Game developers express doubt over the purported coincidences between creatures in Palworld and Pokemon, suggesting that creating complex model meshes with such near-exact proportions is practically impossible by accident.
Since the recent Early Access launch of Palworld, comparisons to Pokemon have been frequent due to similarities in creature designs. While initial assessments leaned towards mere similarities and unlikely legal repercussions, developers now raise concerns about the character models used for these similar creatures. Several industry professionals argue that the close resemblance in proportions is unlikely to occur accidentally.
Former Blizzard and PlayStation developer Eric Covington states, “To ‘accidentally’ create a complex model mesh with so near-exact proportions is practically impossible.” The sentiment is echoed by other experienced AAA game artists who emphasize that such similarities raise questions about potential copyright infringement.
Despite the legal concerns, the CEO of Palworld developer PocketPair, Takuro Mizobe, dismisses the allegations, affirming, “We have absolutely no intention of infringing upon the intellectual property of other companies.” Meanwhile, Nintendo acknowledges Palworld’s existence but refrains from commenting on “individual cases.”
The debate continues, with some developers advising against cutting corners in game development to avoid risks and maintain credibility within the industry.
