Nintendo’s New Patent Targets Game Mechanics and Ensures No One Could Compete

In July 2024, Nintendo secured a patent from the US Patent Office that could bolster its legal actions against Pocketpair, the developer of Palworld. This patent is part of a broader application dating back to December 2021.

The patent outlines gameplay where players use items to capture characters in the field and then employ these captured characters in battles. This concept is reminiscent of mechanics found in Nintendo’s Pokémon series.

Interestingly, the patent specifies different “modes” for capturing characters, suggesting a reference to Pokémon Legends: Arceus, which emphasizes real-time capturing. Previously, Nintendo had filed legal notices against Pocketpair in Japan for similar patent issues.

With this US patent in hand, Nintendo is now positioned to extend its legal battle against Pocketpair in the United States. Palworld features gameplay where players use items to capture creatures called Pals, which can then be used in battles against other Pals or human adversaries.

One mode described in the patent involves a targeting reticule that provides details about the character being aimed at, allowing players to decide on subsequent actions.

This development follows Nintendo’s previous legal action in November, where it filed an injunction against Pocketpair, alleging infringement on three of its patents.

In response, Pocketpair has been diversifying its business. In January, the company announced its entry into game publishing, aiming to offer indie developers more economic freedom to create their desired games.

This situation highlights the ongoing tension between large gaming corporations and indie developers, especially concerning game mechanics and intellectual property rights.