Since its early access launch in January 2024, Palworld has attracted over 32 million players across all platforms, including PC via Steam, Xbox, and PlayStation 5. The game, dubbed "Pokémon with guns," has broken records with its crafting and survival mechanics, earning widespread acclaim and a fervent player base.

"Thank you so much!" Pocketpair expressed on social media. "As always, your support means the world to us!"

John 'Bucky' Buckley, Pocketpair's Communications Director and Publishing Manager, added, "We will continue to work hard to make Palworld year 2 even better!"

Launched at $30 on Steam and included in Game Pass on Xbox and PC, Palworld's initial release shattered sales and concurrent player number records. The game's overwhelming success led Pocketpair's CEO, Takuro Mizobe, to admit that the developer was unprepared for the massive profits generated. In response, Pocketpair quickly signed a deal with Sony to establish Palworld Entertainment, aimed at expanding the game's IP and bringing it to the PlayStation 5.

While Pocketpair focuses on enhancing Palworld, a significant patent lawsuit filed by Nintendo and The Pokémon Company casts a shadow over the game's future. Following Palworld's launch, some accused Pocketpair of copying Pokémon designs, leading to comparisons between Palworld's Pals and Pokémon. Instead of pursuing a copyright infringement lawsuit, Nintendo and The Pokémon Company opted for a patent lawsuit, seeking 5 million yen (approximately $32,846) each, plus late payment damages and an injunction to block Palworld's release.

In November, Pocketpair confirmed it was being sued over three Japan-based patents related to capturing Pokémon in a virtual field. Palworld features a similar mechanic, where players throw a Pal Sphere at monsters to capture them, reminiscent of the mechanic in the 2022 Nintendo Switch exclusive, Pokémon Legends: Arceus. Recently, Pocketpair modified the way players summon Pals, prompting speculation that the change was a response to the patent infringement lawsuit.

Patent experts view Nintendo and The Pokémon Company's lawsuit as indicative of the threat posed by Palworld. As the legal battle unfolds, all eyes are on the outcome, with Pocketpair determined to defend its position in court. "We will continue to assert our position in this case through future legal proceedings," Pocketpair stated.

Despite the ongoing legal challenges, Pocketpair remains committed to Palworld, releasing significant updates and forging collaborations with other major video games, including a crossover with Terraria.