Palworld's PS5 Japan Release Delayed: Nintendo Lawsuit?

Announced at PlayStation State of Play Sept. 2024, Palworld is finally releasing on the PS console following its initial Xbox and PC launches. However, Palworld's PS5 release has seemingly been put on hold in Japan after recent developments with Nintendo.

Palworld PlayStation 5 Port in Japan Indefinitely On HiatusPalworld PlayStation Debut Announced at State of Play

Palworld becomes available on the PS5 today, as announced at the PlayStation State of Play September 2024. In line with Palworld's PlayStation debut, Sony shared a trailer showcasing your Palworld character equipped with gear inspired by Aloy from Sony's action RPG title Horizon Forbidden West.

However, not all PlayStation heads worldwide will be able to get their hands on the game yet.The Palworld PS5 port has already been launched for most people, but not for those in Japan—where Nintendo and Pokémon have lodged their case against Pocketpair. Palworld's PS5 release has seemingly been put on hold in the country after Nintendo and Pokémon filed a patent infringement lawsuit against Palworld developer Pocketpair.

Palworld PS5 Japan Release Date Still Undecided

Following Sony's announcement, Palworld's Japanese Twitter (X) account shared an update regarding the release of the game's PS5 version. "As announced on the official PlayStation State of Play, the PS5 version of 'Palworld' was released today in 68 countries and regions worldwide," Palworld announced.

The Palworld team also offered their apologies to PlayStation players in Japan as the game won't be available for them for the time being. They likewise confirmed that a release date for the country has yet to be decided on. "The release date for Japan has not yet been determined. We are very sorry for the Japanese people who have been looking forward to the release of “Palworld”, but we will do our best to deliver the game to all PS5 users as soon as possible."

Pocketpair did not disclose the reason for the indefinite delay of Palworld's PlayStation release in the particular region, however it is being assumed that this is due to the legal proceedings taking place in the country between Nintendo, Pokémon, and Palworld for patent infringement. Last week, Nintendo announced that they have filed a case in Tokyo Court, seeking injunction and damages against Palworld. If an injunction becomes granted by the Court, this could result in Pocketpair ceasing operations on Palworld, and potentially mean that the game will be ultimately taken down.