Nintendo ADR (OTC:NTDOY) and The Pokémon Company have taken legal action against Pocketpair, the developer behind Palworld, claiming patent infringement in Japan.

This lawsuit, involves claims for financial damages and an injunction against Palworld's release in Japan.

Nintendo's Patent-Based Lawsuit Targets Key Features

Unlike a typical copyright claim, Nintendo and The Pokémon Company have pursued the lawsuit under patent law. They are demanding 5 million yen (approximately $32,846) each, plus additional damages for delayed payment, Pocketpair said in a statement.

See Also: Pokémon, Palworld Controversy Teaches This Developer A Lesson: ‘I Try To Avoid Creating New Things’

The lawsuit also aims to block the release of Palworld entirely, an action that could halt the game's availability on major platforms, including PC, Microsoft Corp.’s (NASDAQ:MSFT) Xbox, and more recently, Sony Group Corp.’s (NYSE:SONY) PlayStation.

The patents at the center of this dispute are reportedly tied to core gameplay mechanics that fans recognize from the Pokémon series.

These include the concept of catching creatures in an open field, a system recently popularized by Pokémon Legends: Arceus, and the ability to ride on top of creatures—both features that Palworld integrates into its gameplay.

The Similarities Stir Controversy Among Fans

Since Palworld’s initial release, fans and industry watchers have debated its close resemblance to Pokémon games, with many pointing to particular Pals as near-replicas of well-known Pokémon. For example, the Pal named Sparkit resembles Pikachu in its design—a small, yellow, furry electric creature—though it maintains unique design elements. Similarly, Foxparks, a fire-based fox, is reminiscent of both Vulpix and Charmander, featuring a flaming tail.

Adding to the debate, the creature Mozzarina closely resembles Snorlax in expression and shape, while Grintale shares a likeness with Galarian Meowth.

Pocketpair's Response: A Battle On Legal Grounds

Pocketpair has responded decisively, saying it will defend its position in court. In a statement, the company said: "We will continue to assert our position in this case through future legal proceedings."

With Palworld already seeing commercial success and now launched on PS5, Pocketpair remains committed to preserving the game’s availability.

The contested patents, which include:

• Patent No. 7545191 (filed July 30, 2024; registered August 27, 2024)
• Patent No. 7493117 (filed February 26, 2024; registered May 22, 2024)
• Patent No. 7528390 (filed March 5, 2024; registered July 26, 2024)

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