.
Like the popular Pokémon video games, this franchise also revolves around collecting unique creatures with various powers.
According to Pocketpair's website, the game combines elements of battling, monster capturing, training, and base building. Players, known as "pal-tamers," explore a vast map, engaging in battles against human opponents and creatures called "pals," which can be captured and added to their team.
These creatures can either fight alongside players in battles or be assigned tasks at a base, such as crafting supplies and items for field use. In January, The Pokémon Company announced plans to investigate allegations that Palworld had copied elements from its games after fans noted the similarities.
The company stated it would take "appropriate action" if it determined its copyright had been violated.
