Summary of Nintendo’s Legal Action Against Palworld
Following the recent announcement of Nintendo suing Palworld maker Pocketpair for patent infringement, an IP expert suggests that Nintendo strategically targeted Palworld with its patent applications. Andrew Velzen, an associate at law firm MBHB, highlighted key patent applications related to catching and riding characters in the game post the release of Palworld by Nintendo and The Pokémon Company.
Nintendo’s Patent Filings and Lawsuit
Nintendo extended its patent claims by filing similar patents in the US after the release of Palworld, focusing on in-game activities like throwing catching items and boarding objects. Velzen suggests that Nintendo’s patent applications were crafted to target Palworld specifically, as indicated by the expedited examination process.
Implications of the Lawsuit
Although the lawsuit is currently limited to Japan, the rejection of Nintendo’s US patent claims during examination raises questions. Velzen speculates that if the litigation in Japan progresses successfully, Nintendo may pursue a similar lawsuit in the US. Despite uncertainties, the seriousness of Nintendo’s stance against Palworld is evident.
Developer Response and Global Release
Pocketpair, the developer of Palworld, has vowed to challenge Nintendo’s lawsuit to support creative ideas in small studios. The release of Palworld for PS5 in various countries, excluding Japan, has sparked assumptions that the lawsuit influenced Nintendo’s decision.