Palworld Creator Releases New Switch

Pocketpair's Surprise Nintendo Switch Release Amidst Legal Battle

Pocketpair, the developer embroiled in a legal dispute with Nintendo and The Pokémon Company, unexpectedly launched its 2019 title, OverDungeon, on the Nintendo eShop. This action card game, blending tower defense and roguelike elements, marks Pocketpair's first Nintendo Switch release. The launch, announced without prior warning, coincides with a 50% discount lasting until January 24th.

The company's decision to release OverDungeon on the Nintendo eShop, while Palworld is available on PS5 and Xbox, has sparked online speculation, with some suggesting it's a strategic response to the ongoing lawsuit. This lawsuit, filed in September 2024, alleges that Palworld's Pal Spheres infringe on Pokémon's creature-capturing patents.

Despite the controversy surrounding Palworld, Pocketpair continues to support the game, releasing a major update in December and announcing a collaboration with Terraria, adding a new Pal named Meowmeow and promising further content in 2025. They've also hinted at future plans for Palworld, including Mac and potential mobile ports.

OverDungeon's surprise release highlights Pocketpair's proactive approach amidst legal challenges. The company's history includes other games drawing comparisons to Nintendo titles, such as Craftopia (2020), which bears resemblance to The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. While the outcome of the Palworld lawsuit remains uncertain, Pocketpair's continued game development and release demonstrate their commitment to their projects. The legal battle's potential duration, potentially spanning years according to patent experts, adds another layer of complexity to the situation.