Nintendo Sues Developer Over "Pokemon with Guns" Game
In a shocking move, Japan’s Nintendo has filed a lawsuit against Pocketpair, the developer of the viral hit video game "Palworld," accusing the studio of patent infringement. The game, dubbed "Pokemon with guns" by fans, has been a global sensation, selling over five million copies in just three days. However, Nintendo claims that "Palworld" infringes on its intellectual property rights, particularly in terms of the game’s player avatars and monsters.
According to a Nintendo statement, the company has filed a patent infringement lawsuit in the Tokyo District Court against Pocketpair. The lawsuit seeks an injunction against infringement and compensation for damages. The exact amount of compensation being sought was not disclosed.
The game "Palworld" features weapon-wielding player avatars and monsters that bear a striking resemblance to the creatures from Nintendo’s wildly popular "Pokemon" franchise. Players can engage in multiplayer combat, farming, building, and other activities alongside these mysterious creatures, known as "Pals."
Despite initial concerns about the game’s similarity to "Pokemon," initial reviews have been positive, with many critics praising the game’s depth and attention to detail. However, Nintendo is not taking any chances, citing the need to protect its intellectual property rights.
The game is still in development, but an early access version is available on the online Steam platform for US customers at a cost of $29.99.
In response to the lawsuit, Pocketpair issued a statement, saying it would begin legal proceedings and investigations into the claims of patent infringement. The company lamented the need to divert resources away from game development to address the lawsuit.
The "Pokemon" franchise has been a global hit since its launch in 1996, with numerous games, movies, and TV shows. The franchise’s slogan, "Gotta Catch ‘Em All," has become a cultural phenomenon.
