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 due to legal action by Nintendo.

Palworld's PlayStation 5 Japan Launch Postponed

Palworld's PS5 Debut

Despite the global release, Japanese PlayStation gamers are currently unable to access the game. This delay stems from a patent infringement lawsuit filed by Nintendo and Pokémon against Palworld's developer, Pocketpair.

Uncertain Japan Release Date

Palworld's Japanese (X) Twitter account addressed the situation, confirming the PS5 version's launch in 68 countries and regions but apologizing for the indefinite delay in Japan. They stated that a release date for Japan remains undetermined, promising to update players as soon as possible.

While Pocketpair hasn't explicitly stated the reason for the delay, the ongoing legal battle with Nintendo and Pokémon over patent infringement is widely considered the cause. Nintendo's recent announcement of a Tokyo court case seeking injunctions and damages against Palworld highlights the severity of the situation. A granted injunction could force Pocketpair to cease Palworld operations entirely, potentially leading to the game's removal.