Palworld Developer Surprise Launches Another Game on Nintendo Switch Despite Lawsuit

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 on January 9th, coincided with a celebratory 50% discount lasting until January 24th. This move follows months of controversy surrounding Palworld, Pocketpair's popular monster-collecting game, which is currently facing a patent infringement lawsuit alleging similarities to the Pokémon franchise's core mechanics. The lawsuit, filed in September 2024, centers on Palworld's "Pal Spheres," deemed analogous to Pokémon's Poké Balls.

While Palworld continues to receive updates and boasts a recent collaboration with Terraria, the OverDungeon release on the Nintendo eShop has sparked speculation. Some observers suggest it might be a strategic response to the ongoing legal battle. The decision to release OverDungeon on the Nintendo Switch, while Palworld is available on PS5 and Xbox, remains unexplained.

This isn't Pocketpair's first brush with comparisons to Nintendo properties. Their 2020 title, Craftopia, drew comparisons to The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. Despite the lawsuit, Pocketpair continues to actively develop Palworld, with plans for a Mac port and potential mobile release in 2025. The legal proceedings, according to patent experts, could extend for years without a settlement. The future of both Palworld and Pocketpair's relationship with Nintendo remains uncertain.