Following its Xbox and PC releases, Palworld finally arrived on PlayStation consoles, as announced during PlayStation's September 2024 State of Play event. However, a significant exception exists: the PS5 launch has been indefinitely delayed in Japan.
Palworld's PlayStation 5 Japan Release: An Unexpected Delay
Palworld's PlayStation Debut: A Global Launch, Except Japan
The PS5 version of Palworld launched globally as advertised during the September 2024 State of Play. Sony even showcased a trailer featuring Palworld characters with Horizon Forbidden West-inspired gear. Despite this global rollout, Japanese PlayStation users are currently unable to access the game.
The reason for this exclusion appears to be a legal battle between Nintendo/Pokémon and Pocketpair, Palworld's developer. A patent infringement lawsuit filed by Nintendo and Pokémon has seemingly placed the Japanese PS5 release on hold.
Palworld's PS5 Japan Release Date Remains Uncertain
Palworld's Japanese Twitter (X) account addressed the situation, confirming the global launch in 68 countries and regions but apologizing to Japanese players for the indefinite delay. They stated that a release date for Japan is yet to be determined. The statement emphasized their commitment to bringing the game to all PS5 users as soon as possible.
While Pocketpair hasn't explicitly stated the cause of the delay, the ongoing legal proceedings in Japan are widely considered the primary factor. Nintendo's recent announcement of a lawsuit filed in Tokyo District Court, seeking injunctions and damages, casts a significant shadow over Palworld's future in Japan. A granted injunction could force Pocketpair to cease Palworld operations entirely, potentially leading to the game's removal.
