Overview of the Lawsuit In mid-September 2024, Nintendo and The Pokémon Company jointly filed a lawsuit against Pocketpair, alleging that the creature-capturing mechanics in Palworld infringe on several patents. Pocketpair, the Japanese studio behind Palworld, initially described the lawsuit as an “unfortunate” obstacle, noting that it could divert resources from ongoing game development.
Six weeks later, Pocketpair has released an update, providing more detailed information on the claims made by Nintendo and The Pokémon Company. The plaintiffs have identified three patents at the heart of their case, which Pocketpair disclosed by their patent numbers: 7545191, 7493117, and 7528390. Japan-based IP attorney Kiyoshi Kurihara initially speculated on these patents, and Pocketpair’s update now confirms this theory.
Patent Infringement Allegations The patents in question cover mechanics that resemble the Pokémon series’ creature-capture system. These include a method for aiming with an analog stick, followed by the release of a capture item like a Poké Ball. Additionally, a system for calculating the probability of capture based on these actions is detailed in one of the patents. Palworld’s “Pal Spheres,” a similar mechanic to Poké Balls, is likely the primary element of alleged infringement.
Although Pocketpair claims these patents were only finalized in 2024, Nintendo’s initial filings date back to 2021. Filed initially in Japan, the patents support the theory that Nintendo and The Pokémon Company are focusing legal efforts within the Japanese jurisdiction, as patent laws generally restrict rights to specific countries.
Nintendo’s Demands: Modest Damages but High Stakes Nintendo and The Pokémon Company are seeking damages totaling 10 million yen (~$65,600), split evenly between the two plaintiffs. Additionally, they demand an injunction to prevent Palworld’s future sales in Japan. Despite these demands, Pocketpair maintains its position on the case, indicating its intent to defend against the allegations in future legal proceedings.
As the case progresses, Pocketpair is committed to asserting its stance, potentially setting up a notable legal battle over creature-capturing game mechanics.
