Why Pokémon Can't Sue PalWorld

PalWorld is the latest Xbox Game Pass hit, and it looks an awful lot like Pokemon - but with one thing Pokemon doesn't have. So how come Nintendo and The Pokemon Company don't just sue PalWorld for blatantly copying their art style and gameplay?

Well, while elements of PalWorld's presentation might be legitimately described as derivative (and therefore infringing on copyright), the game's big twist - the thing that's made it a meme - is a crucial part of proving that it is its own distinct thing. Pocket Pair's unique hook is what makes the game legally distinct from Pokemon.

As for gameplay, not only was Game Freak not the first company to invent the monlike monster capture concept, you can't actually copyright an idea or a gameplay mechanic anyway.

Join us on a journey of discovery as we explore the basics of intellectual property law as it relates to fan games and games that borrow concepts from other titles. It's super effective!