Palworld developer Pocketpair is gearing up for its much-anticipated crossplay update, slated for release in late March 2025. This exciting update will introduce multiplayer functionality across all platforms and include the ability to transfer Pals between different worlds. While Pocketpair has kept further details under wraps, they did share a promotional image featuring Palworld characters engaged in battle with a formidable Pal.
Palworld gets crossplay late March. Image credit: Pocketpair.
Pocketpair's Communications Director and Publishing Manager, John 'Bucky' Buckley, hinted at "a few little surprises" that will accompany the March update. This news is particularly thrilling for the 32 million players who have embraced Palworld since its early access launch in January 2024. The studio has outlined an ambitious content roadmap for 2025, which includes the crossplay update, an "ending scenario," and more new content for the highly popular creature-catching survival game.
Palworld made a splash upon its launch on Steam for $30 and on Game Pass for Xbox and PC, shattering sales records and achieving unprecedented concurrent player numbers. Pocketpair's CEO, Takuro Mizobe, admitted that the game's massive success overwhelmed the studio with profits it was unprepared to handle. Nevertheless, Pocketpair quickly capitalized on Palworld's breakout success by forming a new business, Palworld Entertainment, through a deal with Sony. This new entity aims to expand the Palworld IP and bring the game to the PS5.
However, a cloud looms over these developments as Nintendo and The Pokémon Company have filed a lawsuit against Pocketpair. They are seeking an injunction against infringement and compensation for damages, claiming that Palworld has violated "multiple" patent rights. In response, Pocketpair has identified the specific patents in question and adjusted how players summon Pals in the game. The studio remains steadfast, promising to defend its position vigorously in court, stating, “We will continue to assert our position in this case through future legal proceedings.”
