Nintendo has patented a system of "capturing characters with objects" - this will strengthen its position against Palworld

Nintendo has received a new patent from the US Patent Office, potentially strengthening its legal case against Palworld developer Pocketpair. The patent, first spotted by Games Fray, was filed in July 2024 and is part of a broader patent dated December 2021.

Here's What We Know

The patent details gameplay mechanics where players use an object to capture characters on the field and then use them in battles. It is very similar to the elements of the Pokémon franchise from Nintendo. It is noteworthy that the patent distinguishes between different "modes" of capture, which suggests a reference to Pokémon Legends: Arceus, known for its real-time capture system.

Nintendo has already filed a lawsuit against Pocketpair in Japan for similar patents. With the new US patent, the company now has a stronger legal position to continue its fight against Pocketpair in the US. Palworld has similar mechanics, allowing players to capture friends and use them in battle.

The move follows Nintendo's injunction against Pocketpair in November, which cited three patent infringements. Meanwhile, Pocketpair is expanding into game publishing, having recently partnered with Surgent Studios to support indie developers seeking greater financial freedom.

Source: GamingBolt