Palworld developer Pocketpair is finalizing its highly anticipated cross-play update, slated for release in late March 2025. A recent X/Twitter post confirmed this update will introduce cross-platform multiplayer, enabling players across all platforms to team up. Additionally, the update will add world transfer functionality for Pals. While further details remain scarce, a promotional image showcases a thrilling battle between several Palworld characters and a colossal Pal.
This news is particularly welcome for the 32 million players who have embraced Palworld since its early access launch in January 2024. Pocketpair has unveiled an ambitious content roadmap for Palworld in 2025, encompassing not only cross-play but also a concluding scenario and additional content for this immensely popular creature-catching survival game.
Palworld's launch was a phenomenal success. Priced at $30 on Steam and simultaneously released on Xbox and PC Game Pass a year ago, it shattered sales and concurrent player records. Pocketpair CEO Takuro Mizobe revealed that the game's initial success was so overwhelming that the developer couldn’t initially manage the influx of profits. Despite this, Pocketpair swiftly capitalized on Palworld's breakout success, partnering with Sony to establish Palworld Entertainment, a new venture dedicated to expanding the IP and bringing the game to PS5.
However, a looming legal challenge from Nintendo and The Pokémon Company casts a shadow. They are seeking "an injunction against infringement and compensation for damages," alleging Palworld infringes on "multiple" patent rights. Pocketpair has responded by publicly identifying the patents in question and implementing adjustments to the Pal summoning mechanic within Palworld. The studio remains resolute, declaring: “We will continue to assert our position in this case through future legal proceedings.”
