A new survival game has quietly made its way to Nintendo Switch, bearing an uncanny resemblance to the controversial Palworld. Named Palland, it blends creature collecting with base building, landing at a time when Pocketpair, the studio behind Palworld, is still embroiled in a legal battle with The Pokémon Company – making the timing particularly intriguing.

While the lawsuit between The Pokémon Company and Pocketpair over alleged patent infringement in Palworld remains unresolved, the Nintendo eShop has welcomed a title whose survival mechanics and creature-catching gameplay closely echo the Japanese game. The difference? Unlike Palworld, Palland seems to have slipped under Nintendo’s radar for now, catching many players off guard.

Nearly a year ago, The Pokémon Company filed a lawsuit against Pocketpair, forcing significant changes to Palworld’s core systems – from creature capture mechanics to in-game flight. Now, Palland emerges, openly mimicking the survival and collection style of Palworld, which itself had been accused of imitating Pokémon.

A Copy of a Copy

Available on Nintendo Switch and curiously categorized as Simulation, Strategy, and Arcade party game, Palland’s trailer and store description strongly resemble those of Palworld. The game offers base building, resource gathering, crafting, and wild creatures – known as Pals – that can serve as foes, allies, or power sources. However, its gameplay appears less refined and fluid.

So far, neither Pocketpair, Nintendo, nor The Pokémon Company has publicly addressed Palland or the similarities between the titles. From its name to its creature and character designs, Palland channels Palworld’s essence, though with what some might call a clumsier execution. The situation adds yet another chapter to the ongoing debate about originality and inspiration in the gaming industry.

As for Palland’s future, it remains uncertain – and it wouldn’t be surprising if either Japanese rights holder were to remove it from sale, especially if the Palworld legal dispute escalates further. In the meantime, players and the wider community are watching closely as this curious tale of clones, lawsuits, and controversy unfolds.

Source: 3djuegos