The Pokemon Company released a statement regarding “another company’s game released in January 2024” (Palworld) after receiving multiple inquiries.
Palworld is a creature catching game with survival elements which some critics and fans have likened to the Pokemon franchise. You can read the full announcement in English below:
Inquiries Regarding Other Companies’ Games
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.
The Pokémon Company
The Pokemon Company has remained surprisingly silent about Palworld until now, only really engaging once players began making mods of the game with franchise characters. While few people expected the surprising popularity of Palworld, any action against the game seems like it’d be a bit late since it was announced back in 2021.
Palworld was just released on January 19th, for Windows PC (via Steam and the Microsoft Store), Xbox One, and Xbox Series X|S. The game is also on Xbox Game Pass.