Palworld, showcased at PlayStation's September 2024 State of Play event, finally arrives on PlayStation consoles after its Xbox and PC debuts. However, a significant exception exists: the PS5 launch is delayed indefinitely in Japan due to legal issues with Nintendo.
Palworld's PlayStation 5 Japan Release: An Indefinite Hold
Palworld's PlayStation 5 Debut
As announced during the PlayStation State of Play, Palworld launched globally on PS5, even featuring a trailer showcasing Aloy-inspired gear from *Horizon Forbidden West*. Yet, Japanese PlayStation gamers are left waiting.The global PS5 launch excludes Japan, where Nintendo and Pokémon have filed a patent infringement lawsuit against developer Pocketpair. This legal battle casts a shadow over Palworld's Japanese PS5 release.
Uncertain Future for Palworld's PS5 Japan Release
Palworld's Japanese Twitter (X) account confirmed the global release, excluding Japan, and apologized for the delay. No release date has been set for Japan. While the reason for the delay remains unstated by Pocketpair, the ongoing legal action is widely considered the cause. Nintendo's lawsuit, filed in Tokyo, seeks an injunction and damages, potentially leading to Palworld's shutdown.
