Palworld PS5 Release Excludes Japan, Nintendo Lawsuit Likely the Reason

Palworld, showcased at PlayStation's September 2024 State of Play event, finally arrives on PlayStation consoles after its Xbox and PC debut. However, a significant hurdle has emerged: the PS5 release is indefinitely delayed in Japan due to legal action by Nintendo.

Palworld's Japanese PS5 Launch Delayed Indefinitely

Palworld's PlayStation State of Play Debut

The PS5 version of Palworld launched globally as announced during the PlayStation State of Play. Sony even highlighted the game, showcasing a character sporting Horizon Forbidden West-inspired gear.

Despite the global launch, Japanese PlayStation gamers are left waiting. The delay is directly linked to ongoing legal proceedings between Nintendo/Pokémon and Palworld developer Pocketpair.

Uncertain Future for Palworld's Japanese PS5 Release

Palworld's Japanese Twitter (X) account addressed the situation, confirming the worldwide PS5 release (excluding Japan) and apologizing for the delay. They stated that a Japanese release date is yet to be determined. While the exact reason remains unstated by Pocketpair, the ongoing patent infringement lawsuit filed by Nintendo in Tokyo is widely considered the cause. This lawsuit seeks an injunction and damages, potentially halting Palworld's operations entirely. A granted injunction could lead to the game's removal from the market.