- Palworld blends creature collecting and other genres such as third person shooter and survival.
- The game makes use of darker themes as opposed to Pokémon such as using pals for labor and combat.
- Players can use firearms and other weapons in fights unlike in Pokémon.
In the genre of creature collecting games, very few have left a mark as Pokémon. Pokémon became such a big thing that when Palworld was announced people labeled it as a mere Pokémon clone.
However, despite the accusations on a deeper look Palworld is much different. The game offers features and experiences that distinguish itself significantly from its predecessor and is available on Steam.
A Unique Blend of Genres Unlike Pokémon
One of the major differences between the games is the blend of genres in Palworld. Pokémon is primarily a turn-based RPG focused on collecting and battling creatures. Palworld on the other hand uses elements of survival games, crafting and even third person shooting.
In the game players can equip weapons to fight pals and other players which is not seen in Pokémon. This genre fusion sets the game apart from Pokémon allowing it to appeal to a bigger audience.
Dark and Mature Themes
Another reason why Palworld is not a rip-off of Pokemon is that it dives into themes that Pokémon typically avoids. The game provides a world where players can exploit their Pals.
You can make your pals do factory work and such introducing a darker and more dystopian element to the game. While this may not appeal to most players, it adds a layer of depth and complexity that Pokémon games lack.
In an interview with Game File’s Stephen Totilo, McGowan Pokémon’s Ex lawyer referred to Palworld as “the usual ripoff nonsense.” Furthermore, he implied that he was surprised that the game made it this far.
Ex Pokémon legal chief is surprised Palworld has made it as far as it has.
He states, "looks like the usual ripoff nonsense that I would see a thousand times a year when I was chief legal officer of Pokémon."
Do you think Palworld is too similar to Pokémon? pic.twitter.com/d9iP6uCAaI
— Controller 🕹 (@ControllerByRap) January 24, 2024
This, however, is not true as the game allows for players to be trainers, builders, explorers, and combatants at the same time leading Palworld to become a major success at release with 370K players.
Open World Exploration
Palworld offers a more open-world experience compared to the structured, region-based exploration of Pokémon. In the game players can explore different biomes, each with its own unique challenges and creatures.
This open world approach encourages exploration and discovery, providing a sense of freedom and immersion for players. Players can venture into the open world and can uncover hidden secrets.
Cooperative and Competitive Multiplayer
Pokémon has ventured into multiplayer with trading and battling but Palworld takes it a step further by using cooperative and competitive multiplayer modes. Players can team up with friends to explore the world and tackle challenges.
Furthermore, players can also engage in battles against each other. This aspect significantly increases the replayability of the game and offers a range of different interactions that differ from the single player focus of Pokémon.
One additional thing that puts Palworld ahead of Pokémon and not a rip-off is that it is available on different platforms. The success of Palworld show that Pokémon should go multi-platform.
Advanced Crafting and Building Systems
Palworld is not a rip-off because crafting and building are integral parts of Palworlds gameplay which are not in Pokémon. Players of the game can construct factories, shelters and other structures to aid in their survival and progression in the game.
The focus on crafting and building in the game adds a layer of strategy and creativity. This gives players more control over their environment and resources.
Recent Updates
The player counts for Palworld were already very high but after a recent update the player count has increased 700%. A new island was introduced called Sakurajima which comes with new pals, enemies and items.
Updates such as this continue to peak the interest of gamers ana fans alike. Recently Palworld has beat the famous game Counterstrike with around 1.86 million concurrent players and is rising to greater heights.
Final Thoughts
Undoubtedly, Palworld takes inspiration from the Pokemon series, but it manages to differentiate itself. Using a blend of genres, darker more mature themes and open world exploration set it apart from other similar games including Pokémon.
The game is not just a mere clone of Pokémon, not in the slightest, it continues to expand the boundaries of what creature collecting games can be. Regardless, Palworld offers a unique experience similar to everyone’s favorite Pokémon but yet so much different.
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[News Editor]
Obaid is pursuing a Law degree while working as a content writer. He has worked as a gaming writer for over three years because of his passion for the medium and reporting the latest updates in the industry. Having played hundreds of games, Obaid finds himself coming back to Elden Ring, Cyberpunk 2077, and Red Dead Redemption 2, with these games being among his favorites. He has also been mentioned on highly regarded websites, such as Wccftech, Metro UK, PS Lifestyle, GamePressure, VGC, and Gamespot.
