Is the Biggest Video Game a Rip-off?
Did Palworld Steal From Pokémon?
By: Mitchell Kayal, Managing Editor
Palworld is a new monster-catching RPG that allows you to train your monsters and battle others. Sounds familiar? Well, that is because it sounds like the famous Pokémon.
While Palword is not a direct rip-off of Pokémon, some of the mechanics are very similar. For instance, out of the 100-plus “Pals,” many share an appearance similar to that of Pokémon. In addition, the level system, world and premise are all similar to that of Pokémon. Here is what some Lynn University students have to say about it.
“Personally, I like how similar the two games are. I think it provides a fresh face to the pocket-monster style of games,” said Tristen Pantesco, a former Lynn student. “It reminds me of Baukugan or Digimon.”
Palworld shares many similarities to Baukugan and Digimon, two popular franchises which have previously been called “Pokémon rip-offs.” However Palworld’s visible style is most similar to Pokémon, and has been given the moniker “Pokémon with guns,” by the community.
“I find it funny how it’s advertised the way it is, especially since Pokémon is advertised more to the younger audience,” said Jose Galindo, a junior at Lynn.
On Jan. 25, 2024, the Pokémon company released a statement regarding the Palworld drama.
“We intend to investigate and take appropriate measures to address any acts that infringe on intellectual property rights related to the Pokémon.”
Although Pokémon does not directly mention Palworld in their statement, some believe that Palworld is being referenced. Whether or not a lawsuit will be filed against Palworld is still yet unclear.
