Nintendo and The Pokémon Company Sue Palworld Developer for Patent Infringement

Nintendo Co., Ltd. and The Pokémon Company have taken legal action against Pocketpair Inc., the Tokyo-based developer of‌ the popular​ game “Palworld,” for alleged patent infringement. The lawsuit, filed in the Tokyo District Court, seeks an injunction to stop distribution of the game ⁤and monetary compensation for damages incurred.

Palworld, released ⁢in mid-January,⁢ has gained significant attention, attracting over 25 million players. The game allows players‌ to capture⁤ and train creatures using firearms, earning‍ it the nickname​ “Pokémon with guns.”

The Pokémon Company expressed‌ concerns about intellectual⁣ property ‌protection in January ⁢and announced its intention to address potential infringements. Despite the ongoing legal proceedings, Pocketpair Inc. has yet to make an‌ official response to the allegations.

Although details ‌of the ‌case, including⁤ the specific patents allegedly ​infringed, were not disclosed, the​ lawsuit comes after Pocketpair announced a new joint venture, Palworld Entertainment Inc., with Sony Music Entertainment and Aniplex Inc.​ to expand global licensing of “Palworld.”