Palworld, showcased at PlayStation's September 2024 State of Play event, finally arrives on PlayStation consoles after its Xbox and PC debuts. However, a significant exception exists: the PS5 release is indefinitely delayed in Japan. This delay is strongly linked to ongoing legal action involving Nintendo.
Palworld's PlayStation 5 Debut – A Global Launch with a Notable Absence
Palworld's PS5 Arrival Announced at State of Play
The PS5 version of Palworld launched globally as announced during the September 2024 PlayStation State of Play. Sony even highlighted the game, showcasing a character equipped with Horizon Forbidden West-inspired gear. Despite the global launch, Japanese PlayStation players are currently unable to access the game.
Palworld's PS5 Japan Release: An Uncertain Future
Palworld's official Japanese Twitter (now X) account addressed the situation, confirming the worldwide PS5 release in 68 countries and regions, while apologizing to Japanese fans for the indefinite delay. No release date has been set for Japan. The statement cited ongoing efforts to bring the game to all PS5 users as soon as possible.
The reason for the delay remains unstated by Pocketpair, but the ongoing legal battle between Nintendo, Pokémon, and Palworld's developer is widely considered the cause. Nintendo filed a lawsuit in Tokyo Court last week, seeking an injunction and damages, alleging patent infringement. A successful injunction could force Pocketpair to cease Palworld operations entirely, potentially resulting in the game's removal from all platforms.
