Palworld Gets Crossplay Late March as Part of Big Update

Palworld developer Pocketpair is gearing up for a significant update, scheduled for late March 2025, which will introduce crossplay functionality. This update, eagerly awaited by fans, will enable multiplayer across all platforms and include a new feature for world transfer of Pals. While the specifics remain under wraps, Pocketpair did share a promotional image showcasing various Palworld characters engaged in combat with a formidable Pal.

John 'Bucky' Buckley, Pocketpair's Communications Director and Publishing Manager, hinted at "a few little surprises" that will accompany the March update, adding an extra layer of excitement for the game's community. This news is particularly welcome for the 32 million players who have embraced Palworld since its early access release in January 2024. The studio has outlined an ambitious content roadmap for 2025, which includes not only crossplay but also an "ending scenario" and further new content for the popular creature-catching survival game.

Palworld made a splash upon its launch on Steam for $30 and simultaneously on Xbox and PC through Game Pass. It shattered sales records and set new benchmarks for concurrent player numbers. The game's explosive debut led Pocketpair's CEO, Takuro Mizobe, to admit that the studio was overwhelmed by the sheer volume of profits. In response, Pocketpair quickly moved to expand Palworld's reach, striking a deal with Sony to create Palworld Entertainment, a new venture aimed at broadening the game's intellectual property and bringing it to the PlayStation 5.

However, the game's success has not been without challenges. Nintendo and The Pokémon Company have filed a lawsuit against Pocketpair, alleging infringement on "multiple" patent rights and seeking an injunction and damages. In response, Pocketpair has adjusted the mechanics for summoning Pals within the game and is prepared to defend its position in court, stating, "We will continue to assert our position in this case through future legal proceedings."