Palworld, the game often described as “Pokémon with guns,” has captured the gaming community’s attention for its bold premise and engaging mechanics. However, its success has also drawn the ire of Nintendo, which is suing the game’s developer, Pocketpair, over three unique patents. Surprisingly, a mod for Grand Theft Auto 5 might prove to be a pivotal defense in this legal battle.
The Patent Debate: Nintendo vs. Palworld
Nintendo’s primary legal argument revolves around Patent No. 7545191, which pertains to the mechanic of throwing an item—such as Palworld’s Pal Spheres—to capture creatures. Nintendo asserts that this mechanic is too similar to the use of Poké Balls in Pokémon games. However, Japanese patent attorney Ryo Arashida, speaking to Nikkei Business (via Automaton), has pointed out that an earlier GTA 5 mod from 2016 used a similar mechanic.
This mod, believed to be a Pokémon GO-themed GTA 5 modification, predates the 7545191 patent’s “parent patent,” registered in 2021. If the mod’s mechanics can be proven to share similarities with Palworld’s, it could invalidate Nintendo’s claim. This precedent could deal a significant blow to Nintendo’s case, as the existence of prior art weakens the enforceability of the patent in question.
The Other Patent Hurdles
While the potential invalidation of one patent would be a major win for Pocketpair, Nintendo’s lawsuit also hinges on two additional patents:
- Patent 7493117: Related to aiming mechanics in the game.
- Patent 7528390: Covers the riding of characters, which also appears as a key gameplay feature in Palworld.
At present, there’s no indication of similar prior art that could undermine these two patents, leaving them as major hurdles in Palworld’s legal battle.
Potential Outcomes for Palworld
Nintendo is seeking damages totaling ¥10 million (approximately $65,000 USD) along with late payment penalties. While this sum is unlikely to cripple Pocketpair financially, Nintendo is also requesting an injunction that would ban the sale of Palworld in Japan. Such a ruling could significantly impact the game’s success, as losing access to the Japanese market could hinder its growth and profitability.
That said, Pocketpair’s focus on global markets might allow it to weather this storm even if the injunction is granted. Palworld’s international appeal and its growing fan base could ensure its survival, but the legal battle underscores the risks of treading close to Nintendo’s intellectual property.
A Modded Legacy
If the GTA 5 mod ultimately aids in Palworld’s defense, it would be a rare instance where a fan-made project inadvertently shapes the trajectory of an entirely separate game. For now, the gaming community waits to see if this surprising twist will alter the course of Pocketpair’s battle with Nintendo.
