Palworld has implemented major gameplay changes as a direct result of ongoing legal battles with the Pokémon franchise owners. Pocketpair, the game’s developer, confirmed that several signature features have been removed or altered to comply with legal requirements and prevent further disruption to the game’s development.
[Regarding the lawsuit, changes to Palworld and the future]
— Palworld (@Palworld_EN) May 8, 2025
We would like to express our sincere gratitude and appreciation for the continued support of our fans over the past few months. We apologize for not being able to share as much information as we would like, but we trust…
The changes came through recent patches, with update v0.3.11 removing the ability to summon Pals by throwing Pal Spheres. Instead, players now use a static summon mechanic that makes creatures appear next to the player. This change directly addresses one of the most Pokémon-like features in the game—the iconic ball-throwing capture and summon system.
Another significant alteration arrived with Patch v0.5.5, which completely reworked the gliding system. Players can no longer use their Pals to glide across the map, a feature reminiscent of recent Pokémon titles. The new system requires a separate glider item, though Pals can still apply passive buffs to the gliding experience.
— Palworld (@Palworld_EN) May 8, 2025
Pocketpair openly acknowledged these changes were made specifically because of the lawsuit. “These changes were indeed a result of the ongoing litigation,” the developers stated. “We understand that this will be disappointing for many, just as it is for us, but we hope our fans understand that these changes are necessary in order to prevent further disruptions to the development of Palworld.”
The lawsuit, brought by Nintendo, The Pokémon Company, and Game Freak, alleges that Palworld‘s features and mechanics infringe on patents or trademarks held by the Pokémon owners. While the developers emphasize these changes are preventative and don’t represent an admission of guilt, they clearly show the legal pressure Palworld faces.
Since its explosive launch, Palworld has attracted both massive player numbers and legal scrutiny for its similarities to Pokémon. While the game incorporates unique elements like gunplay, base-building, and survival mechanics, its creature designs and core collecting aspects have kept it under Nintendo’s legal microscope.
Some players have expressed frustration at the changes, with one noting: “Nothing there suggests gameplay elements are being changed. It just makes the game less flashy, but the core gameplay will stay the same. It just won’t look as nice.” Others questioned whether such mechanics should be protectable at all, with one player asking: “How does this affect games with flying mounts? It’s insane they were able to trademark that.”
Legal poké-poking
The whole thing highlights the controversial practice of patenting gameplay mechanics in the gaming industry. Similar to how Warner Bros. patented the “Nemesis System” from Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor, these legal protections can potentially stifle innovation across the industry by preventing other developers from implementing similar features.
Despite these forced changes, Palworld continues to maintain its popularity. The developers have expressed gratitude to fans for their patience and support, promising that development will continue with a focus on avoiding further legal complications.
