Nintendo’s Anti-Palworld Patent Blitz: Expert Uncovers Insidious Tactics

Nintendo’s War on Palworld: Was the Patent Application a Calculated Move?

When Nintendo announced it was suing Palworld maker Pocketpair for patent infringement, it sent shockwaves through the gaming community. But what’s behind this sudden lawsuit? According to an intellectual property expert, it’s "exceedingly plausible" that Nintendo crafted its patent applications specifically to target Palworld.

Nintendo’s Patent Applications: A Targeted Approach?

Andrew Velzen, an associate at law firm MBHB, analyzed the situation and found that Nintendo’s patent claims all relate to different aspects of catching and riding "combat characters" and "field characters" using "player characters." What’s striking is that these patent applications were filed after Palworld’s release and were accelerated to issuance using Japanese expedited examination procedures.

A Strategic Move?

Velzen notes that Nintendo didn’t stop at just filing the patent applications. The company also filed two similar patents with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) in May 2024, again after Palworld’s release. These US patent applications relate to the in-game activities of throwing items or boarding objects while airborne.

A Calculated Move?

Based on this information, Velzen concludes that it’s "not overly speculative" to assume Nintendo filed its US patent applications with the intention of targeting Palworld. He adds that it’s also "exceedingly plausible" that these claims were crafted to read on aspects of Palworld.

The Future of the Suit

While Nintendo’s lawsuit is currently only targeting Japan, Velzen notes that the company’s US patent claims have been rejected. However, Nintendo still has until October to amend its claims and/or argue against the rejections. If the lawsuit proceeds successfully, Nintendo may have the opportunity to file a similar suit for patent infringement in the US.

Palworld’s Response

Palworld developer Pocketpair has confirmed it received notice of Nintendo’s legal action and vowed to fight the lawsuit. The developer aims to ensure that small studios are not hindered or discouraged from pursuing creative ideas.

Palworld’s Release

Meanwhile, Palworld has officially released on PS5 in 68 countries and regions, excluding Japan. Given the timing of the release and the lawsuit, many have speculated that Nintendo’s legal action is to blame.