The Pokemon Company Launches Investigation Into Palworld for Possible IP Infringement
3 min read
Palworld Source: Pocketpair, Inc.
The Pokemon Company has officially addressed the ongoing controversy surrounding Palworld, a game that has gained significant attention since its early access launch. In a statement released on Wednesday night in the United States, the company acknowledged the numerous inquiries it has received regarding the game.
The Pokemon Company Responds to Palworld Controversy
The Pokemon Company explicitly stated that it has not granted any permission for the use of Pokemon intellectual property or assets in Palworld. In response to concerns raised by players and the gaming community, the company has decided to conduct an investigation into the game and its developer for potential intellectual property infringement.
Pokemon company issues statement in which it appears they fall for malicious viral fake news about Palworld stealing pokemon assets, which was debunked yesterday by the person who started that rumour. Yes, the tweet about the same models was faked. pic.twitter.com/uB7LM0gixt
— Blaines (@realblaines) January 25, 2024
The full statement reads, “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.”
Palworld’s Success Amid Controversy
Despite the controversy and claims that Palworld’s creatures closely resemble existing Pokemon, the game has experienced remarkable success, selling over 8 million copies in less than six days. The Pokemon Company’s statement comes in the wake of the game’s popularity, emphasizing its commitment to protecting its intellectual property.
"Hopefully Pokemon will get off their ass and make a game like this"
— Fridge 🧊 (@SmartFridgePro) January 24, 2024
Ninja's thoughts on the Pokemon & Palworld drama pic.twitter.com/n0qofJlnVN
Developer’s Response and Legal Clearance
Prior to The Pokemon Company’s statement, Palworld developer Pocketpair had defended the game, asserting that it draws more inspiration from titles like Ark Survival Evolved and Vanaheim than from Pokemon. Pocketpair CEO Takuro Mizobe mentioned that the game had undergone legal reviewing, and the team had not faced any legal action for infringement.
Mizobe stated, “We make our games very seriously, and we have absolutely no intention of infringing upon the intellectual property of other companies.”
Am I wrong about this?
Looking at so many people angry with what I said is kind of shocking to me
When you go to market with a product, the only thing that matters is the consumers perception of that products value.
When did this become wrong? https://t.co/3CP2XJtak7— Zack (@Asmongold) January 24, 2024Advertisement
While Palworld continues to attract attention for its unique gameplay, it has also faced challenges, including death threats directed at the development team. The Pokemon Company has taken action against modders replacing Palworld’s creatures with Pokemon, and Nexus Mods has opted not to host Pokemon mods for Palworld, citing concerns about potential legal actions from Nintendo.
As the investigation unfolds, the controversy surrounding Palworld raises important questions about the boundaries between inspiration and infringement in the gaming industry. Palworld’s success, combined with The Pokemon Company’s commitment to protecting its iconic intellectual property, adds a layer of complexity to the ongoing debate over creative liberties and legal responsibilities in the world of gaming.
Shivam Kumar
Hi, I'm Shivam Kumar. I'm pursuing Journalism honors from the IP University. I love the skill of writing and looking forward to learn more of it. Also I love traveling and experiencing new things every day....
