Palworld’s Legal Battles: Nintendo Lawsuit Forces Gameplay Changes, Gliding “Compromise”

The smash-hit survival game Palworld is facing significant adjustments as a result of an ongoing patent infringement lawsuit brought forth by Nintendo and The Pokémon Company. Developer Pocketpair has confirmed that these changes are “disappointing” but necessary to avoid further disruptions to the game's development and distribution.

One of the most notable changes is the removal of Pal gliding. A recent game patch replaces the ability to glide using Pals with a mandatory glider item. While Pals will still provide passive buffs during gliding, players must now equip a glider to take to the skies. According to Pocketpair, this is “yet another compromise” stemming from the Nintendo lawsuit.

Previously, patch v0.3.11 had already removed the ability to throw Pal Spheres to summon Pals, a mechanic reminiscent of Pokémon's iconic battle system. These changes have sparked frustration among players who feel the original mechanics were integral to the game's experience.

In a statement, Pocketpair expressed understanding for player frustration, stating, “Everyone here at Pocketpair was disappointed that this adjustment had to be made, and we fully understand that many players feel the same frustration.” The developer admits that the alternative to these changes would have “led to an even greater deterioration of the gameplay experience.”

However, the legal battle is more complex than it appears. A report by GameFray highlights that Palworld showcased Pal gliding as early as June 2021, during Indie Live Expo. This predates Nintendo's patent application for the mechanic, which was submitted in December 2021.

Despite this prior art, Nintendo was granted the patent in 2024, creating a legal grey area. While the early Palworld footage doesn't necessarily invalidate Nintendo's patent, it does suggest that the mechanic wasn't as innovative as Nintendo claims, potentially weakening their case. This point may become important, should the case come to US soil. Nintendo's application for the same patents in the US may signify its intention to bring the case to the US as well.

The core of Nintendo’s lawsuit revolves around patents related to catching and releasing Pokémon using Poké Balls and riding Pokémon, not necessarily the visual designs of the Pals themselves.

The legal proceedings are prolonged, and Pocketpair confirms that they continue to dispute the claims and assert the invalidity of the patents in question. They are making changes to avoid disruptions to the game. Will they succeed in defending their game and potentially restoring the removed mechanics? Only time will tell.

What do you think about the changes forced upon Palworld due to the Nintendo lawsuit? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

• Nintendo
• Palworld
• Pokemon