Palworld Developer Surprise Launches Another Game on Nintendo Switch Despite Lawsuit

Pocketpair's Surprise Nintendo Switch Release Amidst Ongoing Legal Battle

Pocketpair, the developer embroiled in a lawsuit with Nintendo and The Pokémon Company, unexpectedly launched its 2019 title, OverDungeon, on the Nintendo eShop. This action-card game, blending tower defense and roguelike elements, marks Pocketpair's first Nintendo Switch release. The launch was unannounced, further adding to the intrigue surrounding the company's recent actions.

The launch coincides with a 50% discount on OverDungeon, running until January 24th, ostensibly to celebrate its Nintendo Switch debut. This move follows months of legal turmoil stemming from accusations of patent infringement against Pocketpair's popular game, Palworld.

Nintendo and The Pokémon Company filed suit in September 2024, alleging that Palworld's Pal Spheres infringed on Pokémon's creature-capturing system patents. While Pocketpair has acknowledged the situation, the ongoing legal proceedings remain largely undisclosed. Despite the lawsuit, Palworld received a major update in December, boosting its concurrent Steam player count. The release of OverDungeon on the Nintendo eShop, therefore, is viewed by some as a strategic response to the ongoing legal battle.

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